Note 1: Availability does not equal number produced during the year. How to calculate: Number available on Jan 1 of a given year = number available on Jan 1 of the preceding year + number received in the preceding year – number loss in the preceding year.  See either ‘Data” or ‘Transposed Data” downloads below for actual data.

Note 2: 1941 availability numbers are as of the eve of the German invasion, June 22, 1941. All other availability numbers were as of January 1 of each of the following years.

Heavy Tanks

The Soviet Union developed and produced a series of heavy tanks that played a crucial role in the outcome of the conflict. Here’s a brief overview of the evolution of Soviet heavy tanks during the war:

KV-1:

The KV-1 was a heavy tank that was introduced in 1939. It was heavily armored and armed with a 76.2mm gun. However, it was slow and difficult to maneuver, which limited its effectiveness on the battlefield.

KV-1S:

The KV-1S was a lighter and more maneuverable version of the KV-1 that was introduced in 1942. It had thinner armor than the original KV-1, but was faster and more agile, making it more effective in combat.

KV-85:

The KV-85 was a variant of the KV-1S that was armed with an 85mm gun. It was introduced in 1943 and saw limited use in combat.

IS-1/IS-2:

The IS-1 (also known as the IS-85) and IS-2 were heavy tanks that were introduced in 1943 and 1944, respectively. They were heavily armored and armed with an 85 mm and 122mm guns respectively, making them highly effective in combat. They were also faster and more maneuverable than earlier Soviet heavy tanks, which improved their tactical flexibility. The IS-1 was produced in limited numbers, with only around 100 tanks built before it was replaced by the more advanced IS-2 tank. The Battle of Kursk in July 1943 saw the first deployment of the IS-2 heavy tank. The tanks were used to great effect, with their heavy armor and powerful guns helping to stop the German advance.

IS-3:

The IS-3 was a heavy tank that was introduced in 1945, towards the end of the war. It was heavily armored and armed with a 122mm gun, like the IS-2, but had a lower profile and more sloped armor, which made it more difficult to hit.

Usage

The IS-2 and IS-3 heavy tanks of the Soviet Union were designed to counter the German heavy tanks of the time, such as the Tiger I and II, and the Panther. Both the IS-2 and IS-3 had heavy armor that was thicker and more sloped than that of the German heavy tank making them more difficult to penetrate from enemy fire.

Operation Bagration, the Soviet offensive in Belarus in the summer of 1944 saw the widespread deployment of the IS-2 and KV-1 heavy tanks along with many other tank models. They played a key role in breaking through German lines and driving the enemy back especially by dealing with heavily fortified German positions. The heavy armor and powerful guns of these tanks allowed them to withstand enemy fire and destroy enemy tanks and fortifications with greater ease than the medium and light tanks.

Overall, the evolution of Soviet heavy tanks during World War II was characterized by a focus on heavy armor and firepower, as well as improvements in mobility and maneuverability. The IS-2 and IS-3 in particular were highly effective heavy tanks that played a crucial role in the Soviet Union’s eventual victory over Nazi Germany.

Soviet Armored Vehicles Availability 1941-45 Chart Data

The above graph can be downloaded as an image.  

To download the data shown below from which the graph was developed click on the icon below corresponding to you desired format. Note: to ensure all data is downloaded choose the ‘All’ selection in the Show Entries dropdown list. Otherwise only the data visible on the screen will download.

Availability Data for Chart Above

Source: Soviet Causalities and Combat Losses in the Twentieth Century Greenhill Books, London, Stackpole Books, Pennsylvania, 1997, Table 95 (selected data) Section III Armored Vehicles, Pages 252-253, Edited by Colonel General G.F. Krivosheev

Availability of Soviet Tanks 1941-45 Data (Includes number received and losses)

*Armoured cars, tractors, other armoured vehicles

Source: Soviet Causalities and Combat Losses in the Twentieth Century Greenhill Books, London, Stackpole Books, Pennsylvania, 1997, Table 95 Section III Armored Vehicles, Pages 252-253, Edited by Colonel General G.F. Krivosheev

Availability of Soviet Tanks 1941-45 Transposed Data (Includes number received and losses)

*Armoured cars, tractors, other armoured vehicles

Source: Soviet Causalities and Combat Losses in the Twentieth Century Greenhill Books, London, Stackpole Books, Pennsylvania, 1997, Table 95 Section III Armored Vehicles, Pages 252-253, Edited by Colonel General G.F. Krivosheev

Other Soviet Tank and Availability Data Links

Soviet Light Arms Availability 1941-45

Soviet Artillery Availability 1941-45

Soviet Naval Vessel Availability 1941-45

Soviet Military Aircraft Availability 1941-45

Soviet Motor Vehicle Availability 1941-45

Soviet Radio Sets Availability 1941-45

10 Soviet Tanks of World War Two – The Good, the Bad, and the BEASTLY

This website, ww2data.com, has no responsibility for the persistence or accuracy of URLs for external or third party internet websites referenced.  Nor does ww2data.com guarantee that any content on such websites are accurate or will remain accurate.

