The Char B1 bis was the most formidable French tank to fight in World War II. While later designs like the ARL 44 were heavier and better armed, they did not enter service until after the war ended. In 1940, the Char B1 bis stood out for its heavy armor and unique dual-gun configuration.
Armor and firepower
The Char B1 bis weighed about 31.5 tons. Its armor was 60mm thick on the front and turret. This protection was effective against the standard German 37mm Pak 36 anti-tank gun used in 1940. Most German shells bounced off or failed to penetrate the hull at typical combat ranges.
The tank carried two main guns. The turret mounted a 47mm SA 35 high-velocity gun, which could destroy early German Panzer III and IV tanks. The hull held a 75mm short-barreled gun, primarily for firing high-explosive shells at fortifications and infantry. This combination gave the tank flexibility, though it complicated operation.
Operational performance in 1940
During the Battle of France, the Char B1 bis performed well in isolated engagements. There are documented cases where these tanks absorbed dozens of hits without catastrophic failure. Captain Pierre Billotte’s tank in the Eure sector is a notable example, engaging multiple German units while remaining operational. The mechanical reliability was generally good, though the transmission was complex and required careful maintenance.
Limitations of the design
The biggest weakness was the single-man turret. The commander had to aim, fire, and load the 47mm gun while also spotting targets and commanding the vehicle. This cognitive overload reduced reaction time in fast-moving battles. German tanks often had two or three crew members in the turret, allowing for quicker target acquisition and tracking. This doctrinal flaw negated much of the Char B1 bis’s technical superiority in open maneuver warfare.
Comparison with other French tanks
The Somua S35 was a medium cavalry tank. It was faster and more agile than the Char B1 bis, with 47mm armor and the same 47mm gun. It was a strong vehicle but lacked the heavy armor and secondary firepower of the B1 bis. The ARL 44, developed after the liberation, weighed nearly 48 tons and carried a 90mm gun. However, it used obsolete running gear from the Char B and was not available during the actual conflict.
Technical specifications
| Feature | Char B1 bis | Somua S35 | ARL 44 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 31.5 tons | 20 tons | 48 tons |
| Max Armor | 60 mm | 47 mm | 80 mm |
| Main Gun | 47mm / 75mm | 47mm | 90mm |
| Speed | 20 km/h | 40 km/h | 30 km/h |
The Char B1 bis remains the peak of French armored strength during the war. Its combination of armor and firepower made it a formidable opponent for the Wehrmacht in 1940, despite its operational limitations.