For the Red Army authorities, it was becoming increasingly evident that the BT series of "fast tanks" was not the ideal long-term 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.