Additional Armour Protection on M4A2 in Pacific

I note that M4A2s in the Pacific often had wooden planks attached to the hull sides, evidently to protect against magnetic lunge mines. Photos also show certain examples fitted with steel panels to protect the tracks and running gear (similar to the German schurzen). Would the fact that these were made from steel offer a perfect surface for the magnetic charges? Assuming that they were actually metal panels, is there any evidence to suggest that they would have ben painted in the tank’s base colour, or simply left unpainted?

Paul

4 Likes

As this was an Army unit, I am pretty sure it’s a M4A3 and designated as a flame tank. I have seen this photo attributed as being on Okinawa. The steel was probably painted OD.

2 Likes