Part 5/13:
Despite the initial buzz, many Western farmers faced immediate obstacles—ideological sentiments about “communist tractors” created mental barricades. For some, the idea of a Soviet-made machine was practically unthinkable due to Cold War hostilities. However, the irresistible price advantage gradually swayed even the most skeptical, as farmers prioritized economics over politics.
Salespeople adapted, emphasizing technical specs and downplaying the Soviet origins, with some suggesting that "it's better to trade than to shoot." Nevertheless, initial sales figures indicated that the Soviet tractors found a foothold in smaller farms, where limited margins made cost savings highly attractive.