Your Name in Our Guide to Comet!

The Tank Museum Guide to the A34 Comet, a brand-new publication with over 300 photographs and illustrations, is available for pre-order now at a special price of £20. Order yours by 16 June to get your name in the acknowledgments section of the book.

The A34 Comet was probably the most capable British tank of the Second World War. Developed from the A27 Cromwell, it entered service in early 1945 and saw action in the closing stages of the war during the advance into Germany.

Powered by the 600hp Rolls-Royce Meteor V12 petrol engine and armed with a high velocity 77mm gun, the Comet was fast, reliable, and powerful, and was the Western Allies’ first tank that was truly a match for the German Tiger and Panther.

Black and white photograph of a tank.
The first production Comet seen at Lulworth, September 1944.

Through this exclusive guide, military historian Lieutenant Colonel Dick Taylor RTR (Retd) tells the story of the Comet, from its design and development, construction and powerplant, to its armament and armour.

Black and white photograph of a manned tank, in front of ruined buildings.
Comets of 2nd Fife & Forfar Yeomanry driving through Germany, March 1945.

Research Co-ordinator, James Donaldson said:

“We are delighted to launch The Tank Museum Guide to A34 Comet, the first book to be published taking a proper, in-depth look at this tank.

“The reader will get a full breakdown of the Comet, from its development and use during the Second World War, through to its post-war service, as well as a deep-dive into a couple of the Museum’s examples; it features a comprehensive selection of more than 300 photographs and illustrations, including many not seen before in print.”

The Tank Museum Guide to the A34 Comet will go on general sale for £30 in early September 2025.

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