The joking 'T-34 rule of defence' asks whether an enemy could overrun a light formation by bringing a museum T-34, or an equivalent vehicle, back into service. If so, the force has probably sacrificed too much protection and firepower. Light troops can work well at the tip of the spear when heavier equipment and reinforcements remain close behind them. An amphibious force built to carry only the light element loses that ability to respond when the opposition escalates.
Notable Point · 8:26-9:35
The T-34 rule tests when a force is too light
A joking T-34 test distinguishes a useful light spearhead from a force with too little protection or heavy support.