This M5A1 Stuart, built in December 1943 by Massey-Harris and delivered under Lend-Lease, served with the British Army during the liberation of Europe. After the war, it returned to the UK and was converted into a turretless reconnaissance carrier. Decades later, an incomplete restoration attempt stalled due to severe hull deformation, leaving the vehicle abandoned until the Dijkstra collection acquired it in 2020.
Over several years, the Dijkstra family gathered rare original components from around the world, laying the groundwork for a full Class A restoration. In late 2023, BAIV assessed the project and initiated temporary assembly. A major obstacle the missing main gun was solved by sourcing a replacement from Greece.
A detailed restoration plan approved in early 2024 led to a comprehensive rebuild by BAIV’s specialists. Engines were overhauled, fuel tanks newly fabricated, and numerous mechanical systems redesigned in 3D CAD and manufactured anew. Also the top deck was completely reconstructed correcting the mistakes of an earlier attempt in the UK. Despite technical challenges and long lead times for rare parts, the project remained within budget.
Final adjustments in early 2025 resolved steering issues, and on 13–14 February 2025 the Dijkstra family conducted final inspections and acceptance tests. Restored in the markings of a wartime Stuart from the Guards Armoured Division, the vehicle now serves as a tribute to the British troops who helped liberate Northwest Europe and to all who contributed to preserving this historic machine. The tank debuted publicly thereafter and has since participated in several commemorative events making tracks on historic ground with the same presence and power it once carried into battle.
M5A1 Stuart Light Tank
M5A1 Stuart Light Tank
This M5A1 Stuart, built in December 1943 by Massey-Harris, served with the British Army during the liberation of Europe. Returned to the UK after WWII, it was later converted into a reconnaissance version and remained incomplete until its full Class A restoration began in 2023.
Wartime Use / Deployment
Used by American forces throughout the Western Front during the liberation of Europe.
Condition When Discovered
Partially restored, turretless, and structurally warped beyond feasible repair.
Start Restoration
The Stuart has arrived in the workshop, the dismantling has begun, and the adventure has started.
Condition After Restoration
Fully rebuilt, operational Class A vehicle with complete turret, systems, and authentic markings.
Highlights
The restoration required sourcing rare original parts worldwide, resolving complex technical issues, and rebuilding major systems. Despite challenges, including warped hull plates, obsolete components, and a missing gun, the project was completed within budget, returning the Stuart to full operational Class A condition.
Cannon Craddle
Missing original cannon cradle, 3D-designed and newly fabricated.
3D-designed
Extensive 3D-designed and newly fabricated components restored full turret and drivetrain function.
Original engines
Original Cadillac engines completely rebuilt to Class A operational standards.
Restoration Photobook
For every restoration project, a comprehensive restoration book is created, documenting the entire process from start to finish in hundreds of detailed photographs. These books offer a unique behind-the-scenes insight into the craftsmanship, precision, and expertise behind each BAIV restoration. Interested parties are welcome to download these books to gain a deeper understanding of our working methods, technical capabilities, and the level of quality we strive for in every project.
Thank you for interest in our restoration book. Enjoy exploring the restoration process.
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