Could an amphibious tank successfully ambush a small ship close to shore?
Short answerOnly perhaps against a very small unarmed craft; an armed and maneuverable ship would bring far more firepower and would leave the tank at a severe disadvantage.
NotesA shore-side ambush gives an amphibious tank surprise, but surprise does not erase the mismatch in platforms. A very small unarmed vessel might be vulnerable. Against an armed ship with useful speed and maneuverability, the tank would face a much heavier and more varied weapons fit than it could carry. Littoral proximity can expose ships to land weapons without making a tank the equal of a purpose-built warship.