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List of main battle tanks by generation

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
British Centurion main battle tank
T-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 Soviet T-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

[edit]
Name Year first built Year entered service Origin No. built Mass Engine power Range Notes
Centurion[3][5] 1945 (Mk 1) 1946 (Mk 2)
1948 (Mk 3)
1955 (Mk 5) 		 United Kingdom 4,423[6] 51 tons 650 hp 52–100 km First "Universal Tank" (MBT) Culmination of the WWII cruiser tanks.
1953 (C III)
1955 (C V)
1958 (C X) 		 Sweden 110 52 tons 650 hp 52–100 km Strv 81 and 101 were the Swedish designations fitted with, Swedish machine guns and instruments.
1958 (Pz55)

1976 (Pz57)

  Switzerland 100

12

52 tons 650 hp 52-100 km Panzer 55 and 57/60 were the Swiss designations.
1960 (Meteor)
1970 (Kal Alef)
1975 (Kal Bet)
1980 (Kal Gimel)
c.1985 (Kal Dalet) 		 Israel 390 51 tons 650 hp 52–100 km Sho't is the Israeli designation of the 105 mm L7 armed Centurion tank.
T-54[3][5] 1945 (T‑54) 1947 (T‑54)
1955 (T‑54A)
1957 (T‑54B) 		 Soviet Union 35,000 36 tons 520 hp 330–440 km USSR's First Generation of MBT.
1956 (T‑54/T‑54A)  Polish People's Republic 3,000 36 tons 520 hp 330–440 km Produced under license in Poland.
1957 (T‑54A)  Czechoslovakia 2,700 36 tons 520 hp 330–440 km T-54A produced under license in Czechoslovakia.
1959 (T‑54A)  People's Republic of China 13,000 36 tons 520 hp 450–600 km Chinese-produced version of the Soviet T-54A tank.
M48 Patton 1951 (T48) 1952
1953 (A1)
1955 (A2)
1957 (A3) 		 United States 12,000 45–49 tons 750–825 hp 110–480 km A further development of the M47 Patton tank. America's First generation of MBT
FV4202 1955 —  United Kingdom 3 41 tons 520 hp 50–100 km Prototype used to develop various concepts later used in the Chieftain.
T-55[3][5] 1958 1958  Soviet Union 27,500 36 tons 581 hp 400–530 km Improved T-54.
1964  Polish People's Republic 7,000 36 tons 581 hp 400–530 km Produced under license in Poland.
1964  Czechoslovakia 8,300 36 tons 581 hp 400–530 km Produced under license in Czechoslovakia.
Type 61[3] 1956 1961  Japan 560 35 tons 570 hp 200 km First MBT developed and used by the JGSDF, built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.

Second Generation

[edit]

The second generation had enhanced night-fighting capabilities and in most cases NBC protection. Most western tanks of this generation were armed with the 105 mm Royal Ordnance L7 tank gun or derivatives of it.

