British Centurion main battle tankT-55 main battle tank
Main battle tanks are often classified as belonging to a particular generation, although the actual definition and membership in these generations are not defined. Soviet military planners organize tanks with the first generation of tanks up to 1950, and four generations of tanks[1] (with the first main battle tank being the third-generation T-64), while American strategists organize main battle tanks into three generations.[Note 1][2] The military of the People's Republic of China also recognizes three generations of its own tanks.
In 1973, Rolf Hilmes saw three tank generations and three "intermediate generations", which consisted mainly of upgraded vehicles.[3] The first generation of main battle tanks was based on or influenced by designs of World War II, most notably the SovietT-34.[4] The second generation was equipped with NBC protection (only sometimes), night-vision devices, a stabilized main gun and at least a mechanical fire-control system.[4] The third generation is in Western parlance determined by the usage of thermal imagers, digital fire-control systems and special (composite) armour[4] (Soviet doctrine, however, de-emphasizes thermal vision and electronic fire control, preferring large-caliber gun and engines of high power).
However, Hilmes acknowledged that tanks cannot be definitively grouped by generations, as each tank-producing country develops and introduces its tanks in tune with its own ideas and needs. He also states that breakdown of postwar tanks by generations is based on timeframe and technical factors, as a basis for further discussion.
First Generation
The first generation of "universal tanks" or "main battle tanks", all except the Centurion had a main gun calibre of 100mm or less
The second generation had enhanced night-fighting capabilities and in most cases NBC protection. Most western tanks of this generation were armed with the 105mm Royal Ordnance L7 tank gun or derivatives of it.
A development of the M48 Patton. M60A2 and M60A3 are sometimes considered as the first intermediate generation. The M60A2 had a new turret housing an M162 152mm gun/launcher.
Ukrainian modernisation, bringing it to T-84 standard. Fitted with Nizh reactive armour, 9K120 Refleks missile, and a new engine, optics, and fire control system.
First tank with a supine driver position. Designed to replace both the Centurion, and heavier Conqueror tanks. Chobham armour was tested on the FV 4211.
Project 4030 Phase 1 was an improved version of the Chieftain, featuring thickened belly armour, tank laser sight, and improved suspension, transmission, and fuel capacity.
Shir (4030 Phase 2) was developed for export to Iran, featuring a new turbocharged engine, thickened belly armour, and a new transmission, suspension, and cooling system. It was cancelled in 1979 before any production vehicles were delivered.
Project 4030 Phase 2 Jordan, designated as "Khalid", is a further development from the cancelled Shir originally intended for Iran but renegotiated for export to Jordan, equipped with integrated FCS, tank laser sight, and day/night sights.
Modernized M48A1/A2C/A3 including British 105 mm L7 cannon, low profile commander's cupola, and an upgraded communication suite, engine, and transmission.
Main battle tank developed by the People's Republic of China. Its development started in March 1970. After several prototypes were built, the plan was set aside in 1974.
M48A5 in the original configuration. Similar to the Magach 3, but had slightly different engine and transmission Continental AVDS-1790-2D and Allison CD-850-6A accordingly. Eventually fitted with Blazer ERA.
A further development of the Vickers Mk I MBT. Developed as a private venture, it has a new fire control system and is powered by a Detroit Diesel 12V-71T turbocharged engine.
Also known as "4030 Phase 3", the rear of the hull was similar to the previous Shir design, as was the gun and fire control, and automative systems, but it had new suspension and sights, as well as Chobham armour on the hull and turret. It was cancelled before delivery, and the tanks already built were reworked at ROF Leeds into the Challenger 1.
Romanian development of the T-54/55, with a longer chassis and 6 road wheels. It was intended to use the same engine as the Leopard 1, but the refusal of Krauss-Maffei to deliver to a Warsaw Pact member meant that the V-55 engine was retained.
Yugoslav upgrade of the T-55A, sharing components with the M-84, a local variant of T-72, whom it was in parallel development with. It include two AT-3 Sagger missile rails, a meteosensor, smoke dischargers, spaced armour, and laser rangefinders from M-84.
Built under licence by ZTS Martin. In Western sources it's often referred to as T-72G. In the late 1980s they received some improvements from the Soviet T-72A programme, including rubber side skirts (instead of "gill armour" and 902B "Tucha" smoke grenade launchers.
A license-built export version of the T-72. Later models fitted with "Tucha" smoke grenade launchers and rubber side skirts, and have an additional 16 mm steel plate welded on the upper glacis plate, like in the T-72M1.
