The lighweight, compact Valentine had been an infantry tank first implemented in 1940 by British forces. It came as a welcome addition for the beleagured British who had been forced into a desperate evacuation from Dunkirk, during which precious materiel had to be left behind. A total run of over 7,000 units (produced in Britain and Canada) made the Valentine the most prolifically produced Uk tank during WWII. The Mk.II/IV variation had been loaded with the 40mm 2-pounder gun, and showcased a 130 hp diesel motor also a "sluggish motion" coil sprung suspension system that offered it ample flexibility for the infantry tank role. It débuted in November 1941 in North Africa, and had been still serving in Tunisia, in May 1943. Valentines were also passed away in significant figures on Soviet Union under the "lend-lease" system. They were utilized mostly in reconnaissance roles.
