The War Heritage Institute’s Sherman M4A3E2 Assault Tank – or ‘Jumbo’ – will be taking to The Tank Museum’s arena for TANKFEST 2026, 26-28 June 2026.
The Sherman Jumbo was an armoured assault variant of the base Sherman tank, designed to lead assaults against heavily defended positions. Originally intended to break through the Siegfried Line, the Jumbo entered service with the 1st US Army on 14 October 1944, shortly after the line was crossed.
Only 254 Jumbos were produced, with just 9 examples remaining worldwide – 2 of which are in Europe. This specific Jumbo is preserved at Bastogne Barracks, a site belonging to the War Heritage Institute. It has been in running condition since 2019 and still features its original 75mm gun.
The War Heritage Institute’s Jumbo is currently displayed in the same markings as the famous Cobra King “First in Bastogne”, which is currently housed in the United States. Cobra King famously broke the German encirclement of Bastogne on 26 December 1944, during the Battle of the Bulge.
Director of Marketing and Engagement, Nik Wyness, said: “It’s the first time we have ever been able to display a Jumbo at TANKFEST – so we’re looking forward to seeing it in action alongside our unique display of World War Two armour.”
“A big thank you to the War Heritage Institute for bringing this rare vehicle across the Channel to the Museum, enabling us to showcase it to tank fans from across the globe.”
TANKFEST 2026 is expected to attract over 20,000 visitors from around the world, with three full days of live tank displays, mock battles, living history encampments and more.
The Jumbo will join the existing line-up of guest armour including the Nashorn, Leopard 2A4, Mark IV Female and Whippet.
Saturday TANKFEST tickets are sold out, with Friday and Sunday tickets selling fast. Pre-booking is essential.
