Notes on Oscillating Turret in Tanks

Introduction to Oscillating Turrets

Example: French AMX 13
Unique design with a split turret for rotation and elevation.
Overview of what will be covered: design, functioning, advantages, disadvantages, and flaws.

Components:
- Lower turret (rotates 360 degrees).
- Upper turret (contains the gun; pivots to elevate/depress).
The gun is fixed to the upper turret; it does not move independently.

Smaller turret ring:
- Gun breach doesn’t need to drop as far compared to conventional turrets.
- Allows for a smaller and narrower vehicle (e.g., AMX 13).
Better gun depression:
- The gun can maintain good depression angles without the breach hitting the turret ring.
Loading Efficiency:
- The loader moves with the gun, making loading more straightforward.
- Autoloader compatibility:
  - Autoloader remains aligned with the gun breach.
  - Effectively loads rounds regardless of elevation.

Vulnerability:
- Difficult to seal against elements and NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) threats.
- Crews at risk if the vehicle is exposed to gas attacks or fallout.
Height and Stability:
- Turrets tend to be taller, potentially impacting stability.
- Limited elevation due to the turret bustle hitting the engine deck.

Golden age in the 50s, 60s, and 70s.
- French innovations: AMX 13, Panhard EBR, AMX 50.
Few designs entered service despite interest.

2007: U.S. Army introduced M1128 Stryker Mobile Gun System (MGS).
- Features unmanned 105mm armed oscillating turret with auto loader.
- Issues with autoloader and high costs led to limited success.

Oscillating turrets provided unique advantages but also faced critical disadvantages.
Once relevant, now less so in modern designs due to vulnerabilities and technological advancements.
Iconic designs from the past remain notable for their space-age aesthetic.