Leonardo da Vinci designed a scythed chariot equipped with rotating blades for battlefield use.
The concept combined a horse-drawn chariot with long blades extending from a rotating mechanism. As the chariot moved, the blades were intended to sweep through formations of soldiers. Leonardo’s drawing presents the machine as an offensive weapon rather than a transport vehicle or armored shelter.
The scythed chariot is often confused with Leonardo’s armored vehicle, sometimes called a tank. The armored vehicle was a covered, conical platform carrying guns, while the scythed chariot depended on exposed rotating blades. Neither design is known to have entered regular military service.
Leonardo studied ancient and contemporary warfare throughout his career. His military sketches frequently explored ways to multiply the force of a small number of soldiers through motion, mechanical leverage, and surprise.