Five A7V tanks from Abteilung 1 launched attack on March 21, 1918. Only two tanks survived: female 501 and male 506 (later named Mephisto). Tanks encountered fog and barbed wire entanglement, losing 505 and 507
German High Command initially doubted tank capabilities until mid-1917. Infantry troops proved cheaper and more effective than tanks. Military blockade limited production of tanks. Traditional Prussian officer sentiment opposed tank development