British Centurion Main Battle TankT-54 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.
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. Later models (M60A2 and M60A3) are sometimes considered as the first intermediate generation. The M60A2 was developed with a new turret housing an M162 152mm gun/launcher.
A further development of the T-55, mainly a new 115mm cannon and enlarged chassis. First tank fitted with a smoothbore tank gun that could fire APFSDS round.
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.
Swiss Main Battle Tank (MBT) based on the Panzer 61. Improvements consisted of wider tracks, stabilized gun, and the introduction of a second machine gun instead of the coaxial 20mm gun of early Panzer 61 models.
M48A5 in the original configuration. Generally similar to the Magach 3, but had slightly different engine and transmission Continental AVDS-1790-2D and Allison CD-850-6A accordingly. They were eventually fitted with Blazer ERA.
The Vickers Mk III is a further development of the Vickers Mk I MBT. It was developed as a private venture, armed with the same gun as the Mk I, the Mk III has a new fire control system. It is powered by a Detroit Diesel 12V-71T turbocharged diesel engine, providing 720 horsepower.
Romanian development of the T-54/55, with an extended chassis and 6 road wheels, originally intended to allow the usage of the same engine as the Leopard 1. The refusal of Krauss-Maffei to deliver technology to a Warsaw Pact member and political desire to reach certain production figures meant that the V-55 engine was retained.
Yugoslav upgrade of the T-55A, intended for modernization of YPA's aging fleet of T-55s. It shared components with the M-84, a local version of T-72, with whom it was in parallel development. Major improvements included external mounting of 2 rails for AT-3 Sagger missiles, a simplified SUV with meteosensor and laser rangefinders from M-84, addition of spaced armor on turret and front body, and installation of smoke dispensers.
This model was built under licence by ZTS Martin. In Western sources it is often referred to as T-72G which might be the designator for the version exported to the Middle East. In the late 1980s the tanks produced for the Czechoslovak army and for export as well were fitted with some improvements from the Soviet T-72A programme, including rubber side skirts (instead of "gill armour") and 902B "Tucha" smoke grenade launchers.
This export version of the T-72 was built under license by Bumar-Łabędy in Gliwice starting in 1982. Like Soviet tanks, the Polish T-72M was initially fitted with "gill" armor; later the tanks were upgraded with rubber side skirts and 902W "Tucha" smoke grenade launchers. Late production models have an additional 16 mm steel plate welded on the upper glacis plate, like in the T-72M1.
Indian version of the T-72M1. In parallel with buying various T-72M off-the-shelf from the Soviet Union, India also launched its domestic production at Heavy Vehicles Factory. The Ajeya MK2 is a further development of the T-72M1 with ERA and banks of 6 smoke grenade-launchers 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.
Main battle tank designed by Bernardini; however, it never reached production status and it never passed beyond the prototype stage. The final model, the Tamoyo III was armed with a NATO105 mm L7 rifled main gun.
TR-85M1 Bizonul was a modernization of the TR-85, the TR-85M1 "Bizonul" (the Bison) project began in 1996, as an effort to bring it up to date with other NATO countries. The project was a cooperative effort between Aerospatiale-Matra, Sagem, Kolmorgen-Artus, Racal and Romanian factories, such as ROMARM, METRA, I.O.R. and Aerostar.
T-54/T-55 modernization developed by the STO RAVNE company and engineers of the Israeli company Elbit Systems. Slovenia modernized 30 T-55 tanks in the inventory of its armed forces. The last T-55 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 the Heavy Industries Taxila, featuring a 125mm smoothbore gun as primary weapon.
Main battle tank based on the Soviet T-54/55 tank, developed and manufactured jointly by the Peruvian company DICSAC (Diseños Casanave Corporation S.A.C. of Peru) and the Kharkiv Morozov Machine Building Design Bureau, Ukraine. Trials/Development only to date.
Iranian upgraded version of the US M47 Patton, It has side skirts and a newly built 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 brings up the T-54/T-55 tanks to T-80 standard. It can also be applied to Chinese made Type 59 and Soviet T-62. It is fitted with 5TDFM, two-stroke liquid-cooled multi-fuel supercharged diesel engine with opposed pistons which develops 850hp (634kW), improved running gear, automated movement control system with a steering handlebar control, additional passive protection, built-in explosive reactive armour, countermeasures system, new fire suppression system with over-ride facilities at the commander's station, automatic loader which holds 18 rounds and anti-aircraft machine gun that can be aimed and fired from within the turret under a complete armour protection.