The Ajeya MK1 was an Indian version of the T-72M1. In parallel with buying T-72ms off-the-shelf from the USSR, India also domestically produced it at Heavy Vehicles Factory. The Ajeya MK2 is a development with ERA and 6 smoke dischargers on each side.
The AMX-32 was a French prototype main battle tank developed by AMX and APX during the late 1970s as an export tank to fit in a specific market niche of nations with smaller defence budgets.
T-54/T-55 modernization developed by STO RAVNE and Elbit Systems. Slovenia modernized the 30 T-55 tanks in its inventory. The last was modernized to the M-55S standard in May 1999.
An upgrade of Pakistan's aging Chinese Type 59 tanks, developed with Ukrainian assistance and manufactured by Heavy Industries Taxila, fitted with a 125mm smoothbore gun.
Iranian upgrade of the M47 Patton, It has side skirts and a new turret fitted with a 105-mm gun, laser range finder, new fire control system and communication equipment. Never used in active service.
Ukrainian T-54/T-55 modernization (it can also be applied to the T‑62) bringing them to T-80 standard. Fitted with an opposed piston supercharged diesel engine, automated movement control system, additional passive protection, ERA, countermeasures system, autoloader, and an anti-aircraft machine gun that can be aimed and fired from within the turret.
Third Generation
The third generation of main battle tanks is characterized by composite armour and computer stabilized fire control systems, which allow firing on the move as well as very high first hit probability on targets multiple kilometres away. Many tanks had smoothbore guns with a calibre around 120mm.
First tank solely equipped with a turbine engine (the Strv 103 used a diesel engine alongside a turbine). Early models are considered as intermediate second generation, while T-80U (1985) onwards are third generation.
The T-84 is a further development of the T-80UD. The T-84U is an upgrade with new side skirts, Kontakt-5ERA, muzzle reference system and some other improvements.
The T-84 Oplot is a T-84U with a new welded turret and separate crew and ammunition compartments with blowout panels on the ammunition compartment, and a new bustle-mounted autoloader.
License manufactured in Switzerland of the Leopard 2A4. It includes Swiss-built 7.5mm MG 87 machine guns, communications equipment, and improved NBC protection system. Designated Panzer 87.
The Stridsvagn 122 is based on the German Leopard 2 Imp utilizing newer technology such as command-, control-, and fire-control systems, as well as reinforced armour.
The Leopard 2E is derived from the Leopard 2A6, with greater armour protection, developed as a co-production between the defence industries of Spain and Germany.
The Leopard 2 HEL is a derivative of the Leopard 2A6 that was ordered by the Greek Army in 2003. Around 170 tanks were delivered between 2006 and 2009. A total of 140 were built in Greece by ELBO, which delivered the first units in late 2006.
The Leopard 2A6M CAN turret is modified to include stand-off slat armour. The first 20 were loaned from the German Bundeswehr to increase firepower and protection given to Canadian troops operating in the south of Afghanistan. The loaned tanks retain their German MG3 machine gun. Ex-Dutch ones are also expected to retain their FN MAG machine guns due to commonality with the Canadian C6 GPMG, a variant of the FN MAG
M1A1 production began in 1985, and featured NBC protection, the M256 gun replaced the M68. The M1A2 began production in 1986 and entered service in 1992, and offers an independent hunter-killer thermal sight and depleted uranium armour. The System Enhancement Package in 1992 integrated graphite-coated third generation depleted uranium armour.
Replaced the Chieftain. It is armed with a fully-stabilized L11A5 120mm rifled gun, an improved version of the Chieftain's gun. The Challenger 1 is powered by a Rolls-Royce Condor V12 turbocharged diesel engine. With the introduction of the Challenger 2 into British service, the retired now surplus Challenger 1s were exported to Jordan at no cost.
A replacement for the AMX-32, it was designed to be inexpensive for militaries with smaller defence budgets, and featured a lightly armoured hull and good mobility, however it failed to attract interest and sales, and was discontinued in 1990.
The M-84 is essentially a license-built Soviet T-72 with a number of Yugoslavian sub-systems. By 1992 over 600 had been built. Currently operational with some countries of the former Yugoslavia and Kuwait.
The M-91 Vihor is a Yugoslav prototype, based on the M-84, which is in turn a domestic copy of the T-72. Due to the disintegration of Yugoslavia, it never entered production, and only a few prototypes were made for testing. Its development later led to the M-95 Degman.
The M-95 Degman is a Croatian main battle tank prototype, developed by the Đuro Đaković and developed from the M-91 Vihor tank derived from the T-72. It did not enter full production.