Name Year first built Year entered service Origin No. built Mass Engine power Range Notes
M60 1959
1962 (A1)
1973 (A2)
1978 (A3) 		 United States 15,000+ 46–52 tons 750 hp 450–500 km 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.
T-62 1958 (T‑62A) 1961  Soviet Union 22,700+ 37 tons 581–620 hp 320–650 km Development of the T-55, with a new 115mm cannon and enlarged chassis. First tank fitted with a smoothbore gun that could fire APFSDS rounds.
1978
1992 (II & III)
2000 (IV)
2001 (V) 		 North Korea 1,200+ 40 tons 750 hp 450 km North Korean copy of the T-62 known as the Ch'onma-ho.
Leopard 1 1961 1965
1970 (A1)
1972 (A2)
1974 (A4)
1980 (A5) 		 West Germany 4,744 40–42 tons 820 hp 450–600 km A main battle tank designed and produced in West Germany that first entered service in 1965.
Panzer 61 1957 1965   Switzerland 150 39 tons 630 hp 250 km Initially developed as the Panzer 58 medium tank and developed and redesignated into the Panzer 61.
MBT-70 1965 —  United States
 West Germany 		14 50 tons 1470–1500 hp 644 km An American-West German joint project to develop a new main battle tank. Never entered service.
Vickers MBT Mark 1 1964 1965  United Kingdom 376 38 tons 535 hp 480 km British private venture design for export.
1965  India 2,200 39 tons 535 hp 530 km Vijayanta was the Indian license-built version of British Vickers MBT Mark 1.
1970  Kuwait 70 38 tons 535 hp 480 km Al Jahra is the Kuwaiti designation for Vickers MBT Mark 1s modified for desert warfare.
AMX 30 / AMX-30E 1966 1966  France 3,571 36–39 tons 700–750 hp 450–500 km The AMX 30 served as the principal Main Battle Tank (MBT) for the French Army.
1970  France
 Francoist Spain 		299 36 tons 670 hp 400 km The AMX-30E was a Spanish development of the AMX-30. 280 units were manufactured by Santa Bárbara Sistemas, between 1974 and 1983.
T-64 1958 (Object‑430) 1963 (T‑64)
1967 (T‑64A)
1976 (T‑64B) 		 Soviet Union 13,000 38–42 tons 700–1000 hp 500–700 km World's first composite armoured tank. In Russian military theory, the T-64 is the first vehicle of the third generation.
1999 (T‑64U / T‑64BM)
2004 (T‑64BM Bulat) 		 Ukraine 44 tons 850–1000 hp 385 km 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.
FV 4201 Chieftain 1959 (P1‑P7)
1966 (Mk 1) 		1967 (Mk 2)
1970 (Mk 3)
1975 (Mk 5‑8)
1979 (Mk 9)
1984 (Mk 10‑12) 		 United Kingdom 1,896 52–55 tons 650–750 hp 400–500 km 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.
1981  United Kingdom
 Jordan 		274 1200 hp Project 4030 Phase 1 & 2, was intended for export to Iran, but was cancelled then renegotiated with Jordan. Features thickened belly armour, a new engine, transmission, suspension, and cooling system, integrated FCS and new sights, and a greater fuel capacity.
Magach 3 1967  United States
 Israel 		300 50 tons 750 hp 480 km Modernized M48A1/A2C/A3 including British 105 mm L7 cannon, low profile commander's cupola, and an upgraded communication suite, engine, and transmission.
Strv 103 1963 1967  Sweden 290 37–43 tons 540–780 hp 390 km World's first turbine engine equipped tank, the Strv 103 is an indigenous turretless design that uses hydropneumatic hull suspension to aim.
WZ-122[7] 1970 —  China Only a few, project cancelled 38 tons 650–680 hp — 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.
Panzer 68 1971 1971   Switzerland 390 41 tons 660 hp 200 km Swiss Main Battle Tank (MBT) based on the Panzer 61. Improvements consisted of wider tracks, stabilized gun, and replaces the coaxial 20mm gun of early Panzer 61 models with a machine gun
T-72 1973  Soviet Union 25,000 37–45 tons 780–840 hp 460–700 km Hilmes puts the T-72 in the first intermediate generation. Post-1990's modernized versions are classified as third generation.
Olifant Mk 1 / Mk 2 1974 1976
1985 (1A)
1991 (1B) 		 South Africa 153 52 tons 650 hp 50–100 km A South African development of the Centurion Tank.
2003  South Africa 26 60 tons 1040 hp 500 km
Type 74 1975  Japan 873 38 tons 750 hp 300 km Hilmes puts the Type 74 in the first intermediate generation.
Magach 5 1976  United States
 Israel 		150 50 tons 750 hp 480 km 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.
Vickers MBT Mark 3 1977  United Kingdom 212 39 tons 720 hp 400 km 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.
TR-77-580[8] 1979  Socialist Republic of Romania 405 42 tons 580 hp 400–450 km 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 Krauss-Maffei refused to deliver to a Warsaw Pact member meaning the V-55 engine was retained.
Merkava Mark I / II 1979  Israel 250 63 tons 908 hp 500 km First Main Battle Tank developed and used by Israel Defense Forces.
