A4E12 Amphibious Light Tank

A4E11, A4E12/L1E1, L1E2
Vickers Light Amphibious Tanks

From 1930 to 1931, Vickers conducted experiments with the construction of a small lightweight amphibious reconnaissance tank designed by Captain Vivian Loyd. It was more of a tank than a light tank and both prototypes marked as A4E11 a A4E12 (also known as L1E1 and L1E2) were handed over to the research department of the Ministry of War for assessment, it showed only a brief interest and at the end of 1931 the vehicles refused to include in service. However, it issued a permit for sale abroad, where machines were sold in the A4E12 version.

The USSR signed a contract on February 5, 1932 for the production and delivery of 8 pieces of this vehicle, on the basis of which its own types were developed T-33, T-41, T-37 a T-38 the last two got into service and were mass-produced (about 4000 pieces of all versions). Ivo Pejčoch states the delivery of only one piece to the USSR. In the fall of 1933, Thailand purchased 2 tanks of this version. Between 1933 and 1934, China purchased 29 vehicles. In 1936, the Dutch East Indies bought 2 tanks. Japan, Poland and Finland also showed interest in them.

Poland bought at least 1 tank in 1932, along with another chassis modified into a light artillery tractor, demonstrated to selected persons on October 25, 1932 in Rembertov. Testing of the tank began on October 8, 1932 on the Vistula in the area of the Modlin Military Yacht Club. The tank became a model on the basis of which a domestic amphibious tank was developed PZInž. 130. The purchase of another 5 (later only 3) pieces was considered, but the trade was not due to lack of funds (embezzlement?).

Swimming on the surface was supported by balsa floats above the belts and the propulsion was solved by a propeller. Steering was achieved using the rudder. However, their weak armor made them too resistant vehicles.

Prototypes:
A4E11 - T985 MT 9779
A4E12 - T986 MT 9780