25MM Hotchkiss Antitank Gun

France, 1934-1954

     

The Hotchkiss 25mm AT gun was France’s main AT gun during the Fall of France (1940). Compared to other contemporary AT guns, the gun had a rather small calibre (25mm) as opposed to the more common 37mm. The shell had a very high velocity and could penetrate a flat 40mm plate at 500 meters, which was comparable to other guns of the era. The breach was semi-automatic – meaning it opened, closed, and ejected the shell casings on its own – which allowed for a fast rate of fire. The gun was also used on armored cars and some light tanks, in a modified form.

In combat the 25mm Hotchkiss was effective, but sometimes had trouble with the heavier Panzer III and IV tanks, especially at the extent of its range. The small size of the round also created problems due to its lack of damage. Oftentimes enemy vehicles would be hit and knocked out, but still repairable, meaning they could be quickly returned to service. Due to this weakness, the Hotchkiss often worked with other weapons, like larger AT guns or mines in order to maximize its efficiency.