1983  Israel 580 60 tons 908 hp 500 km Improved Merkava Mark I.
Type 80/88 / Type 96 1980  People's Republic of China 3500 38 tons 730 hp 400–500 km Variants include the Type 80, Type 85, Type 88.
1997  China >2,500 41–43 tons 730–1000 hp 400 km Domestic version of Type 85-IIM later known as Type 96.
OF-40 1981  Italy 39 46 tons 820 hp 600 km Main Battle Tank used by United Arab Emirates.
T-55AI Igman 1981  Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia ~20 37–45 tons 780 HP (educated guess) 700 km (educated guess) Yugoslav upgrade of the T-55A. It shares components with the M-84, a local version of T-72, with whom it was in parallel development. Major improvements include two rails for AT-3 Sagger ATGM, a meteosensor and laser rangefinders from M-84, spaced armour, and smoke dischargers.
T-72M/M1 1981  Czechoslovakia 1700 43.5 tons 850 hp 480 km Built under licence by ZTS Martin. In Western sources it's often referred to as T-72G. In the late 1980s they were fitted with some improvements from the Soviet T-72A programme, including rubber side skirts and 902B "Tucha" smoke grenade launchers.
1982  Polish People's Republic 1610 43.5 tons 850 hp 480 km An export version of the T-72 built under license by Bumar-Łabędy. The "gill armour" was later replaced with rubber side skirts and 902W "Tucha" smoke grenade launchers. Later models have an additional 16 mm steel plate welded on the upper glacis plate, like in the T-72M1.
1989  Soviet Union  Ba'athist Iraq 500–750 41.5 tonnes (45.7 short tons) 780 hp 425 km (600 km with fuel barrels) Iraqi-assembled version of the T-72M1 designated as the Lion of Babylon.
1982  India 1900 41.5 tons 780 hp 425 km The Ajeya MK1 was an Indian version of the T-72M1. While buying T-72M 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.
T-55 Enigma 1982  Ba'athist Iraq 8 41 tons 520 hp 300 km Modernized T-55, Type 59, and Type 69 tanks used by Iraqi Armed Forces.
Type 69/79 1982  People's Republic of China 3200 37 tons 580 hp 440 km A further development of the Type 59. Most advanced Type 79 variant was equipped with a 105 mm rifled gun which was also found on the Type 80 tank.
AMX-32 1982 —  France 6 38–40 tons 800 hp 530 km 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.
Tanque Argentino Mediano 1983  Argentina 280 31 tons 720 hp 590–800 km Medium tank (main battle tank) in service with the Argentine Army.
Bernardini MB-3 Tamoyo[9] 1983 —  Brazil Only a few 30 tons 500 hp 550 km Designed by Bernardini; it never passed beyond the prototype stage. The final model, the Tamoyo III was armed with a NATO 105 mm L7 rifled main gun.
TR-85 1986  Socialist Republic of Romania 617 42.2 tons 830 hp 400 km Main battle tank based on the TR-77-580, designed for the Romanian Land Forces. 227 TR-85s were in service in 2017.
1997  Romania 54 50 tons 860 hp 400 km TR-85M1 Bizonul ("the Bison") was a modernization of the TR-85 which began in 1996 to bring it up to date with other NATO countries.
CM-11 Brave Tiger / CM-12 1990  Taiwan 450 50 tons 750 hp 480 km Variant based on the M60 Patton and M48 Patton.
1990  Taiwan 100 49 tons 750 hp 203 km Variant from M48 Patton.
M-55S 1992  Soviet Union Slovenia
 Israel 		30 38 tons 600 hp 580 km 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.
Zulfiqar I 1994  Iran 400 52 tons 780–1000 hp 450 km Over 150 built, not including 6 prototypes.
Type 72Z 1997  Iran 400 36 tons 780 hp 440 km A highly modernized version of the Type 59 and T-54/T-55 tanks with upgrades carried out by the Iranian Defense Industries Organization.
Al-Zarrar 2004  China
 Pakistan 		750 44 tons 730 hp 450 km An upgrade of Pakistan's aging Chinese Type 59 tanks, developed with Ukrainian assistance and manufactured by Heavy Industries Taxila, fitted with a 125 mm smoothbore gun.
Ramses II 2005  Egypt 425 48 tons 908 hp 530 km A heavily modernized T-55 main battle tank designed for and used by the Egyptian Armed Forces.
Tifon 2a 2010 —  Ukraine
 Peru 		4 46 tons 1050 hp — Main battle tank based on the Soviet T-54/55 tank, developed and manufactured jointly by the Peruvian company DICSAC and the Kharkiv Morozov Machine Building Design Bureau. Trials/Development only.
Sabalan 2014  Iran 170 50 tons 750 hp 500 km 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.
Type 59G(BD) Durjoy 2015  China
 Bangladesh 		174 42 tons 730 hp 450 km An upgraded variant of the Chinese Type 59 tank for the Bangladesh Army.
T-55AGM 2016 —  Ukraine 4 46 tons 850 hp — Ukrainian T-54/T-55 modernization (also applicable to the T‑62) bringing them up 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