Common Truck Types

These trucks were used in a variety of roles, from transporting troops and supplies to towing artillery and other heavy equipment. Some of the most common types of military trucks produced by the United States during the war included:

CCKW – Deuce and a Half

The CCKW was a 2.5-ton 6×6 truck, nicknamed the Deuce and a Half, that was widely used for transporting troops and supplies. More than 800,000 CCKWs were produced during the war, making it one of the most common military vehicles of the conflict. One of the most famous uses of the CCKW was during the Red Ball Express operations. It had a payload capacity of up to 5,000 pounds and was equipped with a gasoline-powered engine that produced between 91 and 104 horsepower, depending on the model. 

M3 Half-track

The M3 Half-track was a versatile vehicle that combined the mobility of a truck with the off-road capability of a tank. It was used for a variety of roles, including troop transport and artillery towing. More than 40,000 M3 Half-tracks were produced during the war.

GMC 6×6

The GMC 6×6 was a heavy-duty truck that was used for transporting heavy equipment and supplies. It was also used as a prime mover for artillery and other weapons systems. More than 193,000 GMC 6×6 trucks were produced during the war. It had a payload capacity of up to 10,000 pounds and was equipped with a larger gasoline-powered engine that produced between 147 and 187 horsepower, depending on the model.

Manufacturing Limitations

The production of military trucks faced several challenges. Here are some of the key challenges faced by manufacturers during the war:

Raw material shortages

The production of military trucks required large amounts of steel, rubber, and other raw materials that were in short supply during the war. As a result, manufacturers had to find ways to conserve materials and use substitutes when possible.

Labor shortages

The war effort required many workers to enlist in the military, leaving factories with a shortage of skilled labor. This forced manufacturers to find ways to train new workers quickly and efficiently.

Production capacity

The demand for military trucks was high, and manufacturers had to ramp up production quickly to meet the needs of the war effort. This required the construction of new factories and the expansion of existing ones.

Transportation challenges

The logistics of transporting raw materials and finished vehicles was a challenge during the war, as many transportation networks, especially the sea routes, were disrupted by the conflict.

Design challenges

The design of military trucks had to balance a variety of factors, including mobility, durability, and ease of maintenance. Manufacturers had to find ways to create vehicles that could operate effectively in a variety of terrain and weather conditions.

Despite these challenges, the production of military trucks was a key factor in the Allied victory in World War II. Manufacturers worked tirelessly to overcome these obstacles and produce large numbers of vehicles that played a crucial role in the outcome of the conflict.

US WW2 Production – Combat and Motor Vehicles Data

The above graph can be downloaded as an image.  

To download the data shown below from which the graph was developed click on the icon below corresponding to you desired format. Note: to ensure all data is downloaded choose the ‘All’ selection in the Show Entries dropdown list. Otherwise only the data visible on the screen will download.

(1) 1941 = July 1, 1940 through Dec 41

(2) 1945 = Jan 1 1945 through July 31 1945

(3) Total = July 1, 1940 through July 31, 1945

Source: Gropman, Alan L. “Mobilizing U.S. Industry In World War II: Myth And Reality.” Institute for National Strategic Studies, National Defense University, 1996, Washington, DC, Page 144, https://www.files.ethz.ch/isn/23588/mcnair50.pdf

Other US Production Data Links

US WW2 Production – Other

US WW2 Production – Guns and Munitions

US WW2 Production – Aircraft

US War Cost of Production by Category

This website, ww2data.com, has no responsibility for the persistence or accuracy of URLs for external or third party internet websites referenced.  Nor does ww2data.com guarantee that any content on such websites are accurate or will remain accurate.

