World of Tanks has teamed up with the Bovington Tank Museum, and The Musée des Blindés in Saumur in France to bring the world’s only running King Tiger tank to the UK.
Wargaming explains that “The Musée des Blindés has lovingly restored the King Tiger to full running condition in an impressive feat of engineering”, adding that “The Tank Museum, meanwhile, has worked tirelessly to bring the King Tiger to British soil, ensuring the 70-ton vehicle’s safe and secure transport across borders and water, in partnership with World of Tanks.” As you might imagine, World of Tanks (the game) is the main sponsor of TANKFEST, and Wargaming funded the movement of the King Tiger between La Manche and the English Channel.
Nik Wyness, The Tank Museum’s Head of Marketing, said: “We know our visitors will be really excited to see this rare World War Two tank up close at TANKFEST”. Wyness said: “We try to ensure there is always something at TANKFEST that most people will not have seen before. So, our thanks go to our French colleagues – and event partners World of Tanks – for making it possible.”
After the Second World War, surviving King Tigers were captured by Allied forces, although just a handful survive today across museums and private collections, and only one in the world which is in running condition.
“World of Tanks is delighted to help facilitate this historic project on behalf of our museum partners,” said Richard Cutland, Head of Military Relations at Wargaming, adding: “For visitors to be able to see this monumental feat of engineering up close in the UK for the first time is sure to be an unforgettable experience for tank enthusiasts and World of Tanks players alike.”
TANKFEST is actually sold out, but there will be a live stream on The Tank Museum’s YouTube Channel on June 29th (Sunday) at 1pm.
In celebration of TANKFEST 2025, Wargaming has launched an exclusive TANKFEST collection that will excite tank enthusiasts around the world. It’ll be available at event itself, or you can get it online at World of Tanks Store.
The TANKFEST collection features a range of must-have items for any fan of heavy machinery and the King Tiger. From stylish apparel to unique accessories, here’s what you can look forward to: T-shirts, hoodies, mousepads, tumblers, mugs, and tote bags. Don’t miss out on this exciting collection and gear up with these exclusive items.
World of Tanks is available now.