[edit]

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.

Name Year first built Year entered service Origin No. built Mass Engine Power Notes
T-80[10] / T-84 1976  Soviet Union >5400 42.5–46 tons 700–1000 hp 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.
1985 1987  Ukraine 500–800 46 tons 1000 hp T-80UD Bereza is a Ukrainian version with diesel 6TD engine and remote-controlled antiaircraft machine gun.
1999  Ukraine 55 46 tons 1200 hp The T-84 is a further development of the T-80UD. The T-84U is an upgrade with new side skirts, Kontakt-5 ERA, muzzle reference system and some other improvements.
2000  Ukraine 10 51 tons 1200–1500 hp 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.
Leopard 2[11] 1979  West Germany 3600 ~60 tons 1500 hp Development of the Leopard 2 began in 1970. It is armed with a fully-stabilized Rheinmetall RH-M-120 120 mm smoothbore gun.
1987   Switzerland 380 ~60 tons 1500 hp License manufactured in Switzerland of the Leopard 2A4. It includes Swiss-built 7.5 mm MG 87 machine guns, communications equipment, and improved NBC protection system. Designated Panzer 87.
1997  Sweden 120 ~60 tons 1500 hp 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.
2003  Germany
 Spain 		219 69 tons 1500 hp 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.
2006  Greece 170 ~60 tons 1500 hp 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.
2007  Germany
 Canada 		20 ~60 tons 1500 hp The Leopard 2A6M CAN is a Canadian variant of the 2A6M. The 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.
MBT-80 1980 —  United Kingdom 17 62 tons 1500 hp The FV4601 MBT-80[12] 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.
M1 Abrams 1979 1980  United States 10,400 60–74 tons 1500 hp 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 offered an independent hunter-killer thermal sight and depleted uranium armour. The System Enhancement Package (SEP) in 1992 upgraded it to third-gen DU armour with graphite coating.
Challenger 1 1983  United Kingdom 420 62–70 tons 1200 hp Replaced FV 4201 Chieftain. The Challenger 1 is armed with a fully-stabilized British L11A5 120 mm rifled gun, an improved version of the Chieftain's gun. The Challenger 1 is powered by a Rolls-Royce Condor V12 turbocharged diesel engine.
AMX-40 1983 —  France 4 44 tons 1100 hp 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.
M-84 1983 1984  Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia 650 41.5 tons 1000 hp 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.
1991 —  Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia 2 1200 hp 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.
1995 —  Croatia 2 48.5 tons 1200 hp 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.
2004  Serbia ~5 45 tons 1200 hp The M-84AS is an upgraded Yugoslav version of the M-84 tank. M-84AS is sometimes referred to as M-84AB1 and M-2001.
2018  Croatia 2 prototypes 1200 hp 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.
2017  Serbia 10 45 tons 1000–1200 hp 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". Improvements were presented in 2020 and 2021.
EE-T1 Osório 1985 — Brazil 2 prototypes 40.9–43.7 tons 1100 hp The EE-T1 Osório was a Brazilian prototype developed by Engesa. Intended to be exported first 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.
K1 / K1A1 1987  South Korea 1027 51.1 tons 1200 hp 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]
2001  South Korea 484 53.2 tons 1200 hp 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.
TR-125 1987  Socialist Republic of Romania 5–10 50 tons 900 hp Prototype main battle tank is a redesigned T-72 made with Romanian components only. It is now designated P-125 (P stands for Prototype).
Merkava Mark III / IV 1989  Israel 780 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.
2004  Israel 360 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.
Type 90 1976 1990  Japan 341 Intended to replace the Type 61 medium tanks in service with JGSDF. It is armed with RH-M-120 120 mm smoothbore gun and fires HEAT-MP and APFSDS-T rounds, but is compatible with all standard NATO 120 mm tank ammunition.
Pokpung-ho II 1992  North Korea 200–500 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.
Leclerc 1990 1992  France 862 Replaced AMX 30. Development began in 1978 with prototypes ready in 1989. Named in honor of Philippe Leclerc. It is in service with France and United Arab Emirates.
