Is it Loud Inside a Tank When They Fire the Main Gun?

Is the sound inside a tank during main gun firing as destructive as one would imagine? Surprisingly, it's less about the noise levels than it is about the protection the tank offers. The crew's ears are vital, and they use specialized hearing protection to mitigate the risks.

Understanding the Sound Levels and Protection

While the firing of a tank's main gun can create intense sounds, the actual experience for the crew is surprisingly less devastating than one might think. The tank's steel hull acts as an excellent sound insulator, making the environment relatively quieter inside compared to the dangers outside.

When a tank fires its main gun, the sound comprises three primary components: mechanical sounds, explosion sounds, and sonic booms. The mechanical sounds are relatively weak and are not significantly louder than other sounds within the tank, such as engine noise or road vibrations. In contrast, the explosion sound and sonic boom, though extremely loud, only propagate forward from the muzzle and not backward, ensuring that the crew inside the tank is relatively protected.

The sound levels can reach up to 160 dB inside the tank. This is particularly concerning, as any noise above 120 dB can cause instant hearing damage. However, it's worth noting that the worst part of the sound does not reverberate back into the tank but rather outward, making it much worse for observers outside the vehicle.

Hearing Protection and Its Importance

Given the potential for hearing damage, tank crews now wear specialized ear protection headphones when inside the vehicle. These headphones are designed to dampen the sound and provide critical protection against the intense blast sounds.

The use of hearing protection is crucial. Despite wearing protective gear, some individuals can still suffer from permanent hearing loss. The author of this article, for instance, has experienced permanent hearing loss despite using ear protection diligently.

The Russian Perspective: Comfort and Challenges in a Tank

To gain further insight into the conditions inside a tank, it's worth examining the experiences of Russian artillerymen. One interview highlighted three main challenges faced by the crew: weather conditions, heat, and the unusual issue of partially missing ammunition deliveries, which can lead to shortages of daily rations.

While the living conditions inside a tank can be quite uncomfortable, the crew members prioritize their health and performance. The well-being of the crew is paramount, and using proper hearing protection ensures that they can continue to operate effectively under challenging conditions.

Given that the tank’s main gun firing can reach up to 190 dB, the importance of hearing protection cannot be overstated. It's a critical element in maintaining the crew's health and ensuring they can operate effectively even during intense firing.