“Everywhere one looks there are very impressive American production statistics throughout World War II. The war on the ground in Europe was often tank warfare. Between 1918 and 1933, the United States produced only 35 tanks, and no two of them the same model. In 1940, after witnessing Germany’s Blitzkrieg in Poland, Belgium, the Netherlands, and France, the United States produced 309 tanks, versus 1,400 in Britain and 1,450 in Germany. In 1943, however, the United States manufactured 29,500 tanks, more in 1 year than Germany produced in the entire war from 1939 to 1945. In all, the United States manufactured 88,430 tanks during World War II versus 24,800 in Britain and 24,050 in Germany.” (1)

(1) Source: Gropman, Alan L. “Mobilizing U.S. Industry In World War II: Myth And Reality.” Institute for National Strategic Studies, National Defense University, 1996, Washington, DC, Page 93. https://www.files.ethz.ch/isn/23588/mcnair50.pdf

US Industrial Production

An argument made by many is that with the combined Allied nations industrial might is that victory in World War 2 was all but a foregone conclusion. Except during the 1930s Germany led all nations in military production so the edge in Europe at least initially was with the Axis. German self-sufficiency was a key principle in their war preparations which included construction of synthetic fuel and rubber plants, prioritizing military over civilian economic policy, and stockpiling raw materials. 

So, it was not a given that the Allies industrial might would trump Germany’s. US industries pivoting sharply from commercial products to military materiel was fraught with risk. US industries used to work at an arm’s length from the government now had to work hand in hand often conceding leadership to the government. Companies that previously competed vigorously now agreed to share patent and technical information. Shortages of manpower and materials were worked through coordinating committees based not just US need but upon greatest Allied need. The US and its Allied partners through its government, military, and industry leadership learned quickly how to work together. There were plenty of bumps in the road, but they worked as a team with a common goal. The Axis nations did not.

Germany squandered many of its early advantages. Germany’s vision required industrial and military mobilizations but not that of total war because they foresaw a series of short wars or political takeovers of states in one-on-one actions. Accordingly, Germany’s early war aircraft production was running two shifts for five days a week. Up to the Battle of Britain and Operation Barbarossa the German short war or political takeover scenario played out time and time again. The Allies on the other hand foresaw a long war and mobilized its industries accordingly with factories running around the clock seven days a week.

US Production Data

The above graphs can be downloaded as images.  

To download the data shown below from which the graphs were developed click on the icon below corresponding to you desired format. Note: to ensure all data is downloaded choose the ‘All’ selection in the Show Entries dropdown list. Otherwise only the data visible on the screen will download.

US Production WWII: Ships 1941 – 1945

Source: Gropman, Alan L. “Mobilizing U.S. Industry In World War II: Myth And Reality.” Institute for National Strategic Studies, National Defense University, 1996, Washington, DC, Page 96. https://www.files.ethz.ch/isn/23588/mcnair50.pdf

US Production WWII: Aircraft 1940 – 1945

Source: Gropman, Alan L. “Mobilizing U.S. Industry In World War II: Myth And Reality.” Institute for National Strategic Studies, National Defense University, 1996, Washington, DC, Page 96. https://www.files.ethz.ch/isn/23588/mcnair50.pdf

US Production WWII: Tanks 1940 – 1945

Source: Gropman, Alan L. “Mobilizing U.S. Industry In World War II: Myth And Reality.” Institute for National Strategic Studies, National Defense University, 1996, Washington, DC, Page 96. https://www.files.ethz.ch/isn/23588/mcnair50.pdf

Other Production and Availability Data Links

Allies Axis Major Weapons Groups – Production Summaries

US WW2 Production – Aircraft

Soviet Artillery Availability 1941-45

German Flak Production History by Model

This website, ww2data.com, has no responsibility for the persistence or accuracy of URLs for external or third party internet websites referenced.  Nor does ww2data.com guarantee that any content on such websites are accurate or will remain accurate.

Tank production was a key factor in determining the outcome of the conflict. Here’s a breakdown of tank production numbers for each major belligerent, as well as the factors that limited their production:

Germany

Germany produced a total of approximately 47,000 tanks during the war. However, production was limited by several factors, including shortages of raw materials, labor, and production capacity. In addition, the complexity of German tank designs made them more difficult and time-consuming to produce than their Allied counterparts. Germany’s production of tanks was also competing with the production of other weapons platforms, such as aircraft, artillery, jet fighters and rockets. As a result, tank production was often limited by shortages of key materials and skilled labor.