Tank Technology Demonstrator (TTD) 1992 —  South Africa 1 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.
T-90 1992  Russia 750–1,000 Deep modernization of the T-72B; originally introduced into service in October 1992 as T-72BU, but simultaneously renamed as the T-90.
T-72M2 Moderna 1993 —  Slovakia 1 A further development of the T-72M1A. Development was completed but without any order for tank fleet modernization.
PT-91 Twardy 1995  Poland 281 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.
2016  Poland — 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]
Ariete 1989 1995  Italy 200 Developed by Iveco and OTO Melara. Named in honor of the WW2 Italian Ariete armored division. It was intended to replace ageing fleet of M60A1 in service with Italian Army. First prototype 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.
Zulfiqar II 1997 —  Iran Few prototypes 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.
Challenger 2 1998  United Kingdom 447 Further development of the Challenger 1. 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 120 mm L30 rifled gun.
T-72M1S 1998  Syria
 Italy 		124 Syrian-Italian upgrade with the addition of the Galileo Avionica, TURMS-T computerised FCS, including infrared cameras, improved gun and sight stabilisation, and 9M119 Svir/Refleks launch capability. 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.
Black Eagle 1999 —  Russia 1 The Black Eagle tank (Object 640), was a presumed prototype main battle tank produced in the Russian Federation. It was 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 2000 —  Russia 2 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.
Zulfiqar III 2000  Iran 100-250 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 autoloaded 2A46 125 mm smoothbore cannon, laser rangefinder and a new fire-control system.
M60-2000 2001 —  United States
 Turkey 		1 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.
Type 99 2001  People's Republic of China 1200 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.
MBT-2000/Al-Khalid[15] 2002  People's Republic of China
 Pakistan 		994 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.
2009  People's Republic of China
 Pakistan 		150 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 7 km effective identification range.
Tank EX 2002 —  India 9 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.
Pokpung-ho III Between 1992-2002  North Korea 200–500 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.
T-72M4CZ[16] 2003  Czech Republic 30 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.
M60 Phoenix 2004  Jordan 182 The M60 Phoenix is a Jordanian upgrade of the M60A3 main battle tank. The gun was replaced by a Swiss RUAG CTG fully-stabilized 120 mm/L50 smoothbore gun, compatible with all standard NATO 120 mm tank ammunition.
Arjun Mk 1 2004  India 141 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.
C2 Ariete 2005  Italy 200 The C2 Ariete was revealed in 2005. It has a modular armor, 120 mm smoothbore gun fitted with an autoloader, hydropneumatic suspension, 1500 hp engine and more advanced fire control system.
Mobarez 2006  Iran 50 A domestically upgraded version of the British Chieftain tank by Iran.
T-90S Bhishma 2006  India 330 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.
Type 96A/B 2006  People's Republic of China 2500 42.8 tons It is an upgraded version of the Type 96, fitted with explosive reactive armor and thermal imaging system. It is believed that upgraded vehicles 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.
Sabra Mk I / II 2007  United States
 Israel 		630 An extensively upgraded M60 Patton tank developed by Israel Military Industries.
2009  Israel
 Turkey 		450 The Sabra Mk II is known as the M60T in Turkish service.
M60A3 SLEP 2019  Taiwan — 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 Fire Control System, laser range finder, an independent commander's thermal sight, an RWR/IR warning system, improved suspension, improved NBC protection, and modular active and reactive armour packages.
Cheonma-2 2020  North Korea 9 A North Korean MBT first seen during the military parade that commemorated the 75th anniversary of the Worker's Party. Initially 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 armament is believed to be the Soviet 2A46 125 mm gun, a Russian AGS-30 automatic grenade launcher, two Bulsae 3 ATGM and an unidentified co-axial machine gun.

