The Reality of Multi-Day Deployments for Main Battle Tank Crews

Main battle tanks (MBTs) are designed with combat effectiveness in mind, and their interiors are generally quite limited. However, many modern MBTs incorporate features to help crews manage fatigue during multi-day deployments. This article explores how these tanks accommodate crew needs, including comfort, sleeping arrangements, food and water, and environmental control.

Crew Comfort

While tanks are not designed for long-term habitation, some models do include seated areas that offer reasonable comfort during extended periods. The interior layout often allows for limited movement, which can help crews stay somewhat comfortable. Modern tanks may also have climate control systems to manage temperature, which can be crucial for helping crews stay alert and comfortable in various weather conditions.

Sleeping Arrangements

Crews on multi-day deployments must often take turns sleeping in shifts. Some tanks may have space for a crew member to lie down briefly, but this is rarely suitable for long-term rest. In many cases, soldiers will sleep outside the tank or in nearby vehicles. During field exercises and deployments, the lack of comfortable sleeping arrangements leads to creative solutions. Tankers often sleep on the back deck of the tank, with the turret either positioned over the side or over the back of the tank. If it's hot outside, they avoid sleeping on the back deck as the heat from the engine rises up. In colder weather, a sleeping pad on the back deck with a sleeping bag can provide warmth from the engine's residual heat. In rainy conditions, the turret can be positioned over the back deck, and a poncho can be draped over the main gun to create a makeshift shelter.

Food and Water

Tanks usually carry limited rations and water, with crews often eating packaged meals like Meals Ready-to-Eat (MREs) and consuming them while on the move or during brief stops. Tanks might have some storage for snacks and hydration, but full meal preparation is not feasible. During field exercises and deployments, tankers may consume hot meals directly from the tank, with the 1SG (First Sergeant) bringing food right up to the tank. This makes it easy to carry multiple days' worth of food and water using bussle racks, which wrap around the sides and back of the turret.

Operational Doctrine

Tactical operations often include planned stops for maintenance, refueling, and rest, which provide opportunities for crews to disembark and rest properly. Overall, while MBTs offer some basic accommodations for crew comfort, they are not equipped for prolonged living conditions. Extended deployments necessitate logistical support from other vehicles and units to ensure crew well-being and operational readiness.

H2: The Tank as a Floating Island

During field exercises and deployments, tankers often live on their tanks for long periods. In some training areas, the ground can be extremely muddy, making the tank a sort of floating island. Hot meals are often brought to the tank, eliminating the need for crews to dismount for meals. The bussle racks around the tank provide ample storage for food and water, allowing crews to carry multiple days' worth of supplies. In hot weather, the turret can be positioned over the back deck, and the heat from the engine can help keep the tank warm. In rainy conditions, a poncho can be draped over the main gun to create a shelter.

Staying Fresh

Staying fresh is more challenging. Extended time on the tank leads to dirt and grime, with grease, hydraulic fluid, and gunpowder residue accumulating. Rubbing down with baby wipes helps address this issue, but it remains a continuous challenge. Crews often feel grimy after several days, which can affect their alertness and overall well-being.