Third
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 up to 2,000 meters away.
World's first tank solely equipped with a turbine engine (the Swedish Strv 103 that entered service in 1960s used a turbine engine alongside a diesel). The earliest models are considered as intermediate second generation, while models from T-80U (1985) onwards are third generation.
The T-84 is a Ukrainian main battle tank. It is a further development of the T-80UD. Development of the T-80UD began in the late 1980s. Models of the T-84 include the T-84U with new armored side skirts, built-in Kontakt-5 explosive reactive armor, muzzle reference system and some other improvements.
The T-84 Oplot is a T-84U with a new welded turret with separate crew and ammunition compartments with blowout panels on the ammunition compartment, a new bustle-mounted autoloader.
License manufactured in Switzerland of the Leopard 2A4. This version included Swiss-built 7.5mm MG 87 machine guns, communications equipment, and featured improved NBC protection system. Switzerland operated 380 Panzer 87.
The Stridsvagn 122 is a Swedish main battle tank based on the German Leopard 2 Improved variant utilizing newer technology such as command-, control-, and fire-control systems, as well as reinforced armour and long-term combat capacity.
The Leopard 2E is a derivative of the Leopard 2A6, with greater armour protection, developed under a programme of 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 – the "HEL" stands for "Hellenic". 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 is a Canadian variant of the Leopard 2A6M. Significant modifications include distinctive black boxes mounted on the rear of the turret bustle, and stand-off slat armour. The first tanks configured in this variant were 20 loaned from the German Bundeswehr in an effort to increase firepower and protection given to Canadian troops operating in the south of Afghanistan. The loaned tanks retain their German MG3 machine gun, the ex-Dutch tanks are also expected to retain their FN MAG machine guns due to commonality with Canadian stocks of C6 GPMG, itself a variant of the FN MAG.
Production began (at Chrysler) in 1979 and continued to 1985 (at General Dynamics) (3,273 built for the US). M1A1 began production in 1985 till 1992, and featured a pressurized NBC system, rear bustle rack for improved stowage of supplies and crew belongings, redesigned blow-off panels and M256 120 mm smoothbore cannon (4,976 built for the U.S. Army, 221 for USMC, 59 M1A1 AIM SA sold to Australia). The M1A2 began production in 1986 and entered service in 1992 (77 built for the U.S. and more than 600 M1s upgraded to M1A2, 315 for Saudi Arabia, 1,005 for Egypt, 218 for Kuwait). The M1A2 offers the tank commander an independent thermal sight and ability to, in rapid sequence, shoot at two targets without the need to acquire each one sequentially, also 2nd generation depleted uranium armor components. In 1992 the System Enhancement Package (SEP) has upgraded third-generation depleted uranium armor components with graphite coating (240 new built, 300 M1A2s upgraded to M1A2 SEP for the US, also unknown numbers of upgraded basic M1s and M1IPs, also 400 oldest M1A1s upgraded to M1A2 SEP).
Replaced FV 4201 Chieftain. The Challenger 1 is armed with a fully-stabilized British L11A5 120 mm rifled gun. It is a significantly improved version of the Chieftain's gun. It is extremely accurate, however it was fitted with slow fire control system. The Challenger 1 is powered by a Rolls-Royce Condor CV12-1200TCA turbocharged diesel engine, developing 1200hp.
The AMX-40 was a French main battle tank developed by GIAT during the latter stages of the Cold War as an export tank to replace the earlier AMX-32. Designed to be an inexpensive tank orientated towards militaries with smaller defence budgets, the AMX-40 featured a lightly armoured hull and good mobility reminiscent of previous French MBTs with a powerful 120 mm cannon. It however failed to attract interest and sales, rendering the project a failure, being discontinued in 1990.
The M-84 main battle tank is essentially the Soviet T-72, produced under license. However it has a number of Yugoslavian sub-systems. Production of the M-84 began in 1983 and first vehicles entered service in 1984. By 1992 over 600 had been built. Currently it is operational with some countries of the former Yugoslavia and Kuwait.
