In early 1942, Stalin decided for purely propagandistic reasons to aid the allied war effort in Africa by sending some tanks.
Deeming the T-34 too valuable, the KV-1 was chosen and 10 tanks along with drivers, technicians and Political Commissars were sent across the Caspian Sea, down the railways of the Persian Corridor, reaching Alexandria by ship in late August 1942.
The British eliminated the rear turret machine gun to make room for a british radio set and added sand shields, tools and stowage boxes.
Eight KV-1 took part in the 2nd battle of El Alamein, where their 76,2mm gun proved effective.
While 3 were lost to mines and german 88mm Flak guns, the others soon broke down due to overheated engines and sand-clogged air filters.
None reached Tunis.
Mysteriously, none of the soviet citizens returned to the Soviet Union.
girlpainter57
an intriguing and enjoyable account
Tommy Gunn
And thanks for the history lesson, too.