Modernized

[edit]

These are third-generation tanks modernized with fourth-generation technology.

Name Year first built Year entered service Origin No. built Mass Engine Power Notes
Leopard 2NG 2011 —  Germany
 Turkey 		1 65 tons 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. The old powerpack and the L/44 gun barrel are kept, but the combat weight is increased to 65 tonnes.
Mark 4M Meil Ruach 2011  Israel 300 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.
T-84 Oplot-M 2013  Soviet Union
 Ukraine 		54 51 tons 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.
T-90MS/M 2013  Soviet Union
 Russia 		100[17] 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.
K1A2 2013  South Korea 480 Upgraded variant of the K1A1 with the technology of the K2 Black Panther. It features additional systems such as a digital battlefield control system, IFF system, front and rear surveillance camera and navigation system, and with improved real-time information sharing, inter-combat vehicle operation, friendly fire prevention and driver operability.[18]
Type 99A 2014  China 600 1500 hp 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.
Leopard 2A7+ 2014  Germany 106 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.
VT-4 2016  China <100 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.
T-80BVM 2017  Soviet Union
 Russia 		>220 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.
M1A2 SEPv3 / SEPv4 2017  United States 154 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.
2023  United States — 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. The SEPv4 was announced to be cancelled in September 2023 in favor of a new M1E3 which will include many of the features initially planned for the SEPv4 while reducing the tank's weight.[19]
Karrar 2017  Iran >150 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.
Leopard 2PL[20] 2020  Poland
 Germany 		142 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.
Arjun MK 1A 2021  India 17 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.
Ariete AMV 2022[21]  Italy 125 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.
Merkava IV Barak 2023  Israel — 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.
Haider MBT 2024  People's Republic of China
 Pakistan 		— 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.[22][23][24]

Fourth Generation

[edit]

A generation of tanks developed since the beginning of the 21st century and implemented since the 2010s.[citation needed]

Name Year first built Year in service Origin No. built Notes
Type 10[25][better source needed] 2010 2012  Japan 117 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.
K2 Black Panther[26] 2008 2014  South Korea 260 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.
T-14 Armata 2015 2024  Russia "Low Tens"[27] 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.
Altay[28] 2016 - Phase I
2023 - Phase II 		 Turkey
 South Korea 		5 Phase I[29]
2 Phase II[30] 		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.[31]
Leclerc XLR 2023  France — 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.
Leclerc Evolution 2024  France — A modified version of Leclerc XLR, intended mainly for export.[32] 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.[32]
Panther KF51[33] —  Germany
 Hungary[34] 		3 Technology demonstrator created by Rheinmetall, armed with a 130mm gun.

In August 2023, Hungary announced that it will join the development.[35]

AbramsX —  United States A technology demonstrator of the M1 Abrams series, the AbramsX features include the XM360 electrothermal-chemical gun, an autoloader, unmanned turret, a hybrid diesel-electric power pack that gives 50% more fuel efficiency, a 30mm chain gun in a remote controlled weapon station, active protection systems, and a silent mode when running on electric power.
FMBT[36] 2025  India 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.
Challenger 3 2025  United Kingdom Further development of the Challenger 2, 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.
Unnamed Semi-Autonomous Next Gen Tank —  China 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.[37][38][39][40] 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.[41]
EMBT 2018 - 2024  France
 Germany 		— EMBT (also E-MBT, European Main Battle Tank, Enhanced Main Battle Tank) is French-German prototype of the enhanced main battle tank developed and manufactured by the KNDS.[42] First prototype was presented during the Eurosatory 2018,[43] Second prototype tank was presented during the Eurosatory 2022.[44] Third prototype was presented in 2024 and features a 140-millimeter ASCALON main gun with an autoloader and a coaxial 20×102-millimeter automatic gun and a remote controlled weapon station with ARX30 30mm x 113mm.[42] Tank features six anti-drone radars, four laser and missile warning sensors, an acoustic gunshot detector and provides 360-degree coverage of the surroundings for enhanced situational awareness.[42] EMBT also includes French Ministry of Defense's Prometheus active protection system, AI-enabled “SAFE” fire control system, an internally developed solution designed to assist the autonomous selection and queuing of weapon systems on board the platform to successfully prosecute targets in order of priority.[45] Now, it's technology demonstrator for the Next/Future Generation Main Ground Combat System.[45] Expected to replace the European Leopard 2 and Leclerc tanks.[42]