Soviet Union

The Soviet Union produced a total of approximately 102,000 tanks during the war, making it the largest tank producer of the conflict. However, production was also limited by shortages of raw materials and production capacity, as well as the need to relocate factories eastward to avoid being overrun by the advancing German army. Additionally, Soviet tank production was often competing with the production of other key weapons platforms, such as aircraft and artillery.

United States

The United States produced a total of approximately 88,500 tanks during the war, with production ramping up significantly after the entry of the United States into the conflict in 1941. However, production was initially limited by a lack of experience in tank design and manufacturing, as well as shortages of raw materials and production capacity. US tank production initially lagged other weapons platforms due to the prioritization of aircraft as well as naval and merchant ship production, which was seen as more crucial to the war effort.

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom produced a total of approximately 20,150 tanks during the war. Production was limited by several factors, including shortages of raw materials and production capacity, as well as the need to balance tank production with other wartime needs especially air and sea production.

Although the Allied nations tank production suffered due to competing weapons platforms thereby limiting their tank production. Despite this limitation the Allied nations that were able to produce a larger number of tanks which enabled them for success on the battlefield.

Tanks Produced by Nation 1940 to 1945 Data

The above graph can be downloaded as an image.  

To download the data shown below from which the graph was developed click on the icon below corresponding to you desired format. Note: to ensure all data is downloaded choose the ‘All’ selection in the Show Entries dropdown list. Otherwise only the data visible on the screen will download.

Trueman, C. N. “Weapons And Manpower.” https://www.historylearningsite.co.uk/world-war-two/weapons-and-manpower/, Data accessed on July 22, 2022

Other Production Data Links

Allies Axis Major Weapons Groups – Production Summaries

Allies Axis Vital Commerce and Raw Materials

German Soviet War Production, 1940-45

This website, ww2data.com, has no responsibility for the persistence or accuracy of URLs for external or third party internet websites referenced.  Nor does ww2data.com guarantee that any content on such websites are accurate or will remain accurate.

According to data from Colonel General G.F. Krivosheev’s book, “Soviet Causalities and Combat Losses in the Twentieth Century,” the Soviet Union lost a staggering 134,100 tanks, self-propelled guns, and armored vehicles out of a total 204,400 units during the war. However, even with these great losses Soviet armor was key to driving back the German armies. Thus, proving Joseph Stalin’s maxim “Quantity has a quality all its own.”

Annual Soviet Armor Losses

These losses were spread out over the course of the war, with the majority occurring between 1941 and 1944. In 1941, the Soviet Union lost 23,500 units, which was a significant blow to their military capabilities. This was due in part to the surprise German attack on the Soviet Union, which caught the Soviet military off guard and unprepared.

In 1942, the Soviet Union lost another 24,100 units, including a significant number of tanks. This was a difficult year for the Soviet Union, as they were still reeling from the losses suffered in 1941 and were struggling to repel the German advance.

In 1943, the Soviet Union lost another 36,000 units. However, this was also the year in which the Soviet Union began to turn the tide of the war, with significant victories at Stalingrad and Kursk. Despite these victories, the Soviet Union still suffered significant losses in terms of tanks, self-propelled guns, and armored vehicles.

In 1944, the Soviet Union lost another 36,200 units. This was the year in which the Soviet Union began to push the Germans back towards their own borders and marked a turning point in the war.

Finally, in 1945, the Soviet Union lost another 14,300 units as they pushed into Germany and brought the war to a close.

Tank Losses

In terms of specific types of Soviet armored vehicles, tanks made up most of the losses suffered by the Soviet Union. Of the 134,100 units lost, 83,500 were tanks. This includes a significant number of T-34 tanks, which were a mainstay of the Soviet armored forces during the war. Other types of armored vehicles that were lost by the Soviet Union included self-propelled guns, armored personnel carriers, armored tractors, and armored cars.

In conclusion, the Soviet Union suffered significant losses in terms of armored vehicles during World War II. These losses were spread out over the course of the war and had a significant impact on the Soviet Union’s military capabilities. Despite these losses, the Soviet Union was able to ultimately emerge victorious in the war thanks to the bravery and sacrifice of its soldiers and the resilience of its people.

Soviet Armor Losses Data

The above graph can be downloaded as an image.  

To download the data shown below from which the graph was developed click on the icon below corresponding to you desired format. Note: to ensure all data is downloaded choose the ‘All’ selection in the Show Entries dropdown list. Otherwise only the data visible on the screen will download.