The M-84D is an upgraded version of the M-84 with improvements to its armor, armament, mobility and electronics. 75 to be upgraded, possibly replacing the 125mm 2A46 gun with a NATO 120mm gun.
The M-84AS1 and M-84AS2 are substantially modernized versions of the M-84 designed by the Military Technical Institute and produced by Technical Overhauling Institute "Čačak". Improved revisions were presented in 2020 and 2021.
The EE-T1 Osório was a Brazilian prototype developed by Engesa. Intended first to be exported to other countries, enabling the Brazilian Army to later place orders without having to fund development costs. Initially privately funded by Engesa, but cashflow issues led to the Brazilian government extending a loan to assist the program. It was never adopted for service.
Referred to as the "Type 88" by American engineers. First Main Battle Tank in use with the Republic of Korea Armed Forces, designed by General Dynamics.[13]
The K1A1 is an improved version of the K1, developed by Hyundai Rotem. It is similar to the US M1A1 Abrams in terms of firepower and protection. Production began in 1996, however it only entered service with the ROK Army in 2001. Production ceased in 2010. A total of 484 of these tanks were built.
The Mark III was retired from active service in 2022 but is still the most numerous tank in the IDF's arsenal. Compared to the Mark II, it has upgrades to the drivetrain, powertrain, armament, and electronic systems. It incorporates the locally developed IMI 120 mm gun.
It is a further development of the Merkava Mark 3. In 2014 it was reported, that Israel will begin exporting a number of these tanks to an undisclosed customer.
Intended to replace the Type 61 medium tanks in service with JGSDF. It is armed with RH-M-120 120mm smoothbore gun and fires HEAT-MP and APFSDS-T rounds, but is compatible with all standard NATO 120mm tank ammunition.
A further development of Ch'onma-Ho. The tank may incorporate technology found in the T-62, T-72, and Ch'onma-ho MBTs. The P'okp'ung-ho is only known to be used in North Korea.
A prototype main battle tank completed in the early 1990s. It shared some technology with the Leopard 2 and was intended to replace ageing South African MBTs., but went into service because of funding. Some of the subsystems were applied to the Olifant Mk 2.
A development of the T-72M1. The PT-91 Twardy is an improved variant of the Soviet T-72. Production for Poland was completed in 2002. A total of 233 tanks were delivered. Malaysia ordered 48 PT-91M Pendekar which were delivered in 2007-2009.
The PT-16 is a further development of PT-91 Twardy. Claimed proposed upgrades include improved armor, armament, and mobility. Only non functional mock-up ever built. Prototype never built.[further explanation needed]
Developed by Iveco and OTO Melara. Named in honour of the WW2"Ariete" Armored Division. It was intended to replace M60A1 in service with Italian Army. First prototype was revealed in 1986 and six pre-production vehicles were built in 1989. It entered service in 1995.
Interim development between the Zulfiqar I and III, derived from the former. It had an extended hull and a new engine. It also had a new sloping turret with a bustle at the rear. It never entered service.
A further development and redesign of the Challenger 1. Currently the Challenger 2 is in service with United Kingdom (386) and Oman (38). Armed with the British 120mm L30 rifled gun.
Syrian-Italian upgrade with the addition of the Galileo Avionica TURMS-T computerised FCS, infrared cameras, improved gun and sight stabilisation, and 9M119 Svir/Refleks launch capability. Between 1998 and 2000, T-72M1s and T-72AVs were upgraded to this standard, with very few of the upgraded T-72AVs retaining their ERA after being upgraded.
The Black Eagle tank (Object 640), was a presumed prototype Russian tank, thought to have been developed in the late 1990s. A production version of this tank has never been publicly demonstrated. It is a T-80 variant which has helped development of the T-14 Armata.
T-95 (Object 195), was developed at Uralvagonzavod from 1988 until its cancelation in 2010. Little about it is publicly known. Work from it was used in the T-14 Armata, which began production in 2016.
The most advanced variant of the Zulfiqar family, bearing a resemblance to the M1 Abrams. It features upgrades to the fire-control system, chassis, engine and main gun. The new variant is equipped with an autoloaded2A46 125mm smoothbore cannon, laser rangefinder and a new fire-control system.
The M60-2000 or 120S was initially aimed at the Turkish Land Forces Command (TLFC) M60 upgrade requirement but this competition was subsequently won by Israel Military Industries with their Sabra II upgrade. The Egyptian Army was considering this offer until it was finally rejected in favor of a licensed contract to build M1s in Egypt.[14] Only one prototype was made.
