The speed limit for tanks on the roads in England and Wales is to double to 40mph.
Andrew Jones, the roads minister, said the move would ease congestion and improve safety in areas where tanks use public roads.
In a statement Mr Jones said: "Slow moving tanks are frustrating for drivers and can cause unnecessary wear and tear on our military hardware.
"This common sense measure can improve safety, and means the end to one more bit of red tape for our armed forces."
Heavy tracked vehicles have been limited to 20mph on Britain's roads for decades, although defence chiefs appear to have assumed, incorrectly, that the restriction did not apply to military vehicles.
In October 2013 tank crews were instructed to obey the 20mph limit. The move prompted a review of the situation.
Tanks will be allowed to move on the roads at the same speed they might in active service (Getty)
The new speed limit for so-called 'armoured track laying vehicles' (AVTs) is due to come into force in October.
The move will allow armoured vehicles to move along Britain's roads at the same speed they might in active service.
A consultation document for the Department of Transport, published in July, showed overwhelming support for the planned increase.
Although the speed limit will be doubled in England and Wales, speed limits are a devolved power so the administrations in Scotland and Northern Ireland would be able to set their own speed limits.
