The Winter War and the early years of World War II were marked by several famous tank battles that showcased the power and resilience of armored warfare. One of the earliest and most notable was the Battle of Kollaa, which took place during the Winter War between Finland and the Soviet Union. The battle was a series of clashes between Finnish infantry and Soviet tanks, with the Finns emerging victorious despite being outnumbered.

Another significant tank battle during this period was the Battle of Tolvajärvi, where Finnish forces successfully repelled a Soviet tank attack using guerrilla tactics and mobility. This battle demonstrated that even against overwhelming odds, determined and well-trained troops could hold off enemy tanks.

As World War II escalated, the conflict spread to Asia, with Japan invading China in 1937. The first large-scale Chinese counter-offensive operation was launched in Changsha during this period, featuring a mix of infantry, artillery, and tanks. Although the Japanese ultimately gained control of the city, the battle marked an important turning point in the war.

In Europe, the Soviet invasion of Poland in September 1939 led to several significant tank battles. The Battle of Lwów, Wilno, Grodno, Szack, and Wytyczno were all major clashes between Polish and Soviet forces, with the Soviets ultimately emerging victorious. However, these battles demonstrated the effectiveness of Polish armor against Soviet tanks.

The invasion of Poland was followed by Germany's invasion of France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Denmark in May 1940. The Battle of the Bzura, Mława, Tomaszów Lubelski, Kock, and Siege of Warsaw were all significant tank battles fought during this period, with German forces ultimately gaining control of Western Europe.

These early tank battles set the stage for the more famous conflicts that would follow in North Africa, Italy, and the Soviet Union. They demonstrated the power of armor on the modern battlefield and the importance of mobility, firepower, and tactics in tank warfare.

Famous tank battles of ww2