Just. Many of the concepts were built up pre-war and the work on the a-20, 32 etc began in 1937 the first 2 actual prototypes were ready in january 1940 and the first production models rolled out in September. Given the designation '34' to commemorate the decree of that year calling for military expansion.
(Stalins Armoured might, 2002)
Cheers,
Adam.
(cross-posted with Za... got distracted by an SMK
)