M24 Chaffee Light Tank

The vehicle's relatively thin armour was the price paid for this combination of speed and firepower. This was considered an acceptable compromise for a tank primarily intended for reconnaissance and scouting duties. Entering the European theatre in late 1944, the M24 proved capable in both American and British service, although it was never deployed in the enormous numbers achieved by the Stuart series.

The Chaffee's service life extended well beyond the Second World War. After the conflict, the M24 became an important export tank and was operated by dozens of nations. Its remarkable longevity is illustrated by Uruguay, which did not retire its Chaffees until 2018.

On the Bolt Action tabletop, the M24 Chaffee gives US and British commanders access to mobile firepower at a relatively modest cost. Its Medium Anti-Tank Gun provides a serious threat, while the Fast and Recce special rules allow the tank to exploit its mobility, seek favourable positions and avoid unnecessary exposure.

That speed should not encourage reckless engagements, however. The Chaffee remains a light tank, and its thinner armour leaves it vulnerable to virtually any heavy weapon capable of getting a clear shot. Used carefully, its mobility becomes its greatest asset.

• M24 Chaffee Light Tank
• 75mm Medium Anti-Tank Gun
• Fast and Recce special rules
• Miniature sculpted by Italeri
• Studio miniature painted by Darek Wyrozebski
• Model supplied unpainted