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Tank classification is a taxonomy of identifying either the intended role or weight class of tanks. The classification by role was used primarily during the developmental stage of the national armoured forces, and referred to the doctrinal and force structure utility of the tanks based on design emphasis. The weight classification is used in the same way truck classification is used, and is intended to accommodate logistic requirements of the tanks. Many classification systems have been used over the nearly one hundred years of tank history. An early division in the definition of roles was between Infantry tanks intended to focus on supporting infantry in the assault, and cruiser tanks intended for classic cavalry missions of exploitation, screening and reconnaissance. As World War II progressed, the separation of "infantry" and "cruiser" roles generally disappeared and the "universal tank" started to take over. Classification has always been determined by the prevailing theories of armoured warfare, which have been altered in turn by rapid advances in technology. No one classification system works across all periods or all nations; in particular, weight-based classification was inconsistent between countries and eras. The weight classification system has been eliminated due to the world-wide adoption of the main battle tank. Modern tank designs favour a modular universal design eliminating these sorts of classifications from modern terminology. All main battle tanks are typically armed with weapons with similar characteristics but some may be armoured more than others. ==Size== Tanks are often referred to by weight-based or role-based classification, such as 'light', 'medium' or 'heavy'. There were many names given to different tank types, and similar names did not assure similar design goals. Some light tanks were relatively slow, and some were fast. Some heavy tanks had large-calibre, low-velocity, anti-infantry bunker-busters, and some had high-velocity anti-tank guns. Furthermore, expected weights for a given tank type vary over time; a medium tank of 1939 could weigh less than a light tank of 1945. Light, medium, and heavy have other meanings than just weight, e.g., relating to gun size, the amount of armour, and, most importantly, tactical role. In 1948 France, Canada, and the United States agreed to classify tanks as light gun, medium gun, or heavy gun. This lasted until 1957, when the Fourth Tripartite Armour Conference recommended to replace medium and heavy tanks with a single class — Main Battle Tanks.〔 (p.123 )〕 After World War II, less expensive armoured cars and more specialised tracked vehicles gradually took over the roles of light tanks. Heavy tanks were shown to be incapable of keeping up with mobile warfare, but advances in engine, weapon, and armour technology allowed medium tanks to acquire the best characteristics of heavy tanks—the ultimate in mobility, firepower, and protection were rolled into the main battle tank (MBT). 抄文引用元・出典: フリー百科事典『 ウィキペディア（Wikipedia）』 ■ウィキペディアで「Tank classification」の詳細全文を読む スポンサード リンク
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