*Includes cars, tractors, other armoured vehicles

Source: Krivosheev, Colonel General G.F. “Soviet Causalities and Combat Losses in the Twentieth Century.” Greenhill Books, 1997, London, Page 253

Other Soviet Loss Data Links

Irrecoverable Losses for Red Army Navy versus Germany and Japan

Red Army and Navy Losses, 1941-45 by Rank, Year, Quarter

Red Army and Navy Losses, 1941-45, by Year

Blavatnik Archive

Note: Data is from last four sub columns under column labeled “During war as a whole”

Annual Allied Axis Tank and Self-propelled Gun Production 1939-45

1939

The year 1939 saw relatively little production because the war did not officially begin until September of that year. The Soviet Union produced the most units during this year, nearly 75% of the world’s total.

1940

The year 1940 saw a massive increase in German going from 247 units to 1,643 units, including the Panzer III and IV tanks. The Soviet Union produced just over 2,794 units while the United Kingdom produced 1,399.

1941

The year 1941 was a pivotal year in the war and saw a significant increase in production as a result. Germany produced 3,790 units during this year. The Soviet Union also ramped up its production, producing 6,590 units, including the T-34. The United States began production in significant numbers, with just over 4,000 units produced during the year.

1942

The year 1942 saw rising production, with over 66,00 units produced worldwide. Germany produced just over 6,000 units, including the Panther and Tiger II tanks. The Soviet Union produced over 24,000 units, including the T-34 and KV-1 tanks, while the United States produced just 24,997 units.

1943

The year 1943 saw the highest-level production during the war, with just over 74,000 units produced worldwide. Germany produced just over 12,000 units, including the Panther and Tiger I. The Soviet Union produced just over 24,000 units, including the T-34 and IS-2. The United States produced just over 29,000 units during this year.

1944

The year 1944 saw a decline in tank production, with just over 70,000 units produced worldwide. Germany produced just over 19,000 units, including the Tiger II tank. The Soviet Union produced just under 29,000 units. The United States produced just over 17,500 units during this year.

1945

The year 1945 saw a dramatic decline in tank production as the war began to wind down. Germany produced just 3,932 units. The Soviet Union produced just over 15,000 units, including the T-34 and IS-3. The United States produced just 11,968 units during this year.

In terms of specific tank types, the most produced tank during World War II was the Soviet T-34, with over 84,000 units produced. The second most produced tank was the United States M4 Sherman with 49,422 units produced. 

World War II saw a massive surge in tank and SP production, with the years between 1942 and 1944 seeing the highest levels of production. The USSR produced 48% of the Allies units followed by the US at 40%, the UK at 13%, and Canada at 3%. Germany produced 90% of the Axis units followed by Italy and Japan at 5% each.

Annual Allied Axis Tank and Self-propelled Gun Production 1939-45 Data

The above graph can be downloaded as an image.  

To download the data shown below from which the graph was developed click on the icon below corresponding to you desired format. Note: to ensure all data is downloaded choose the ‘All’ selection in the Show Entries dropdown list. Otherwise only the data visible on the screen will download.

Note: Canada’s total production of 5,678 units was spread over the time period in proportion to the UK production. 

Source: Ellis, John, “The World War II Databook”, BCA by arrangements with Aurum Press Ltd., London, 1993, Page 277, Table 87

Other Vehicle Production and Availability Data Links

Soviet Armored Vehicles Availability 1941-45

US WW2 Production – Combat and Motor Vehicles

Tanks Produced by Nation 1940 to 1945

USSR – Germany Tank Production and Losses by Month

The American Automobile Industry in World War Two

Transition From Civilian to Military Production

Herman Goring was famously quoted as saying that Americans could produce razor blades and refrigerators but not military equipment. At that time there was a kernel of truth to his statement, but it was backwards looking versus forwards looking. United States industry even in the mire of the Great Depression was outproducing the big three Axis nations combined. Its automotive and locomotive industries were world leaders.

President Franklin Roosevelt tapped William Knudsen, President of General Motors, to work with other US industry leaders to meet the needs of the American military and eventually her allies as well. The US’ industrial coordination versus the other nations of the time was more informal. Most of these industrialists worked with their existing supply chains to develop and produce needed military hardware. Handshake deals were common earlier on just to get things moving. Things became more formalized as the War Production Board and its sub-boards and committees. This included the Combined Munitions Assignments Board a joint US and UK controlling allocations of war materiel to allied nations.