It is a development of the Type 98. The Type 99 was revealed in 2000 and entered service with the Chinese Army in 2001. It shows a mixture of Russian and Western influence in its design and technology. An improved version was presented in 2017. Currently it is the most advanced Chinese MBT.
Jointly developed by China and Pakistan. It is a further development of the Chinese Type 90-II tank, which was not accepted to service with the Chinese Army. In the late 1990s it was marketed for export as the MBT-2000. Pakistan acquired a production license. Named after Khalid ibn al-Walid. First deliveries of this tank were made in 2002. It is currently in service with Pakistan.
Al-Khalid I is an upgraded variant with additional ammunition capacity. It has an improved fire-control system with a more advanced multi process fire control computer with up to 7km effective identification range.
Experimental hybrid prototype with turret of Arjun and hull of T-72. It underwent six months of trials, but was subsequently rejected by the Indian Army.
Outside parties codename the tank M-2002 because the tank went through performance trials on February 16, 2002 (therefore being officially confirmed by outside sources), although the tank may have been in existence since 1992.
Upgraded Czech version of the T-72 tank. The T-72 main battle tank was licensed-produced in the former Czechoslovakia but after it's dissolution in the early 1990s, upgrade programs were developed both in Czechia and Slovakia to keep their fleets of T-72 MBTs operational and combat capable.
The M60 Phoenix is a Jordanian upgrade of the M60A3 main battle tank. The gun was replaced by a Swiss RUAG CTG fully-stabilized 120mm/L50 smoothbore gun, compatible with all standard NATO 120mm tank ammunition.
The first prototype was built in 1989, and 15 pre-production prototypes by 1996. Production variant entered service in 2004. MK1A variant of Arjun was developed and entered service with the Indian Army in 2021.
The C2 Ariete was revealed in 2005. It has a modular armor, 120mm smoothbore gun fitted with an autoloader, hydropneumatic suspension, 1500hp engine and more advanced fire control system.
An improved T-90S developed with assistance from Russia and France. Equipped with the French Thales-built Catherine-FC thermal sights, Russian Kontakt-5 explosive reactive armour, in addition to primary armor which consists of laminated plates and ceramic layers with high-tensile properties.
It is an upgraded version of the Type 96, fitted with explosive reactive armor and thermal imaging system, intended to approach the Type 99 in overall performance. It is also proposed for export customers as the VT2B. In 2016 a new version emerged, fitted with a new engine and various improved systems.
Taiwanese 2019 Service Life Extension Program (SLEP) modular update of the M60A3 in conjunction with Elbit Systems. Includes MG251/L44 120 mm gun with a semi-automatic load assist, Elbit Knight FCS, laser range finder, an independent commander's thermal sight, an RWR/IR warning system, improved suspension and NBC protection, and modular active and reactive armour packages.
The Leopard 2NG (Next Generation) is a privately funded Turkish upgrade by ASELSAN that includes AMAP, upgraded optics, overhauled turret mechanics, and a new fire control system which is also intended to be used on the new Altay MBT. It was developed without an order from the Turkish Army, but might meet the requirements for the modernization of the Turkish Leopard 2A4s.
Merkava Mark IV equipped with the Trophy active protection system (APS), designated "Meil Ruach" (Hebrew: מעיל רוח; "Windbreaker"). The Merkava IVm now equips all active service combat brigades.
The newest and most sophisticated version of the T-84 is an upgraded version of the "T-84 Oplot" mounting more advanced armor, new electronic countermeasure systems, and the new PNK-6 panoramic tank sight. The T-84 Oplot-T is an export version for Thailand.
The main features include the modernisation of the old turret design, which is equipped with the advanced "Kalina" fire control system, improved armour on the ammo carousel, and a upgraded 2A46M-5 gun, as well as a remote-controlled anti-aircraft gun "UDP T05BV-1". T-90MS is the export version, also known as T-90SM.
The Type 99G is a Chinese main battle tank. It is an improved version of the Type 99, which was adopted by the Chinese Army back in 2001. This tank is also referred as the Type 99A, Type 99A1 and Type 99A2. It has a number of improvements over the baseline Type 99, related with fire control, targeting and countermeasures systems and modified suspension.
The 2A7+ has improved mobility, sustainability, and due to a modular protection kit, improved survivability. It's modular design makes it suitable for urban warfare and high-intensity conflicts. It has advanced IED, mine, and RPG protection. It can fire programmable HE munitions enable it to engage targets behind cover and is equipped with the FLW200 remote weapon station.[19] The tank also has an adaptable dozer blade to clear obstructions, and third generation thermal sights for both commander and gunner. Hungary ordered 44 of these, making them the second operator of the improved version, after Qatar.
