Landsverk L-120

The L-120 tank was a Swedish prototype tank that was purchased in 1937 to compare its suspension with that of the Panservogn m/35, to determine if it was superior or inferior. The results of the test led to the development of the Panservogn m/39.

### Interwar period

During the interwar period, the L-120 tanks were mainly used for driver training at Fornebu Airport, equipped with Colt M/29 Førermitraljøse MG's for training purposes instead of large cannons. However, in 1939, there was a motion to remove the turrets and mount Kongsberg 37mm Stridsvognkanon (B) that were in storage at Fornebu. This plan was developed and completed the week before the start of World War II in Norway.

### Upgrades

In 1938, the tanks were upgraded with the more reliable Armstrong Monarch V-8 engine, though the speed remained the same to ensure reliability.

### Mobilization and the Battle of Oslo

As tensions in Europe increased, the L-120 tanks were moved. L-120 I (PV-01) was moved to Oslo and manned by newly trained tank crew, while L-120 II (PV-02) was moved to Narvik. On April 9th, Germany invaded Norway, and the first battle was the Battle of Oslo.

L-120 I (PV-01) saw limited use in the early days of the battle, but was later moved to more combat-heavy positions and was used to fire at enemy armored vehicles. On April 11th, the tragic death of King Håkon VII occurred, inspiring a wave of patriotism in the Norwegian army. As a result, both L-120 tanks were given names, PV-01 was named "Kongestanken" and PV-02 was named "Norgestanken," as a tribute to the royal and Norwegian spirit. The next day, the crew of PV-01 destroyed two German Panzer I's and one Panser II, earning them the Norwegian Tank Badge (Panservognmerket) in the rank of Silver, the first time this medal was awarded in wartime. However, as the battle came to a close, PV-01 was abandoned and its gun was destroyed. The crew was later assigned to a Panservogn m/39 and was given permission to continue using the name "Kongestanken." The current whereabouts of PV-01 are unknown.

### Service in Narvik and fate of the tanks

In the Battle for Narvik, PV-02, also known as "Norgestanken," saw extensive action. The crew of PV-02 were among the first to engage the German forces as they disembarked from their ships in Narvik, and they were able to provide suppressive fire on the German troops. They were known for their bravery and determination, and their actions helped to slow down the German advance and buy valuable time for the Norwegian army to mobilize and reinforce their positions. The crew of PV-02 were also responsible for taking out several German troops, which helped to reduce the enemy's firepower and make it easier for the Norwegian troops to push back the German forces. Despite the heavy fighting and the odds being against them, PV-02 and its crew managed to survive the battle and the crew was given the Norwegian Tank Badge (Panservognmerket) in the rank of bronze.

The tank is now on permanent display at the Norwegian Armored Heritige Museum. It is still in running order and is used driven out on to the track every year to commemorate the Battle for Narvik.

### Name tradition

The name tradition of "Kongestanken" and "Norgestanken" became a special name only given to tanks after the previous had either fallen or needed to be replaced. Many tanks has carried the name since. These tanks would also be used in parades.