Thann France 6 August 1944
During World War II, one of the most significant specialized vehicles was the mineclearing tank. A prime example of such a vehicle was the Sherman Crab, which was developed by the British and used extensively in France in 1944. Built on the Sherman V platform, the Crab was able to retain the full armament capability of its predecessor while incorporating a unique mechanism for detonating pressure mines. This mechanism consisted of a whirling arrangement of flails that would safely detonate any mines located in front of the tank, allowing the vehicle to move forward without triggering any explosive devices. The Crab proved to be a highly effective tool in the Allied forces’ efforts to clear mines and other obstacles from the path of advancing troops.