Tank origin

The M42 was an early entry in the U.S. Army’s post-World War II efforts to develop anti-aircraft vehicles. It was produced starting in 1952 and featured two Bofors 40mm autocannons mounted to the chassis of the M41 Walker Bulldog. Despite the effectiveness of its fast-firing guns, the development of supersonic aircraft almost rendered the M42 obsolete soon after its debut. However, once it was deployed during the Vietnam War, the vehicle gained renown as a ground support measure. Sources suggest that it received the nickname “Duster” from the clouds of dust it stirred while traveling Vietnam’s roads.