Tanks: The Future of Warfare

Tank development showed French innovation overcoming institutional resistance. General Jean Baptiste Estienne, visiting Britain in 1915, recognized tracked vehicles' potential. Despite General Staff skepticism, he promoted tank development with messianic fervor.

The first French tanks—Schneider CA1 and Saint-Chamond—reflected transitional thinking. Essentially armored boxes on tractor chassis, they proved vulnerable and mechanically unreliable. Their debut at Berry-au-Bac in April 1917 was catastrophic—76 of 132 tanks were destroyed or disabled.

The Renault FT revolutionized tank design. Light, maneuverable, with rotating turret and rear engine, it established the modern tank configuration. Louis Renault personally supervised development, simplifying design for mass production. Unlike heavy British tanks requiring eight-man crews, the FT operated with two men—driver and commander/gunner.

Production statistics revealed French industrial capacity. From first prototype in 1917 to armistice, France produced 3,177 FT tanks. American forces used French tanks exclusively, recognizing their superiority. The FT's influence extended decades—most World War II tanks followed its basic layout.

Tank tactics evolved through bloody experience. Initial employment as mobile pillboxes supporting infantry failed catastrophically. French theorists developed combined-arms tactics—tanks, infantry, artillery, and aircraft cooperating. The Battle of Soissons in July 1918 demonstrated mature tank tactics, with 350 FTs breaking German lines.