Chinese MBT-3000 Main Battle Tank
The vehicle on first appearance does not look that dissimilar from the Type 99A1 as it has the almost identical amour module on the front of the turret, hull shape and 125mm smoothbore main gun. However the new thermal gunners sight is visible on the left of the turret as is the new smoke grenade launcher lay out on the turret sides.
Firepower
The vehicle has a full digitalised fire control system with a hunter killer capability. The 125mm smoothbore gun is capable of firing APFSDS, HEAT, HE shells and gun-launched missiles, with a maximum missile range of 5000m’s. The vehicle has a battlefield management system. It is now fitted with a roof mounted Remote Weapon Station mounting a 12.7mm MG.
Protection
The frontal modular armour system contains an improved composition over the most modern Type 99’s, an internal fire suppression system and electrical gun stabilization system so as to reduce the number of parts that can “cook off” if the armour is defeated. ERA armour is visible across the frontal arc of the hull and can be added to the armoured side skirts, increasing side protection and bring the vehicle up to a 4th generation standard. It also has an active protection system that links laser threat warning sensors in to the smoke grenade launchers designated the GL5. The crew have full NBC protection.
Mobility
The vehicle has a 1300hp turbo charged diesel, automatic gearbox and torsion bar suspension. The driver even has a rear camera and monitor fitted for whilst driving in reverse. It has a combat weight of 48 tonnes (VT-4 42 tonnes) and is fully air-conditioned.