Next/Future Generation

[edit]

A generation of tanks developed since the beginning around of the 2020s and planned implementation from 2030s/2040s.

Name Year first built Year in service Origin No. built Notes
Main Ground Combat System[46] 2035-2045[47]  European Union
( France,
 Germany) 		In September 2023 Germany and France announced to be working on next generation main battle tank,[47] a successor to the Leopard 2 and Leclerc tank. In 2024, two models: Leclerc Evolution and EMBT ADT140 were presented that will be technology demonstrators for the future system.[48][49][50] In addition to France and Germany, six another European states are also interested in the program: Belgium, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and United Kingdom.
Decisive Lethality Platform[51] 2035  United States Prospective unmanned MBT, not presently in active development.[52]

See also

[edit]

Explanatory notes

[edit]
  1. ^ "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 120 mm 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

[edit]
  1. ^ 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.
  2. ^ Lamontagne 2003, pp. 7–8.
  3. ^ a b c d e Hilmes, Rolf (1983). Kampfpanzer der Die Entwickelungen der Nachkriegszeit (in German). Verlag Soldat und Technik. ISBN 3-524-89001-6, p. 7.
  4. ^ a b c Hilmes 1983, p. 8.
  5. ^ a b c Czołgi (in Polish), Pancerni.net, p. 2, archived from the original on 2009-02-21, retrieved 2008-07-03[unreliable source?]
  6. ^ "Centurion (A41) – Main Battle Tank – History, Specs and Pictures – Military Tanks, Vehicles and Artillery". Archived from the original on 28 November 2014. Retrieved 15 November 2014.
  7. ^ "The WZ-122 Main Battle Tank". Archived from the original on 2019-02-13. Retrieved 2020-08-22.
  8. ^ ROMANIAN TANK – A HISTORY
  9. ^ "MB-3 Tamoyo Specifications". Archived from the original on 2016-03-03. Retrieved 2020-08-22.
  10. ^ "Start - Pancerni.net". Archived from the original on 2008-07-03. Retrieved 2008-07-03.
  11. ^ Czołgi (in Polish), Pancerni.net, p. 3, archived from the original on 2008-07-03, retrieved 2008-07-03[unreliable source?]
  12. ^ "MBT-80". Global Security.
  13. ^ "K1A1 Main Battle Tank, South Korea". Army Technology. Army-Technology. Archived from the original on 2009-07-27. Retrieved 2009-08-18.
  14. ^ "Egypt – Co-production of M1A1 Abrams Tank | Defense Security Cooperation Agency".
  15. ^ "Pakistan's tool of war: Al-Khalid Main Battle Tank – the armoured fist". 10 November 2015. Archived from the original on 2017-04-07. Retrieved 2017-03-29.
  16. ^ "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.
  17. ^ The Military Balance 2023, p. 194
  18. ^ "K1A2·K1E1, 성능개량으로 강해지는 전차!". Hyundai Rotem. 22 May 2020. Archived from the original on 16 June 2022. Retrieved 16 June 2022.
  19. ^ [1]
  20. ^ Leopard 2PL
  21. ^ Italian army starts trials of upgraded C1 Ariete AMV MBT Main Battle Tank
  22. ^ Administrator (2023-03-03). "IDEX 2023: Pakistan unveils its new local-made Haider MBT Main Battle Tank | Defense News March 2023 Global Security army industry | Defense Security global news industry army year 2023 | Archive News year". Army Recognition. Retrieved 2024-03-12.
