The IS-3 is a Soviet heavy tank developed in late 1944 as an improvement over the IS-2. It features a distinctive semi-hemispherical cast turret and a pointed "pike nose" hull design, which became iconic for post-war Soviet tanks. The tank weighs about 46 tons, has a crew of four, and is armed with a 122mm D-25T main gun along with secondary machine guns. It has a V-12 diesel engine producing 520 hp, giving it a maximum speed of around 37-40 km/h and an operational range of approximately 150-340 km depending on fuel configuration
. Although it was produced too late to see combat in World War II, the IS-3 was showcased in the 1945 Berlin Victory Parade and later saw limited action in conflicts such as the Soviet invasion of Hungary, the Six-Day War, and the Yom Kippur War. Its design influenced many subsequent Soviet tanks and even Western tank development, as its appearance caused concern among Western Allies
. The IS-3’s low-profile turret improved protection but limited internal space and gun depression, making hull-down tactics more difficult. Its armor layout and design innovations made it a formidable heavy tank of its era, though it was eventually replaced by newer designs and the shift toward main battle tanks led to the decline of heavy tanks like the IS-3
. In summary, the IS-3 is a historically significant Soviet heavy tank known for its unique design, powerful armament, and influence on tank development during and after World War II
