Soviet KV-1 Heavy Tank Abandoned in Crater from Explosion — 1941

July 23, 2025 - Reading time: 6 minutes

A Soviet KV-1 heavy tank abandoned in a crater after a Luftwaffe airstrike in 1941, symbolizing early Soviet losses during the Nazi invasion.

This striking image shows a Soviet KV-1 heavy tank, abandoned in a crater caused by a massive explosion during the early days of the German invasion in 1941. The KV-1, one of the most powerful tanks in the Red Army's arsenal at the time, was struck by a 250-500kg air bomb that likely detonated directly in front of the advancing vehicle. The shockwave from the explosion may have caused the crew to be stunned or disoriented, preventing them from reacting quickly enough. The tank then drove into the crater, eventually becoming trapped in the soft soil.

The KV-1 was a symbol of Soviet strength, but even its formidable armor could not protect it from the air superiority of the Luftwaffe. As the Red Army began to retreat, it became increasingly difficult to recover such valuable equipment under the pressure of the German advance. This tank, like many others, was abandoned and left behind as part of the brutal early losses during the Nazi invasion.

This photograph highlights the heavy losses experienced by the Soviet forces in 1941, but also serves as a reminder of the Red Army's resilience. The KV-1 was later replaced by more advanced models, continuing the Soviet push to regain ground against the Wehrmacht.

Technical photo data:
📝 Source of information: Unknown
📍 Location: USSR
📅 Date of photo: 1941
📷 Photographer: Unknown

• KV-1 heavy tank

• Soviet armor 1941

• Soviet tank losses

• Luftwaffe bombings

• German invasion USSR

• Soviet tank destruction

• Nazi air raids

• Soviet tank recovery

• Red Army retreat

• Soviet armor 1941-1942

• Soviet war effort

• Wehrmacht invasion