  23. ^ Gady, Franz-Stefan. "Pakistan's New Main Battle Tank? Turkey's Altay Tank Enters Mass Production". thediplomat.com. Retrieved 2024-03-12.
  24. ^ Nazar, Nuzhat (2024-03-07). "Army unveils new tank 'HAIDER'". Brecorder. Retrieved 2024-03-12.
  25. ^ "Competition Tank Asian countries: China Satellite Compass may be supported 99A". Military of China, force comment. August 31, 2011. Archived from the original on July 30, 2012.
  26. ^ "K2 Black Panther: South Korea's MBT Revolution". 25 April 2022.
  27. ^ Bisht, Inder Singh (2023-09-04). "Russia Pulls Armata Tanks From Ukraine". The Defense Post. Retrieved 2024-07-15.
  28. ^ "Meet the Altay: How Turkey is Building a Fourth Generation Tank". 16 July 2021.
  29. ^ "Otokar/Ali Koç: Altay tankının prototipi için 1 milyar dolar harcandı". 9 November 2016.
  30. ^ "İki adet yeni Altay Tankı, testleri için Kara Kuvvetleri Komutanlığı'na teslim edildi". 23 April 2023.
  31. ^ "ALTAY | TRACKED ARMOURED | MILITARY VEHICLES | Products | Otokar". 2016-12-26. Archived from the original on 2016-12-26. Retrieved 2022-05-05.
  32. ^ a b defensemagazine.com. "France's Leclerc XLR, Leclerc Evolution and EMBT-ADT 140 at Eurosatory 2024".
  33. ^ "Rheinmetall". www.rheinmetall.com. Retrieved 2022-06-13.
  34. ^ "Germany's New Superweapon to be Manufactured in Hungary". Hungary Today. 2023-09-28. Retrieved 2023-11-28.
  35. ^ "Orbán Viktor bejelentette – mi bemutatjuk az új szupertankot: a Párducot". Infostart.hu (in Hungarian). 2023-08-24. Retrieved 2023-11-28.
  36. ^ Shukla, Ajai (2010-08-10). "DRDO to develop army's next-generation tank". Business Standard India. Retrieved 2022-05-05.
  37. ^ "China Develops Smart Tank with Drone Integration, Omnidirectional Protection, and Phased Array Radar". 31 May 2024.
  38. ^ "China Shows Glimpses of Its Next-Gen Battle Tank; Hails It as 'The Strongest on the Surface in Future'". 15 October 2022.
  39. ^ "China too would develop a next-generation battle tank". 12 October 2022.
  40. ^ "China's futuristic smart tank can turn drones against drones, images suggest". 28 May 2024.
  41. ^ https://armyrecognition.com/news/army-news/army-news-2024/is-china-testing-its-future-40-ton-4th-generation-tank-with-multiple-weapon-configurations
  42. ^ a b c d thedefensepost.com (26 June 2024). "KNDS Unveils European Main Battle Tank With Three Guns".
  43. ^ defenceturkey.com (26 June 2024). "EMBT Showcased at Eurosatory 2018".
  44. ^ czdefence.com (26 June 2024). "European Heavy Military Equipment at Eurosatory 2022".
  45. ^ a b breakingdefense.com (19 June 2024). "KNDS debuts Enhanced Main Battle Tank technology demonstrator".
  46. ^ "Leopard 3". globalsecurity.org. Retrieved 2022-05-05.
  47. ^ a b "Europe's Next-Generation Main Battle Tank: New Hope?". cepa.org. Retrieved 2024-11-05.
  48. ^ defensemagazine.com. "France's Leclerc XLR, Leclerc Evolution and EMBT-ADT 140 at Eurosatory 2024".
  49. ^ thedefensepost.com. "KNDS Unveils European Main Battle Tank With Three Guns".
  50. ^ breakingdefense.com. "KNDS debuts Enhanced Main Battle Tank technology demonstrator".
  51. ^ "Decisive Lethality Platform" (PDF).
  52. ^ https://www.cbo.gov/system/files/2021-03/57085-ground-combat-vehicles.pdf [bare URL PDF]

General and cited references

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