Description
90mm M32 Periscope Head Stowage Box Assembly for the M48A3 Tank
Item Overview
This stowage-box assembly was used in the 90mm M48A3 tank to hold a spare removable head for the gunner’s M32 periscope. It provided a dedicated place to secure the optical head inside the turret until needed.
Identification and Features
- Parent system: 90mm Gun Tank M48A3
- Associated sight: Gunner’s M32 periscope
- Stored component: Removable M32 periscope head assembly
- Purpose: Protected onboard stowage
- Location: M48A3 turret
How It Worked
The box supported the M32 periscope’s removable-head design by keeping a spare head secured inside the tank. When replacement was required, the crew could remove the installed head, retrieve the spare from its stowage box, and attach it to the periscope body.
Application
The M32 was a gunner’s periscope used in the M48A3 tank. It combined daylight and infrared viewing systems and could be used with the tank’s xenon searchlight for observation in daylight or darkness. This box was part of the supporting turret equipment used to store the spare periscope head.
Historical Background
The M48A3 entered U.S. Army service during the 1960s as a diesel-powered modernization of earlier M48 tanks. It retained the 90mm main gun while receiving improved automotive and observation equipment. The M32 periscope and its supporting stowage equipment contributed to the tank’s ability to operate under changing light conditions.
Condition
Please check the pictures for the general condition of the item.
Ideal For
This stowage-box assembly is well suited for restoration, research, and display projects involving the M48A3 and its fire-control equipment.
- M48A3 tank restoration projects
- M32 periscope system displays
- M48 Patton equipment collections
- Cold War armored-vehicle exhibits
- Vietnam-era tank displays
- Military museums and educational collections
Approx length ", Approx width ", Approx height ", Approx weight lbs.
Pictures are stock images of our inventory. Unless otherwise noted, you will not be receiving the exact item shown in the pictures. The pictures are representative of the item’s general condition. The item you receive might be slightly better, or worse, condition than was shown in the pictures.
Please visit our page about order lead times here: Order Lead Times.