The VT4 is a Chinese main battle tank, developed specially for export. It is also known as the MBT-3000. It is being marketed by NORINCO. This tank can be seen as a simplified export version of the Type 99G, which is used by the China's Army. The VT4 is a further development of the VT1A, which is in turn a downgraded export version of the Type 99.
Up to 300 units, new "Relikt" ERA, PNM Sosna-U gunner sight (as in T-90 and T-72B3), improved 2A46M-4 125mm gun, upgraded gas turbine engine, and upgrade of various other systems. Currently being delivered.
The SEPv3 (formerly designated M1A2C) has improved power and communications systems, an Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) to power electronics while stationary, improved counter-IED armour, improved FLIR cameras, and replaceable modules for improved maintenance, CROWS, and a next generation armor package. Passive protection added to the turret faces, along with new ERA and Trophy APS added to the turret sides. It can also fire airburst rounds.
The commander and gunner's primary sights, would have been be upgraded with third-gen FLIR, an improved laser rangefinder and color cameras. It was also to feature advanced meteorological sensors, the AN/VVR-4 laser warning system, a new smoke grenade system and the XM1147 advanced multi-purpose (AMP) tank round. The SEPv4 was cancelled in September 2023 in favor of a new M1E3 which will include many of the SEPv4's features while reducing the tank's weight.[20]
Iranian MBT claimed to be on a par with the Russian T-90M and American M1A2. Both Iran and Russia, however, deny any Russian involvement in the project outside of the hull's original production.
Modernized version of the Leopard 2A4 tank, used by the Polish Armed Forces. The upgrade included a new commander's control and monitoring system, the installation of an auxiliary power unit (APU), a new turret stowage compartment for crew equipment, the modernization of its main gun to use new types of programmable ammunition, and the integration of day/night rear camera for drivers. Included are customized towing vehicles due to the increased weight of the upgraded tank.
The Arjun Mk 1A is an improved variant of the Arjun main battle tank. It has a redesigned turret protected with Kanchan composite armour, ERA and NERA. It has ALWCS active protection system and DRDO developed health monitoring system. Arjun MK1A has capability to fire indigenous gun-launched dual purpose missile viz, SAMHO. Arjun MK1A entered service with the Indian Army in 2021.
The Ariete AMV is a mid life update (Ammodernamento di Mezza Vita) of the Ariete for 125 units and includes: Upgraded IVECO V12 MTCA with common-rail injection and 1,500 hp, upgraded transmission, new tracks, new electronics and optronics (LOTHAR SD for the gunner, Multispectral ATTILA D for the commander), add-on armor and mine protection and integration of SICCONA battlefield management system.
The Merkava Mark 4 "Barak" (Lightning) is planned to enter service in 2023. The tank will have an upgraded Trophy APS, 360-degree day/night camera coverage for boosted situational awareness, a fighter jet–style heads-up display for the tank commander, and new sensors enabling it to independently acquire targets and strike them rapidly, as well as having electronic warfare abilities and advanced processing systems, and a directed energy system capable of intercepting drones and cruise missiles.
Main battle tank designed and manufactured by the Heavy Industries Taxila for the Pakistan Army. It has various improvements in all aspects of mobility, protection and firepower. Features 125mm smoothbore gun, advanced fire control system that contains a variety of sensors and targeting devices and a new composite armor with ERA.[23][24][25]
Next Generation
The next generation of main battle tanks in development has autoloaders becoming increasingly more common, even in western designs, with some moving all of the crew into a more heavily protected hull space with unmanned turrets. The tendency to increase calibre sizes continues, with multiple designs having capability for 140mm guns to be fitted. A greater focus on active protection systems, especially against drones and loitering munition is also present, as is the introduction of AI-assisted systems.[26]
Development began in the 1990s, entered service in 2012. Heavy emphasis was placed on C4I capabilities as well as on performance, firepower, protection and mobility. The tank features an autoloader with a reload time of about 3.5 seconds and modular armor, which can be configured as needed. Thanks to size and weight reduction 84% of Japan's 17,920 bridges are passable for the Type 10, compared to only 65% for the Type 90 and 40% for mainstream western main battle tanks.
The development project was completed in 2008, but mass production was delayed when the company later decided to develop a domestic power pack, and it began to be serviced after being deployed to the South Korean Army from 2014. A total of 150 units will be produced for the fourth batch from 2024 to 2028.