The M-91 Vihor is a Yugoslav main battle tank prototype, based on the M-84, which is in turn, a Yugoslav-made licensed copy of the Russian T-72. Due to the Disintegration of Yugoslavia, it never entered production, and only a few prototypes were made, mainly 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 company and is largely based on the M-91 Vihor tank that which is turn based in the M-84 tank. The Degman M-95 has not entered serial 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 main battle tank designed by the Military Technical Institute and produced by Technical Overhauling Institute "Čačak" in Serbia. The first version designated as M-84AS1 was presented in 2017. Later revisions feature numerous improvements and were presented in 2020 and 2021.
The Engesa EE-T1 Osório was a Brazilian main battle tank prototype developed by Engesa. The tank was intended to be sold first to Arab and other Third World countries, jump-starting production and enabling the Brazilian Army to later place its own orders without having to fund development costs. Development of the tank was initially privately funded by Engesa, but cashflow issues eventually led to the Brazilian government extending a loan to assist the program. Two prototypes of the tank were built, but the EE-T1 was never adopted for service.
The K1A1 main battle tank is an improved version of the K1 88-Tank. It was developed in South Korea by Hyundai Rotem. It is broadly similar to the US M1A1 Abrams in terms of firepower and protection. First production vehicle was completed in 1996, however it entered service with the ROK Army only in 2001. Production ceased in 2010. A total of 484 of these tanks were reportedly built.
As of 2022, the Merkava III was retired from active service but is still the most numerous tank in the IDF's arsenal. Compared to the Merkava Mark II, it has upgrades to the drivetrain, powertrain, armament, and electronic systems. The most prominent addition was the incorporation of the locally developed IMI 120 mm gun.
The Merkava Mark IV entered service with Israel Defense Forces in 2004. It is a further development of the Merkava Mark 3. Now they equip the 460th training brigade and the 4th reserve brigade. For a long time these tanks were not available for export, though some of the tank's systems and components were offered for the export customers. However, in 2014 it was reported, that Israel will export a number of these tanks to an undisclosed customer, possibly Colombia.
Development commenced in 1976. It was intended to replace the Type 61 medium tanks in service with Japanese Ground Self-Defense Forces (JGSDF). The new tank was developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in cooperation with German Krauss-Maffei and MaK tank manufacturers. It is armed with German Rheinmetall RH-M-120 120mm smoothbore gun, which was produced in Japan under license by Japan Steel Works. It fires HEAT-MP and APFSDS-T rounds, but is also 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.
Replaced AMX 30. The Leclerc main battle tank was developed by GIAT Industries. Its development began in 1978 and first prototypes were built in 1989. Production of the Leclerc started in 1991. It is named in honor to general Philippe Leclerc, commander of French armored division during World War II. It is in service with France (406) and United Arab Emirates (388).
The TTD or Tank Technology Demonstrator prototype main battle tank was completed in the early 1990s. It used some German Leopard 2 technology and was intended to replace ageing South African MBTs. Only a prototype has been built and the TTD never went into service because of limited funding. Some of the TTD subsystems were applied to the Olifant Mk 2. These upgraded MBTs are expected to serve well into the 21st century.
A development of the T-72M1. The PT-91 Twardy (tough) is an improved variant of the Soviet T-72 main battle tank. The PT-91 was developed in Poland in the early 1990s. Production of the PT-91 Twardy tanks for the Polish Army was completed in 2002. A total of 233 tanks were delivered. Malaysia ordered 48 PT-91M Pendekar which were delivered in 2007-2009. Currently Polish Army also operates 120 older T-72M1 tanks (with additional 470 tanks mothballed, actual number of machines in working condition is unknown).
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]
The Ariete (ram) main battle tank (also referred as the C-1) was developed by Iveco and OTO Melara. It is named in honor to Italian Ariete armored division, which fought during World War II. This main battle tank was intended to replace ageing fleet of M60A1 in service with Italian Army. First prototype of the C1 Ariete was revealed in 1986 and six pre-production vehicles were built in 1989. It entered service with Italian army in 1995. Italy operates 200 of this type.
Further development of the Zulfiqar I. It is an interim MBT, which served as a test bed for the Zulfiqar III. It had an extended hull and was fitted with new engine. It also has a new turret with sloping front and bustle at the rear. This may indicate removal of the autoloader, or possibly, a new autoloader. Prototype, never entered service.
