Churchill's sponsorship is presented as one of his more defensible First World War initiatives. His enthusiasm helped overcome resistance and persuade the Ministry of Munitions to support tank development. Admiralty specialists contributed expertise in armour plating. Major Stern, a businessman and former Royal Naval Air Service officer, managed the work of getting the vehicles built, while Colonel Swinton and others supplied further expertise. The opening assessment distinguishes Churchill's political backing from the technical and administrative work needed to produce the tank.
Chapter · 0:04-1:03
Churchill's support for tank development
Churchill receives particular credit for championing the tank, while Admiralty specialists, Major Stern and Colonel Swinton contributed to its development.