One of the primary tanks of the United Kingdom during World War II, the Cruiser Tank VI Crusader was perhaps the most important British tank of the North African Campaign. Over 5300 were built.
After deeming that the Covenanter was to light to be suitable as a combat tank, the decision was made to create a slightly larger, heavier version. This new tank was given the number A15 and was designed by Nuffield.
Though it was faster then nearly all tanks it oppossed, it's light 2-pounder gun, thin armor and mechanical problems gave it a fairly poor reputation. The tank first saw combat during Operation Battleaxe and played a crucial role in the following Operation Crusader which was named after it.
After the completion of the North African Campaign, the availability of better tanks such as the Sherman and Cromwell relegated the Crusader to secondary duties such as anti-aircraft or gun tractoring. In these roles it served for the remainder of the war.
Variants
Crusader I
The Crusader I was essentially a heavier version of the Covenanter. Differing from its predecessor the tank had thicker armor, an auxillary turret which hosted a Besa machine gun, and an extra set of road wheels to support the additional weight
Crusader II
The Crusader II saw an increase in frontal armor and removal of the auxillary turret.
Crusader III
Due to delays with the Cavalier, the Crusader was upgunned with the 6-pounder, the first British tank to mount the gun. The commander had to also serve as the loader due to the larger gun restricting restricting the crew from four to three. The Crusader III was ready by May 1942 and first saw action in the First Battle of El Alamein.
Crusader II Gun Tractor Mk I
A turretless version of the tank, it was used to tow 17-pounder anti-tank guns.
Crusader III AA Mk I
The 6-pdr was replaced with a Bofors 40mm anti-aircraft gun.
Crusader III AA Mk II
A Crusader armed with twin Oerlikon anti-aircraft guns. There was also an AA Mk III, which only differed from the AA Mk II by the position of the radio, and a variation with triple Oerlikons that was produced in very limited quantities due to Allied air superiority.