The Evolution of the Tank

A banker and RNAS officer, Sueter became Secretary of the Landships Committee and Head of the Mechanical Warfare Supply Department of the Ministry of Munitions. This naval involvement in the tank's development explains such nautical tank terms as hatch, hull, bow and ports. Sueter was somewhat embittered as, in 1917, he clashed with the Admiralty and was posted to command the RNAS in Italy. While in Italy, Sueter sent a letter to King George which incurred the displeasure of the Sea Lords and he was relieved of command. He was given no work from 1918 to 1920 when he was retired as a rear-admiral. As might be expected, his tone is highly controversial. After leaving the Royal Navy he advised the United States and France on the development of armour.