Manufacturing Facilities

Due to the Great Depression numerous manufacturing facilities were either idle or underutilized. Using existing infrastructure help jump start the transition from civilian to military production. Additionally, the US Office of Production Management froze production, sales, or deliveries of commercial vehicles effective on January 1, 1942. This freed up all US automobile and truck manufacturers to be dedicated to war production. The ban of commercial vehicle sales would last until October 1945. This type of action was not limited to the automobile industry as numerous other industries also transition to military production as well.

Labor Availability

The United States was slowly coming out of the Great Depression with a 1933 unemployment rate high of 24.9% and an equally high underemployment rate. The unemployment rate for 1940 was 14.6% and 1941 was 9.9%. These rates quickly dropped in 1942 to 4.7% and then remained under 2.0% for the remainder of the war. Therefore, at the beginning of the war many men were looking and available to step up. As the volunteers and drafted men went into the services industry tapped into the then nontraditional labor forces such as women and minorities. 

Counteracting use of previously unemployed and nontraditional labor sources were a myriad of labor strikes. The AFL- CIO pledged to no strikes for the war’s duration. Some companies took advantage of the pledge and reduced benefits often resulting in wildcat strikes.

Production Output

Tank production as well as other military production rose to phenomenal heights during the war. This was based upon mass manufacturing techniques, year over year improvements due to climbing the learning curves, manufacturers sharing designs and other technology, and an able workforce.

M4 Sherman Tank Production By Manufacturer Data

The above graph can be downloaded as an image.  

To download the data shown below from which the graph was developed click on the icon below corresponding to you desired format. Note: to ensure all data is downloaded choose the ‘All’ selection in the Show Entries dropdown list. Otherwise only the data visible on the screen will download.

Sources: Hunnicutt, R.P. “Sherman: A History of the American Medium Tank”, Echo Point Books & Media 2015, Stansell, P. and Laughlin, K. “Son of Sherman Vol 1: The Sherman Design and Development.” The Ampersand Group, Inc., 2013, Data accessed at The Sherman Tank Site, “The Place For All Things Sherman Tank.”, http://www.theshermantank.com/tag/tank-factories/, Data accessed on June 28, 2022

Other Vehicle Production and Availability Data Links

Soviet Armored Vehicles Availability 1941-45

US WW2 Production – Combat and Motor Vehicles

Tanks Produced by Nation 1940 to 1945

USSR – Germany Tank Production and Losses by Month

German, US, and USSR Tank Production 1938-45

This website, ww2data.com, has no responsibility for the persistence or accuracy of URLs for external or third party internet websites referenced.  Nor does ww2data.com guarantee that any content on such websites are accurate or will remain accurate.

Prewar Expectations

Germany foresaw a series of short wars or political takeovers of states in one-on-one actions. And the early days proved out Germany’s expectations, beginning in 1935 with Germany violating the Treaty of Versailles by introducing military conscription on through to France signing an armistice with Nazi Germany in 1940. Germany saw no need to mobilize for an industrial total war. For example, Germany’s early war aircraft production was running two shifts for five days a week. 

Outside of the ongoing war in China the Japanese saw a rapid expansion into the southwest Pacific followed by a negotiated peace. Japan believe they could expand their empire and control the much-needed resources that they lacked. “They planned to fight a war of limited objectives and having once secured these objectives to set up a defense in such depth that the United States would find a settlement favorable to Japan an attractive alternative to a long and costly war. To the Japanese leaders this seemed an entirely reasonable view.” (1)

(1) Morton, Louis, “Command Decisions Japan’s Decision for War”, Center of Military History United States Army, Washington, DC 1990, Page 122

Whereas the Allied Nations consisting of the United Kingdom (UK), the United States (US, and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) all believe that it would be a long war, and each quickly mobilized their industries for total war in ways suited for their situations. 

Industrial Philosophy

All three Allied nations relied on mass production. The UK and US utilized a capitalistic mass production approach, and the USSR utilized a central planning approach to mass production. The US adapted lessons from the automobile industry to the building of tanks, locomotives, and aircraft. The Soviet Union dialed up production rates. USSR military analysis determined the projected life of a weapons group or platform, such as a tank, and their requirements for subcomponents reflected that life expectancy.

Germany and Japan relied on a more artisanal production approach often with very short production runs. Axis militaries were intimately involved with production demanding design changes often in the middle of production runs thus slowing current production and making logistics later on much more difficult.

Additionally, the Allied nations tried to limit the number of weapon types. For example, Germany produced 42 types of aircraft versus the Soviet Union producing twelve types.

Coordination Between Partners

Italy’s and Japan’s leaders were stunned when Germany invaded the USSR. No pre-coordination occurred the three nations. Japan’s partners were also surprised when the bombed Pearl Harbor. The Allies had some level of cooperation between the three major partners and a high-level degree of cooperation between the UK and the US. Allied cooperation made all three of their industries more efficient via programs such as Lend-Lease and Reverse Lend-Lease.

Allies Axis Major Weapons Groups – Production Summaries Data

The above graph can be downloaded as an image.  

To download the data shown below from which the graph was developed click on the icon below corresponding to you desired format. Note: to ensure all data is downloaded choose the ‘All’ selection in the Show Entries dropdown list. Otherwise only the data visible on the screen will download.

* Tanks, self-propelled artillery, vehicles

** For the Allies Missiles were only for test

Source: Wikipedia, “Military production during World War II.” https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Military_production_during_World_War_II, Data accessed on June 28, 2022

Other Production and Availability Data Links

US WW2 Production – Aircraft

Soviet Artillery Availability 1941-45

German Flak Production History by Model

This website, ww2data.com, has no responsibility for the persistence or accuracy of URLs for external or third party internet websites referenced.  Nor does ww2data.com guarantee that any content on such websites are accurate or will remain accurate.

Automotive Industry Transition to Military Production

Germany’s automotive industry, led by companies like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Volkswagen (which was then known as “Volkswagenwerk”), was heavily supported by the Nazi government. The government invested in infrastructure and provided subsidies to help the industry grow. German automakers also benefited from innovations in engineering and production techniques, such as the development of the assembly line. In 1936 Germany with a 4.8% market share was the world’s third largest auto manufacturer behind the United States at 77.2% and Great Britain at 7.8%.

Meanwhile, Japan’s automotive industry was still in its early stages. The government saw the industry as a key component of its efforts to modernize the country and catch up with the West. The industry was led by companies like Toyota, Nissan, and Honda, which were focused on producing small, affordable cars for the domestic market. The Japanese government also provided support for the industry, including the creation of a national research institute for automotive technology. Japanese market share did not even make it to 1%.

The United States and Great Britain transitioned their automotive industry to produce tanks, self-propelled Guns, other armored vehicles, trucks, aircraft, and dozens of other weapons and platforms. The Soviet Union as well transition their automotive sector into producing vast quantities of war materiel. In comparison to the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Soviet Union, Germany and Japan’s automotive industries were not as effective in terms of producing military vehicles and equipment.

Machine Gun Production

The most commonly used machine guns during World War II were the German MG34 and MG42, the American M1919 and M2 Browning, and the Soviet DP-27 and Maxim PM1910.

Exact production numbers for machine guns during World War II can be difficult to pin down, as records and data collection were not always complete. However, here are some production estimates for machine guns by some of the major powers:

It is estimated that Germany produced around 1.2 million MG34s and MG42s combined during the war, both fired a 7.92×57mm Mauser rifle cartridge. Production numbers varied by year, with approximately 100,000 MG34s produced in 1940 and over 400,000 MG42s produced in 1944.

The United States produced large numbers of machine guns during the war. The M1919, a .30 caliber medium machine gun, was the most common model. It is estimated that the US produced around 3 million M1919s and M2 Brownings, a .50 caliber machine gun, combined. Production numbers varied by year, with approximately 400,000 M1919s produced in 1943 and 700,000 M2 Brownings produced in 1944.

The Soviet Union also produced large numbers of machine guns during the war, with the DP-27 and Maxim PM1910 being the most commonly produced models and both fired the 7.62×54mmR cartridge. It is estimated that the Soviet Union produced around 1 million DP-27s and 520,000 Maxim PM1910s. Production numbers varied by year, with approximately 120,000 DP-27s produced in 1941 and 130,000 Maxim PM1910s produced in 1942.

Great Britain produced a smaller numbers of machine guns during the war. With the Bren which fired a .303 cartridge being the most common. It is estimated that Great Britain produced around 500,000 Bren guns. Production numbers varied by year, with approximately 28,000 Bren guns produced in 1940 and 133,000 produced in 1944.

Allies Axis Weapon Production – Land Forces Data

The above graph can be downloaded as an image.  