Not in active service. First batch of 12 prototypes was delivered in 2015. In December 2021, the state-owned Rostec Corporation announced the start of serial production of 40 (which were not produced up to 2023). Its engine develops 1 350 hp (1 500 hp peak). It has a new Malakhit add-on explosive reactive armor. It uses electrical armament stabilization with an unmanned turret. It is armed with a 2A82 125 mm smoothbore gun.
Newest upgrade package part of the SCORPION program. Inclusion of new tactical interfaces, new armor packages, RWS turret, as well as several additional sensors and grenade launchers. First units delivered in 2023, with a total fleet of 200 Leclerc XLR by 2030.
Turkish modern main battle tank based on South Korean K2 Black Panther developed by Otokar and produced by BMC under design assistance and technology transfer by Hyundai Rotem. Currently not in active service, only prototypes.[34]
A development of the Challenger 2 Life Extension Programme (LEP), the Challenger 3 has an all new turret with an improved hull. The L30A1 120 mm rifled gun has been replaced with the new NATO-Standard Rheinmetall L55A1 120 mm smoothbore gun; itself a derivative of Rheinmetall Rh-120 120 mm gun currently used in the Leopard 2A6 and 2A7. The Challenger 3 is due to enter service in 2025 with the total fleet being 148 tanks.
Variably referred to as the Arjun MK2, Next Generation Main Battle Tank (NGMBT) or Future MBT (FMBT), the FMBT is an upcoming main battle tank developed by DRDO for the Indian Army.
A modified version of Leclerc XLR, intended mainly for export.[36] Tank is equipped with a turret armed with the ASCALON (Autoloaded and SCALable Outperforming guN) gun, capable of firing 120 or 140 mm shells, an ARX30 turret, a PASEO sight coupled with a 7.62 mm machine gun, a "Trophy" active protection system and the ability to use remotely operated ammunition.[36]
EMBT (also E-MBT, European Main Battle Tank, Enhanced Main Battle Tank) is a French-German prototype of the enhanced main battle tank developed and manufactured by the KNDS.[37] First prototype was presented during the Eurosatory 2018,[38] the second in 2022,[39] and the third prototype in 2024 and features a 140-millimeter autoloaded ASCALON gun, coaxial automatic 20mm gun and a 30mm ARX 30RWS.[37] The tank features six anti-drone radars, four laser/missile warning sensors, and an acoustic gunfire locator for enhanced situational awareness.[37] EMBT also includes the Prometheus active protection system, AI-enabled “SAFE” fire control system, to assist the autonomous selection and queuing of weapon systems to prosecute targets in order of priority.[40] It is also serving as a technology demonstrator for the MGCS specification.[40] Expected to replace the European Leopard 2 and Leclerc XLR tanks.[37][41]
Technology demonstrator created by Rheinmetall, armed with a 130mm gun. In August 2023, Hungary announced that it will join the development,[46] and signed a $288 million contract in December to begin full-scale production.[47] At Eurosatory 2024, Rheinmetall showcased the CUT (Concept Unmanned Turret) mounted on the KF51 platform.[48] In November 2024, Italy announced it's intent to buy 132 Panther KF51s.[49]
In 2024, Chinese state media showcase images of China's next generation smart main battle tank. Suggested to will feature a 2-man crew and an integrated active protection system. A simulated cockpit showcase the tank's ability to be controlled unmanned. The tank is expected to rely on great levels of automation with reliance on AI to relieve the maintenance workload on the crew. It is expected to integrate features from the T-95 program, including a fully unmanned turret, armoured capsule, ability to control drones to support tank combat operations, and field-replaceable armor modules.[50][51][52][53] Reported to feature a lightweight design of around 40 tons with electromagnetic armor. Other configurations may include a 30-ton light version and a 50-ton heavy version. Two possible variants were sighted pointing to different caliber guns, likely 105mm and 125mm.[54]
Unveiled at Eurosatory 2024 as a "next-gen tank" to enter service before the MGCS, it features an unmanned turret with an autoloaded 120mm smoothbore gun, which moves along two pivot points to keep it above the chassis at all times, and a 30mm remote controlled weapon station. It also has potential to have the main gun upgraded to more powerful 130mm or 140mm calibre guns for longer range.[55][56]
Developed at the express request of the Bundeswehr as an interim or alternative vehicle to the MGCS, envisioned as a "substantial improvement over the Leopard 2A8" with advanced passive and active protection systems, improved armament and ammunition, and enhanced connectivity and digital command interoperability in multinational operations.[57]
In September 2023 Germany and France announced to be working on next generation main battle tank,[59] a successor to the Leopard 2 and Leclerc XLR tank.[41] In 2024, two models: Leclerc Evolution and EMBT ADT140 were presented that will be technology demonstrators for the future system.[60][61][62] In addition to France and Germany, six another European states are also interested in the program: Belgium, Italy,[59] Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and United Kingdom.[59]
↑ "The Canadian Directorate of Land Strategic Concept defines three generations of Main Battle Tanks. The first generation of post World War II Main Battle Tanks includes the U.S. M48/M60, the German Leopard 1 and the British Centurion and Chieftain. The second generation includes most of the 120mm Main Battle Tanks such as the American M1A1, the German Leopard 2 and the British Challenger. As for the third generation Main Battle Tank, they include the latest 'digital' tank such as the French Leclerc and perhaps the American M1A2 and the German Leopard 2A5."
