The Art Of Tank Warfare - Chris Keeling

TANK AGAINST INFANTRY
30
Although modern tanks were designed mainly with the goal of eliminating enemy armored forces, they are
often used to provide direct support to advancing infantry, especially when they are forced to cross open
ground or fight against fortified enemy positions. This is one of the gravest situations an armored unit can
face, as it is likely to expose the slow-moving tank to the many types of antitank defences. Most importantly,
tankers must not let themselves get separated from their supporting infantry, become bogged down in small
fights against local infantry units, or be pushed or lured into an antitank ambush. Particularly in areas with
limited visibility, such as in heavy woods or built-up areas, tanks must keep a sharp lookout for traps.
Overruns and close assaults. Although these two events are similar in nature, they often come about due to
two completely different events. An overrun occurs when a tank is used to assault enemy infantry. This is a
very dangerous tactic, and should only be attempted in the gravest emergencies when infantry support is not
available. The tank must remain buttoned up, move quickly among the enemy infantry, fire the
machineguns without stopping, and quickly move out of the area before the infantry can recover their wits
and conduct a close assault. The close assault may result from a botched overrun, or it may take place when
an infantry unit attacks from a concealed position in close terrain (such as woods or buildings). In this case,
it is the infantry who are assaulting the tank with grenades, mines, and light antitank weapons. Since the
tank is very vulnerable to a close assault, it is imperative that it break from the engagement and reposition
immediately if possible. This may take the form of charging forward. This may, however, result in the vehicle
running into another antitank position and becoming trapped. It is often better to retreat to a nearby open
area and either wait for the infantry to advance to your position, or bypass the difficult terrain and engage
the enemy infantry with direct fire or artillery or air support, while at range. Smoke and artillery can also be
used to distract and destroy the infantry, as well as providing cover while the exposed tank retreats.