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VT4A1: Chinese Next-Generation Tank Impresses With Use of Drones and Advanced Technologies in Battle
Norinco, China’s state-owned enterprise, surprised everyone by unveiling the VT4A1, an enhanced and modernized version of the main battle tank VT-4. The model represents a strategic step for the future of tanks, integrating cutting-edge systems to meet the contemporary demands of battlefields.
The VT4A1 positions itself as a midway solution between the previous VT-4 model and the upcoming VT-4B version, addressing emerging needs in increasingly challenging tactical scenarios. Next, we highlight the key features and functionalities of this innovative tank.
Evolution and Historical Context
The VT4A1 is a robust update of the VT-4 model, with enhancements in protection systems, fire control, and drone integration. This development of the Chinese battle tank aims to expand the tank’s functionality, enhancing its responsiveness in complex combat situations.
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The VT4A1 was initially showcased in 2022 at the Zhuhai Airshow alongside other ground combat vehicles, such as the light tank VT5-U and the heavy infantry fighting vehicle VN20.
Now, two years later, the refined version of the VT4A1 reemerges with additional technologies that make it even more competitive in the arms export market.
New Chinese Tank Comes With Active Protection Systems and Fire Control
The GL5 hard-kill active protection system (APS) is one of the main innovations of the Chinese battle tank VT4A1. Composed of four millimeter-wave radars, this system identifies top-attack anti-tank missiles, using turret interceptors to neutralize these threats before they can hit the tank.
This feature is crucial in environments where guided anti-tank weapons have become one of the biggest threats. Similar to the fire control system of China’s Level 15 tank, the VT4A1 has fire control technology that allows for indirect firing, enhancing the tank’s precision in long-range combat.
The advanced fire control also allows the VT4A1 to perform complex ballistic calculations, optimizing the crew’s response time and improving shooting effectiveness.
With the ability to conduct indirect fire, the VT4A1 can engage targets beyond the direct line of sight, a capacity that increases its appeal in varied combat situations.
Remote Weapons Station and Drone Integration
Another striking aspect of the VT4A1 is its remote weapons station (RWS), equipped with a 12.7 mm machine gun. This system includes a laser alert, a drone blocker, and a vertical takeoff and landing drone mounted on the vehicle itself.
The integrated drone on the VT4A1, similar to the Czech Republic’s Pholos model, features a coaxial dual-rotor design with foldable rotors for compact storage.
This drone provides the crew with a wide view of the battlefield, operating between 100 and 1,000 meters above the tank. With an operational range of up to 10 miles, it is equipped with a high-definition electro-optical system that includes white light, infrared night vision, and laser distance measurement.
Compared to other next-generation tanks, such as the German KF51 Panther, which also uses drones for reconnaissance, the VT4A1 offers the crew a real-time aerial view of the terrain, enhancing situational awareness.
Importance of Real-Time Reconnaissance
The ability to perform aerial reconnaissance with a drone represents a significant advancement for modern battle tanks. The VT4A1’s drone allows the tank to achieve a reconnaissance radius of up to 15 miles, enabling continuous surveillance of the battlefield.
This feature is crucial for identifying threats and positioning enemy ambushes, in addition to expanding the engagement range of the VT4A1.
Through the drone, the crew can assess the situation around the tank and make informed decisions based on real-time visual information.
Moreover, using drones to direct indirect fire has become a common practice on the battlefield, especially in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Both Ukrainian and Russian forces use commercial drones to assist in targeting accuracy and identifying targets.
The VT4A1 aligns with this trend, making aerial reconnaissance a standard resource, in line with the current combat needs.
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