Two additional 7.62mm machine guns were also offered for self-defense against aircraft attacks and as anti-infantry weapons. A gun stabilization system offered up fire-on-the-move capability completed with an indigenously-produced targeting computer. The powerful and (formerly) standard 105mm main gun was fitted to the turret as was a 7.62mm co-axial machine gun. The turret itself was designed with rounded facings and gave the entire tank an extremely low profile making the tank harder to spot or engage at distance. As such, the driver would be seated further aft, towards the middle of the design and just left forward of the turret. Contrary to this, the Merkava featured the engine at front to help protect the crew from that same frontal direct hit. Traditional tank designs have always featured the engine at rear to guard against a direct frontal hit rendering the entire system useless. One of the most distinct design features of the Merkava main battle tank was the decision to plant the engine in the front of the hull. The resulting Merkava (or "chariot") was just that and continues to be a main part of the Israeli Army forces. This product would have to be made for the rigors of urban and desert warfare and provide the crew with maximum protection. With the volatile situation surrounding Israel on a day to day basis, it was imperative for the tiny nation to fit its inventory with a system that was tailored to the needs of the Israeli Army. The system was the result of extensive experience in the field of armored warfare done exclusively with foreign equipment, mostly US products though some British and French systems were also utilized. The Merkava series of main battle tank represents the backbone of Israeli armor elements.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |