Q&A · 3:25:53-3:26:48

When tanks and warships exchanged fire

Coastal campaigns produced repeated clashes between armored vehicles, river craft, destroyers, and railway guns.

Question

Were there engagements between tanks and ships during the world wars?

Short answer

Yes; river, evacuation, and amphibious campaigns repeatedly brought tanks, trains, small craft, and destroyers into combat.

Notes

Canadian encounters with German river flotillas and destroyer actions during Dunkirk and the Normandy campaign provide examples of warships facing land forces. Tribal-class destroyers also engaged armored trains and shore batteries. River craft could carry weapons comparable to a tank gun without enjoying equivalent armor protection. Ships generally brought heavier guns to these exchanges, but geography could force naval and land weapons into direct contact.