To download the data shown below from which the graph was developed click on the icon below corresponding to you desired format. Note: to ensure all data is downloaded choose the ‘All’ selection in the Show Entries dropdown list. Otherwise only the data visible on the screen will download.

Source: Wikipedia, “Military production during World War II.” https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Military_production_during_World_War_II, Data accessed on June 28, 2022

Other Production Data Links

Allies Axis Major Weapons Groups – Production Summaries

Allies Axis Vital Commerce and Raw Materials

German Soviet War Production, 1940-45

This website, ww2data.com, has no responsibility for the persistence or accuracy of URLs for external or third party internet websites referenced.  Nor does ww2data.com guarantee that any content on such websites are accurate or will remain accurate.

Aircraft Production Example

Using aircraft types as an example Germany’s use of many models can be seen as both a strength and a weakness, depending on the context. Germany’s use of many aircraft models allowed them to have a diverse range of capabilities, with each aircraft optimized for a particular role. This gave them a tactical advantage in certain situations, such as having specialized planes for ground attack or long-range reconnaissance.

Additionally, Germany’s aviation industry was highly advanced, and they were able to develop cutting-edge technology that pushed the boundaries of what was possible in aircraft design. By producing many aircraft models, which helped them stay ahead of their enemies in terms of innovation.

However, having many aircraft types can make logistics and maintenance more complicated, especially when it comes to sourcing spare parts and training personnel. This can lead to inefficiencies and delays in operations, which can be a hindrance on the battlefield.

Additionally, producing many aircraft models requires significant resources in terms of time, money, and materials. This can strain a country’s resources, particularly in a total war scenario where resources are already scarce. Germany’s use of many aircraft models spread their resources too thin, preventing them from fully focusing on the development and production of their most effective designs.

Speer Reforms

Albert Speer was appointed as the Minister of Armaments and War Production in February 1942, and he initiated a series of reforms aimed at improving the efficiency and productivity of the German war economy. These reforms had a significant impact on the aircraft manufacturing industry in Germany.

One of Speer’s key initiatives was to rationalize production by consolidating smaller factories and focusing on larger, more efficient facilities. This allowed for greater standardization in production and more efficient use of resources. In the aircraft industry, this led to the closure of some smaller factories and the concentration of production in larger facilities. Unluckily for Germany the transition to larger more efficient aircraft factories occurred as the UK and US were ramping up their strategic targeting of Germany’s aircraft industry.

In response to the bombing raids, the German aircraft industry began to relocate factories to more remote areas or to underground bunkers. This allowed production to continue, but at a slower pace with reduced capacity and lesser quality. The bombing campaign also targeted transportation networks, including rail lines and river transportation, which disrupted the supply of raw materials and parts to aircraft factories. This further reduced the capacity of the German aircraft industry to produce new aircraft.

Germany’s use of many aircraft models in World War II was a mixed bag in terms of its effectiveness but overall, a net negative. While it allowed them to have a diverse range of capabilities and push the boundaries of technological innovation.  But it also limited total units produced while making manufacturing, logistics, and maintenance more complicated.

Numbers of Weapon Types Produced in Germany USSR, 1944 Data

The above graph can be downloaded as an image.  

To download the data shown below from which the graph was developed click on the icon below corresponding to you desired format. Note: to ensure all data is downloaded choose the ‘All’ selection in the Show Entries dropdown list. Otherwise only the data visible on the screen will download.

Source: Harrison, Mark “Industrial mobilisation for World War II: a German comparison*.” Page 22, https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/soc/economics/staff/mharrison/public/opk2000mobilisation.pdf, Data accessed May 20, 2022, *This paper appeared as a chapter in The Soviet Defence Industry Complex from Stalin to Khrushchev, pp. 99-117. Edited by John Barber and Mark Harrison. Basingstoke and London: Macmillan Press, 2000, For Germany see Overy (1994), 363; (A) is for January, and (B) shows post-Speer reform figures. For USSR, ground forces armament figures are derived from first quarter serial production data in RTsKhIDNI, except aircraft based on annual series in Kostyrchenko (1994), 235-7.

Other Production and Availability Data Links

Soviet Military Aircraft Availability 1941-45

Aircraft Available In Europe; Germany, UK, US, USSR

Warplanes Produced by Nation 1940 to 1945

Allies Axis Weapon Production – Land Forces

This website, ww2data.com, has no responsibility for the persistence or accuracy of URLs for external or third party internet websites referenced.  Nor does ww2data.com guarantee that any content on such websites are accurate or will remain accurate.