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VT4A1: Next-generation Chinese main battle tank impresses with use of drones and advanced technologies in battle
A Norinco, a Chinese state-owned company, surprised by revealing the VT4A1, an improved and modernized version of war tank main chinese VT-4. O model represents a strategic step towards the future of tanks, integrating cutting-edge systems to meet the contemporary demands of the battlefield.
O VT4A1 positions itself as a intermediary, between the previous VT-4 model and the future VT-4B version, meeting emerging needs in scenarios tactical increasingly challenging. Below, we highlight the main features and functionalities of this innovative tank.
Evolution and historical context
The version VT4A1 It is a robust upgrade of the VT-4 model, with improvements in protection systems, fire control and drone integration. This development of the Chinese main battle tank aims to expand the tank's functionality, increasing its response capacity in complex combat situations.
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The VT4A1 was initially unveiled at the 2022 Zhuhai Airshow, alongside other ground combat vehicles such as the VT5-U light tank and the VN20 heavy infantry fighting vehicle.
Now, two years later, the refined version of the VT4A1 reappears with additional technologies that make it even more competitive in the arms export market.
New Chinese main battle tank comes with sActive protection and fire control systems
The GL5 hard-kill active protection system (APS) is one of the Chinese main battle tank's key innovations VT4A1. Comprising four millimeter-wave radars, this system identifies top-attack anti-tank missiles, using turret interceptors to neutralize these threats before they can reach the tank.
This capability is crucial in environments where guided anti-tank weapons have become a major threat. Similar to the firing system on China’s Tier 15 tank, the VT4A1 features fire control technology that enables indirect fire, enhancing the tank’s accuracy in long-range combat.
Advanced fire control also allows the VT4A1 to perform complex ballistic calculations, optimizing crew response time and improving fire effectiveness.
With the ability to fire indirectly, the VT4A1 can hit targets beyond its direct line of sight, a capability that increases its appeal in a variety of combat situations.
Remote Weapon Station and Drone Integration
Another notable aspect of the VT4A1 is its remote weapons station (RWS), equipped with a 12,7mm gun mount. This system includes a laser warning, a drone jammer and a vertical take-off and landing drone, mounted on the vehicle itself.
The VT4A1-integrated drone, similar to the Czech Republic's Pholos model, features a coaxial dual-rotor design, with folding 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 operating range of up to 10 miles, it is equipped with a high-definition optoelectronic system that includes white light, infrared night vision and laser range finding.
Compared to other state-of-the-art tanks, such as the German KF51 Panther, which also use drones for reconnaissance, the VT4A1 gives its crew a real-time aerial view of the terrain, increasing situational awareness.
Importance of real-time recognition
The ability to conduct aerial reconnaissance with a drone represents a major advancement for modern combat tanks. The VT4A1's drone allows the tank to reach a reconnaissance radius of up to 15 miles, enabling continuous surveillance of the battlefield.
This capability is crucial for identifying threats and positioning enemy ambushes, as well as expanding the VT4A1's engagement range.
Using the drone, the crew can assess the situation around the tank and make informed decisions based on real-time visual information.
Additionally, the use of drones to direct indirect fire has been a common practice on the battlefield, particularly in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Both Ukrainian and Russian forces use commercial drones to aid in accurate fire and target identification.
The VT4A1 aligns with this trend, making aerial reconnaissance a standard capability, in line with current combat needs.
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