Further development of the Challenger 1. The new main battle tank is significantly more capable than its predecessor. It entered service with the British Army in 1994. 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, including infrared cameras, improved gun stabilisation, stabilised sights for the gunner and the commander, and capability to launch 9M119 Svir/Refleks ATGMs. 124 T-72M1s and T-72AVs were upgraded to this standard between 1998 and 2000. Very few of the upgraded T-72AVs retained their explosive reactive armour after being upgraded.
The Black Eagle tank (Russian: Чёрный Орёл, Chyornyy Oryol or Object 640), was a presumed prototype main battle tank produced in the Russian Federation. It was thought to have been developed by the KBTM design bureau in Omsk in the late 1990s. A production version of this tank has never been publicly demonstrated. The Black Eagle has been cancelled, with all production and development halted. It is a T-80 variant which has helped development of the T-14 Armata.
T-95, or Object 195, is the common informal designation of a Russian main battle tank that was under development at Uralvagonzavod from 1988 until its cancelation in 2010. Little about the tank is publicly known. The work from the Object 195 was used in the Object 148, later type classified as the T-14 Armata, which began production in 2016.
The most advanced variant of the Zulfiqar family which was selected for production, bears an uncanny resemblance to the American M1 Abrams. It features considerable upgrades to the fire-control system, chassis, engine and main gun. The new variant is equipped with the 2A46 125mm smoothbore cannon with an autoloader, a laser rangefinder and a new fire-control system. It is also fitted with a reinforced turret and the wheels are covered by an armoured skirt.
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.
The Type 99 main battle tank is a further development of the Type 98. It is generally similar to the Type 98, but has a number of improvements. The Type 99 was revealed in 2000 and entered service with the Chinese Army in 2001. This main battle tank shows a mixture of Russian and Western influence in its design and technology. As of 2017 improved version of this tank is produced in China. Currently it is the most advanced Chinese main battle tank.
The Al Khalid main battle tank was 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. The Al Khalid is named after the legendary general Khalid ibn al-Walid. First deliveries of this tank were made in 2002. The Al Khalid is currently in service with Pakistan.
Al-Khalid I is an upgraded variant with Ammunition capacity increased to 49 125mm rounds, 1,500 12.7mm rounds and 7,100 7.62mm rounds. Incorporates modifications made to the fire-control system which is now 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. It entered service with the Czechoslovakian Army in 1981. After the dissolution of the Czechoslovakia in the early 1990s upgrade programs were developed both in Czech Republic 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. It was developed by the King Abdullah Design and Development Bureau (now Jordan Design and Development Bureau). A total of 182 Jordanian M60A3 tanks were reportedly upgraded to the Phoenix standard. A 105mm rifled gun was replaced by a Swiss RUAG CTG fully-stabilized 120mm/L50 smoothbore gun. It is compatible with all standard NATO 120mm tank ammunition. The Jordanian M60 Phoenix is notable for packing heavier punch than other upgunned M60s, that have 120mm/L44 guns.
The first prototype of the Arjun main battle tank was built in 1989, 15 pre-production prototypes were built by 1996. Production variant designated as Arjun MK1 entered service with the Indian Army 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.
The T-90S Bhishma is a vehicle tailored for Indian service, improving upon the T-90S, and developed with assistance from Russia and France. The tanks are equipped with the French Thales-built Catherine-FC thermal sights. They use Russian Kontakt-5 explosive reactive armour, in addition to the primary armor, which consists of laminated plates and ceramic layers with high-tensile properties. The new welded turrets first developed for the Indian T-90S Bhishma have more advanced armour protection than the early cast turrets.
Type 96G (also referred as Type 96A). It is an upgraded version of the Type 96, fitted with explosive reactive armor and thermal imaging system for all-weather, day/night operation. It was revealed in 2006. It is believed that upgraded vehicles approach the Type 99 in terms of protection, firepower and mobility. Weight of upgraded MBT increased to 42.8 t. All Type 96 tanks might be upgraded to this standard. This tank is also proposed for export customers as the VT2B. In 2016 a new version of the Type 96G emerged, which is most likely to be fitted with a new engine.
