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 boiler 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. Upsilon-0 did not suffer from a shortage of power, though compared to imported alternatives the interior was overly cramped; additionally, many crew members found the idea of working with a steam engine in such proximity objectionable.
In early 1924, the Tank Corps reported that alternatives were superior to the Upsilon-0 and proposed its annulment to the Ministry of War. The four prototypes produced were scrapped in 1925.
Companies involved
- National Railways: gearing
- Coastal Motors: engine and instrument gauges
- Tor-nêng Metals: bodywork