Note to the Pancerni website source: Translation of most important parts of 1st, 2nd, 2.5 and 3rd generation MBTs characteristics: "The first generation MBTs are tanks made immediately after WWII. The second generation MBTs have better sights in comparison to the first generation MBTs. Also second generation MBTs were the first ones to use laser sights and APFSDS rounds. The third generation consists of tanks armed with high caliber and velocity guns like M1A1 Abrams. Third generation tanks also use composite armour as well as armour made out of highly resistant sintered ceramic materials. Third generation tanks also have full stabilization system for the main gun. There are tanks between second and third generations, like Soviet T-72 which has powerful gun which would classify it as a third generation MBT but at the same time the stabilization system is much too primitive for it to a third generation MBT. It also lacks engine power to be a third generation MBT and has ammunition with less quality."
Citations
↑ Sewell, Stephen 'Cookie' (1998). "Why Three tanks?"(PDF). Armor. 108 (4). US Army Armor Center, Fort Knox, KY: 46. Archived from the original(PDF) on 2007-06-28. The Soviets saw tank generations in this manner: 1920–1945, first generation; 1946–1960, second generation; 1961–1980, third generation; and 1981–present, fourth generation. Since the last really new tank design, the T-80, came out in 1976, they feel that they have not produced a true Fourth Generation Tank Design. In comparison, they count the M1, Challenger, and Leopard 2 as Fourth Generation and the LeClerc as Fifth Generation.
↑ "Tank T-72M4 CZ" (in Czech). Army of the Czech Republic official website. Archived from the original on October 5, 2015. Retrieved December 14, 2015.
Hilmes, Rolf (1983). Kampfpanzer: der Die Entwickelungen der Nachkriegszeit (in German). Frankfurt am Main: Verlag Soldat und Technik. ISBN3-524-89001-6. OCLC13410347.
Hunnicutt, R. P. (1984). Patton: A History of the American Main Battle Tank. Novato, Calif.: Presidio Press. ISBN0-89141-230-1. OCLC471892846.
The FV4034 Challenger 2 is a third generation British main battle tank (MBT) in service with the armies of the United Kingdom, Oman, and Ukraine.
The Kampfpanzer Leopard is a main battle tank designed by Porsche and manufactured by Krauss-Maffei in West Germany, first entering service in 1965. Developed in an era when HEAT warheads were thought to make conventional heavy armour of limited value, the Leopard design focused on effective firepower and mobility instead of heavy protection. It featured moderate armour, only effective against low caliber autocannons and heavy machine guns, giving it a high power-to-weight ratio. This, coupled with a modern suspension and drivetrain, gave the Leopard superior mobility and cross-country performance compared to most other main battle tanks of the era, only being rivaled by the French AMX-30 and Swedish Strv 103. The main armament of the Leopard consisted of a German license-built version of the British Royal Ordnance L7 105 mm rifled gun, one of the most effective and widespread tank guns of the era.
The Leclerc is a third-generation French main battle tank developed and manufactured by Nexter Systems. It was named in honour of Marshal Philippe Leclerc de Hauteclocque, a commander of the Free French Forces, who led the 2nd Armoured Division in World War II.
The Leopard 2 is a third generation German main battle tank (MBT). Developed by Krauss-Maffei in the 1970s, the tank entered service in 1979 and replaced the earlier Leopard 1 as the main battle tank of the West German army. Various iterations of the Leopard 2 continue to be operated by the armed forces of Germany, as well as 13 other European countries, and several non-European countries, including Canada, Chile, Indonesia, and Singapore. Some operating countries have licensed the Leopard 2 design for local production and domestic development.