Taiwanese 2019 Service Life Extension Program (SLEP) modular update of the M60A3 in conjunction with Elbit Systems. Upgrades includes MG251/L44 120 mm gun with a semi-automatic load assist, Elbit Knight Independent Fire Control System (IFCS) with an independent thermal commander's sight, laser range finder, an RWR/IR warning system and Curtis-Wright electric turret drive. Improved hull suspension, improved NBC protection system and modular active and reactive armor packages.
An unidentified model of a North Korean main battle tank was unveiled during the military parade that commemorated the 75th anniversary of the foundation of the Worker's Party. It was given the unofficial name "M2020" by South Korean media. Its design is a mix of the American M1 Abrams, Russian T-14 Armata and the Iranian Zulfiqar Tank. It is equipped with composite armour, reactive armour and possibly an autoloader. The main armament is the Soviet 2A46 125 mm gun. Its secondary armament includes a Russian AGS-30 automatic grenade launcher, two Bulsae-3 anti-tank missiles and an unidentified co-axial machine gun.
Modernized
These are third-generation tanks modernized with fourth-generation technology.
The Leopard 2NG (Next Generation) is a privately funded Turkish upgrade by ASELSAN that includes the application of AMAP, upgraded optics, completely overhauled turret mechanics, and a new fire control system on the work since 1995 and to be delivered by late 2011, which is 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. The old powerpack and the L/44 gun barrel are kept, but the combat weight is increased to 65 tonnes.
Merkava Mark IV equipped with the Trophy active protection system (APS), designated "Meil Ruach" (Hebrew: מעיל רוח; "Windbreaker" or "Wind Coat"). 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 others. One visible feature is 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 new advanced fire control system "Kalina" (with integrated combat information and control systems), improved armor on the ammo carousel, and a new 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 Leopard 2A7+ is an advanced third generation tank and has been tested by the Bundeswehr under the name UrbOp (Urban Operations). Is designed to operate both in low-intensity and high-intensity conflicts. The tank's protection has been increased by modular armour. The frontal protection has been improved with a dual kit on the turret and hull front, while 360° protection against RPGs and mine protection increases the survivability of the tank in urban operations. The modular armour's system components were first used by Canada in Afghanistan. It can fire programmable high explosive munitions. The turret-mounted MG3 has been replaced with a stabilised FLW remote weapon station. Mobility, sustainability, and situational awareness have also been improved. In December 2018, Hungary ordered 44 2A7+s, 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 M1A2 SEPv3 (formerly designated M1A2C) has increased power generation and distribution, better communications and networking, new Vehicle Health Management System (VHMS) and Line Replaceable Modules (LRMs) for improved maintenance, an Ammunition DataLink (ADL) to use airburst rounds, improved counter-IED armor package, improved FLIR using long- and mid-wave infrared, a low-profile CROWS RWS, Next Generation Armor Package (NGAP), and an Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) under armor to run electronics while stationary instead of the engine, visually distinguishing the version by a small exhaust at the left rear. More passive ballistic protection added to the turret faces, along with new Explosive Reactive Armor mountings (Abrams Reactive Armor Tile (ARAT)) and Trophy Active Protection systems added to the turret sides. Prototypes began testing in 2015, and the first were delivered in October 2017.
The 2–12 Cavalry Regiment received the first M1A2 SEPv4 (formerly designated M1A2D) tank as of 21 January 2023. It was previously under development as of 29 March 2022. The Commander's Primary Sight, also known as the Commander's Independent Thermal Viewer, and Gunner's Primary Sight will be upgraded with third Gen FLIR, an improved laser rangefinder and color cameras. Additional improvements will include advanced meteorological sensors, laser warning/detection receivers, directional smoke grenade launchers and integration of the new XM1147 advanced multi-purpose (AMP) 120mm tank round. The AN/VVR-4 laser warning receiver and ROSY rapid obscurant system have been trialed by the US Army for adoption on the M1 Abrams tank and Bradley fighting vehicle.
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.[21][22][23]
Fourth/next
Next generation[24][bettersourceneeded] or fourth generation tanks are still under development or at early stages of their generation. While the term "(fourth) next generation" has no formal basis, these main battle tanks are using the latest technology and designs to compete in the current advanced warfare environment.[vague][citation needed]
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.
