The Matilda II tank was ready just in time to join the fight when World War 2 broke out and became the only British tank to serve throughout the entire conflict. The imposing model was conceptualized in the mid-1930s as the Nazi threat became more prevalent. And even though it was somewhat limited in armament and speed, the Matildas soon gained legendary status because of their heavy and impenetrable armor. They especially made a mark in the North African theater, where they wreaked implacable h