Crusader and Covenanter Cruiser Tanks 1939–45The Covenanter (which never saw active service) and Crusader Cruiser tanks were developed between 1939 and 1940. The Crusader first saw action in the North African desert in June 1941: its speed and sleek design made it a hard target to hit, and the tank was well respected by the Afrikakorps for its velocity in combat. However, its hurried development prior to World War II also made it prone to mechanical failure. Crusader and Covenanter Cruiser Tanks