Forsvarsvogn "Troll" m/37

== Norway's First "Heavy Tank" ==
The Forsvarsvogn "Troll" m/37 was a heavy tank developed by Norway during World War II. Despite its impressive size and stature, it was soon found to be lacking in both protection and armament. Although it saw several victories against smaller German and Swedish tanks in the early years of the war, it was soon outmatched in speed and weaponry by newer Axis tanks.
=== Command Tank ===
It was quickly realized that the Forsvarsvogn was best suited as a command tank and was often used to lead tank squadrons in training. Its machine guns on the front and back made it well-suited for urban combat, and the tank also had great visibility, with the driver having the same port as the Panservogn m/35. With side views in the hull as well, it was considered a good option for command.
=== Early Years of the War ===
In the early years of the war, the "Troll" was effective in the Norwegian towns and played a big role in the Battle for Oslo. Its 55mm gun was able to penetrate the lightly armored German Panzer I and II tanks. Its role as a command vehicle helped the fresh Norwegian tank crews as well as infantry in the heat of battle, allowing them to become battle-hardened faster.
=== Issues Later in the War ===
As the war progressed, it became clear that the "Troll" was outdated. Its armor could not stand up to modern standards, and it was decided to develop a replacement. In 1943, the Forsvarsvogn "Fleischer" m/43 was developed and became the standard command tank for the Norwegian army for the rest of the war.
=== The Last Troll ===
Up until 1975, it was believed that all "Trolls" had been destroyed, even the ones that had survived the war had been scrapped. However, one was discovered at the bottom of the Mjøsa lake. Many military officials pushed for the relic tank to be pulled out and in July of 1976, it finally was. Now called the Last "Troll," it was number 36 in the production line. After this, it was theorized that it was crossing the frozen lake and fell through the ice. In 1977, the tank had a full restoration and is now on display at the Norwegian Armored Heritage Museum.
== Illustrations of various Fv m/37's ==
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Category:Kampvogn
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