Upsilon-0
Upsilon-0 or Upsilon-null (奧零, ′uh-ring) was an experimental steam-powered tank developed by a consortium of eight Themiclesian manufacturers in 1920. While a working prototype was produced, it was never mass-manufactured due to problems over rough terrain. It was officially abandoned in 1924.
History
The War Secretary Lord Sm′jing (澠君) observed that tanks were used to great effect during the War of Sylvan Succession and announced in 1918 a plan to procure a battalion's worth of tanks. This plan was soon accepted by the Liberal government and passed by Parliament, seeing unusually little opposition in the House of Lords.
Since its structural integrity would be suspect under enemy fire, the steam engine was situated roughly centre-rear on the tank. It raised steam with the assistance of a kerosine burner and reached operation temperatures of over 1,600°C. Since the boiler could heat up quickly to react to operational demands, the steam reservoir was relatively small. Asbestos was used to insulate the engine's from the crew. For its time, Upsilon-0 was a very powerful tank.
Companies involved
- National Railways: gearing
- Coastal Motors: engine and instrument gauges
- Tor-nêng Metals: bodywork