T-34/85 brick tank model - COBI 2542 - 668 bricks

The T-34/85 was a significant upgrade of the Soviet T-34 tank, introduced during World War II to counter the advanced German armour. The original T-34, with its powerful 76.2 mm gun and innovative sloped armour, had already proven highly effective. However, by 1943, it struggled against the newer German tanks like the Panther and Tiger.

In response, Soviet engineers developed the T-34/85, which featured an 85 mm ZiS-S-53 gun, offering much-improved firepower. The new tank's turret was larger and could accommodate three crew members, improving combat efficiency. It entered production in early 1944 and was rapidly deployed to the front lines.

The T-34/85 played a crucial role in the latter stages of the war, particularly in the Red Army's advance into Eastern Europe and Germany. Its combination of mobility, protection, and firepower made it one of the most effective and influential tanks of World War II. Post-war, the T-34/85 saw widespread use, influencing tank design globally and serving in numerous conflicts during the mid-20th century.