The Tank Museum’s ambition to return King Tiger V2 to running condition is now within reach, thanks to the loan of an engine and gearbox from Arsenalen and the Swedish Army Museum.
The historic agreement will see an original King Tiger engine and gearbox shipped to The Tank Museum, where it will be used to complete the King Tiger V2 restoration project.
“These components are obviously crucial if we are to realise our ambition to return King Tiger V2 to running condition,” said Museum CEO Chris Price
“Exactly how this tank would be powered was a question to which we didn’t have an answer when we announced the project a year ago. To say that these items are rare and highly prized would be something of an understatement – it’s one of the handful we know to exist today.”
The engine and gearbox are currently on display at Arsenalen, the Swedish Tank Museum – but the items belong to the Swedish Army Museum.
The news will delight enthusiasts, who have donated almost half a million pounds over the last 12 months to see the wartime heavy tank brought back to life.
“This is the news our supporters have been waiting for: the announcement that proves we can turn our ambition into reality – and we would like to acknowledge the generosity of the Swedish Army Museum and Arsenalen for their cooperation in making this happen” he added.
The drivetrain is all that survives of a King Tiger tank that had been obtained by the Swedish government from the French after World War Two.
Stefan Karlsson, Director of Arsenalen said; “This loan highlights the close international relationship between leading military museums.
“We’re proud to be able to support our friends and partners in the UK, and we wish them every success with their project.”
The Tank Museum will shortly be publishing a YouTube video on the story behind the “Swedish King Tiger”.
And subscribers to The Tank Museum Workshop YouTube channel will be able to find out more about the components – which will need to be fully overhauled before installation.
