For the Red Army authorities, it was becoming increasingly evident that the BT series of "fast tanks" was not the ideal longterm solution for Soviet armored forces. These tanks were lightly armored and armed, yet were expected to engage enemy armor from a distance. Their capabilities fell short, particularly on the evolving battlefields of the late 1930s. Despite their innovative track design allowing them to run on bare wheels, a feature appreciated by Soviet officials for its versatility, they lacked the necessary qualities to fulfill their role effectively.