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.[30]
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.
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.
In September 2023 Germany and France, along with Italy, Spain and Sweden announced to be working on a successor to the Leopard 2 tank, rendering the future of the MGCS project uncertain.
↑ "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.
A tank is an armoured fighting vehicle intended as a primary offensive weapon in front-line ground combat. Tank designs are a balance of heavy firepower, strong armour, and battlefield mobility provided by tracks and a powerful engine; their main armament is often mounted within a turret. They are a mainstay of modern 20th and 21st century ground forces and a key part of combined arms combat.
The M1 Abrams is a third-generation American main battle tank designed by Chrysler Defense and named for General Creighton Abrams. Conceived for modern armored ground warfare and now one of the heaviest tanks in service at nearly 73.6 short tons. It introduced several modern technologies to United States armored forces, including a multifuel turbine engine, sophisticated Chobham composite armor, a computer fire control system, separate ammunition storage in a blowout compartment, and NBC protection for crew safety. Initial models of the M1 were armed with a 105 mm M68 gun, while later variants feature a license-produced Rheinmetall 120 mm L/44 designated M256.
Composite armour is a type of vehicle armour consisting of layers of different materials such as metals, plastics, ceramics or air. Most composite armours are lighter than their all-metal equivalent, but instead occupy a larger volume for the same resistance to penetration. It is possible to design composite armour stronger, lighter and less voluminous than traditional armour, but the cost is often prohibitively high, restricting its use to especially vulnerable parts of a vehicle. Its primary purpose is to help defeat high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) projectiles.
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 T-84 is a Ukrainian main battle tank (MBT), based on the Soviet T-80 MBT introduced in 1976, specifically the diesel engine version: T-80UD. The T-84 was first built in 1994 and entered service in the Ukrainian Armed Forces in 1999. Its high-performance opposed-piston engine makes it a fast tank, comparable to other modern MBTs with a power-to-weight ratio of about 26 horsepower per tonne.
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 Type 59 main battle tank is a Chinese-produced version of the Soviet T-54A tank, an early model of the ubiquitous T-54/55 series. The first vehicles were produced in 1958 and it was accepted into service in 1959, with serial production beginning in 1963. Over 10,000 of the tanks were produced by the time production ended in 1985 with approximately 5,500 serving with the Chinese armed forces. The tank formed the backbone of the Chinese People's Liberation Army armoured units until the early 2000s, with an estimated 5,000 of the later Type 59-I and Type 59-II variants in service in 2002.
Tank classification is a taxonomy of identifying either the intended role or weight class of tanks. The classification by role was used primarily during the developmental stage of the national armoured forces, and referred to the doctrinal and force structure utility of the tanks based on design emphasis. The weight classification is used in the same way truck classification is used, and is intended to accommodate logistic requirements of the tanks.
The Rheinmetall Rh-120 is a 120 mm smoothbore tank gun designed and produced in former West Germany by the Rheinmetall-DeTec AG 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).
A main battle tank (MBT), also known as a battle tank or universal tank, is a tank that fills the role of armour-protected direct fire and maneuver in many modern armies. Cold War-era development of more powerful engines, better suspension systems and lighter composite armour allowed for the design of a tank that had the firepower of a super-heavy tank, the armour protection of a heavy tank, and the mobility of a light tank, in a package with the weight of a medium tank. The first designated MBT was the British Chieftain tank, which during its development in the 1950s was re-designed as an MBT. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the MBT replaced almost all other types of tanks, leaving only some specialist roles to be filled by lighter designs or other types of armoured fighting vehicles.
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.
The FV4601 MBT-80 was a British experimental third-generation main battle tank, designed in the late 1970s to replace the Chieftain tank. It was eventually cancelled in favour of the Challenger 1, itself an evolution of the Chieftain design.
The history and development of tanks in the Royal Canadian Armoured Corps can be broken down into smaller categories: their origin during World War I; the interwar period; World War II; the Cold War; and the modern era.
The Panther KF51 is a German main battle tank (MBT) that is under development by Rheinmetall Landsysteme. It was unveiled publicly at the Eurosatory defence exhibition on 13 June 2022.
This page is based on this Wikipedia article Text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 license; additional terms may apply. Images, videos and audio are available under their respective licenses.
