M4A1(76)W VVSS Sherman & Willys Jeep
The designation M4A1 was applied to the M4 Sherman series which used a one piece cast hull with it's distinctive round shape. The M4A1 was upgunned with a 76mm M1 high velocity gun and a T23 turret. The tank also had wet storage protection for the ammunition hence the "W". By the start of WWII the US Army had a need for light cross country and reconnaissance vehicle. Willys won the contract although later on Ford were contracted to produce the Jeep as Willys could not keep pace with demand.