The Rheinmetall Rh-120 is a 120 mm smoothbore tank gun designed and produced in former West Germany by the Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH company. It was developed in response to Soviet advances in armour technology and development of new armoured threats. Production began in 1974, with the first version of the gun, known as the L/44 as it was 44 calibres long, used on the German Leopard 2 tank and soon produced under license for the American M1A1 Abrams and other tanks. The 120-millimetre (4.7 in) gun has a length of 5.28 metres (17.3 ft), and the gun system weighs approximately 3,317 kilograms (7,313 lb).
Eurosatory is the largest international exhibition for the land and air-land defence and security industry. It is held every two years in the Paris-Nord Villepinte Exhibition Centre, Paris, France. In 2022, it gathered over 1,700 exhibitors and approximately 62,000 visitors from 150 countries. It is organised by COGES Events, a subsidiary of GICAT.
Tulpar is a Turkish heavy infantry fighting vehicle designed by the Sakarya-based automotive manufacturer Otokar. It is named after the Tulpar, a winged horse in Turkic mythology.
The post–Cold War era is the period in world history from the collapse of the Soviet Union on December 27, 1991 to the present. During the Cold War, the Soviet domination of the Warsaw Pact led to effective standardization on a few tank designs. In comparison, France, Germany, the United States, and the United Kingdom had previously developed their own tank designs, but now tried to standardize their designs, while the smaller nations of NATO purchased or adapted these designs.
KNDS, formerly KMW+Nexter Defense Systems, is a European defence industry holding company, which is the result of a merger between Krauss-Maffei Wegmann and Nexter Systems. The joint holding company is headquartered in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
The Lynx is a German armoured fighting vehicle developed by Rheinmetall Landsysteme. The Lynx, configured as a KF31 infantry fighting vehicle (IFV), was unveiled at the Eurosatory defence exhibition on 14 June 2016. The KF41 variant was unveiled at the Eurosatory defence exhibition on 12 June 2018.
The Main Ground Combat System (MGCS) is a project launched in 2017 by Germany and France, aiming to replace their current Leopard 2 and Leclerc main battle tanks. Coordinated by Germany, in contrast to the other major Franco-German program launched in 2018, the MGCS will not be a single armoured fighting vehicle, but a series of systems conceived around said vehicle.
The AEV 3 Kodiak is a Leopard 2 main battle tank (MBT) based armoured engineering vehicle that can be used for a wide variety of battlefield engineering, infrastructure and support roles. These roles can include, but would not be limited to, minefield breaching, route denial, dozing and digging tasks, and the erection or demolition of obstacles. The vehicle was originally developed for a Swiss Army requirement by the consortium of Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH (Germany) and RUAG Defence (Switzerland).
The Leopard 2PL is a main battle tank used by the Polish Armed Forces, and is a modernized version of the older Leopard 2A4 tank, phased out by Germany and first acquired by Poland in the 2000s. The modernisation is currently being carried out in cooperation with Rheinmetall and the Polish Armaments Group.
120×570mm NATO tank ammunition, also known as 120×570mmR, is a common, NATO-standard, tank gun semi-combustible cartridge used by 120mm smoothbore guns, superseding the earlier 105×617mmR cartridge used in NATO-standard rifled tank guns.
Challenger 3 (CR3) is a British fourth-generation main battle tank in development for the British Army. It will be produced by the conversion of existing Challenger 2 tanks by the British/German Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land joint venture.
The Panther KF51 is a German fourth-generation main battle tank (MBT) that is under development by Rheinmetall Landsysteme. It was unveiled publicly at the Eurosatory defence exhibition on 13 June 2022.
The Leclerc XLR is a French fourth-generation main battle tank (MBT) developed and manufactured by the Nexter division of KMW+Nexter Defense Systems (KNDS). It is a modernization of the third-generation Leclerc tank with the addition of a turret-mounted remotely-operated 7.62mm caliber machine gun manufactured by Belgian company FN Herstal, additional modular armour on the turret and hull, and rear wire cage armour to protect the engine compartment against rocket propelled grenades.
EMBT is a French-German prototype of the enhanced fourth-generation main battle tank (MBT) developed and manufactured by the KMW+Nexter Defense Systems (KNDS). The tank was presented during the Eurosatory 2018, and 2022. The new version was presented during the Eurosatory 2024.
Leclerc Evolution is a French prototype of the enhanced fourth-generation main battle tank (MBT) developed and manufactured by the KNDS France.
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