New Type98/99 MBT thread

rhino123

Pencil Pusher
VIP Professional
Actually it doesn't matter if the design looked absolutely hideous. As long as the design work, and is very efficient, then it is alright. Afterall, we are looking at weapons and not fashion clothings.
 

AssassinsMace

Lieutenant General
That's apropos thinking from your perspective. Design isn't just about looks. It's also psychological when it comes to what the other side sees. Also when exporting your stuff to others, buyers especially from countries that do like shiny news toys do want something that looks modern.
 
Last edited:

jackbh

Junior Member
I do not think it looks ugly. Really tough and intimidating are probably better words to describe it. Why on earth would you want your MBT to look pretty sleek and nice, you get a sports car for that. You want your MBT to be a monster is probably more appropriate. In fact this tank reminds me of German Tiger tank from world war II.
 

challenge

Banned Idiot
The basic variant of the Type 99 series. The latest variant that is in full service is the Type 99A2 with a 1,500-hp water cooled diesel engine and getting re-designed at some parts. The newest in trial is the Type 99KM.

The Type 99A2 has increased armor on the turret. The self-defense laser module has been replaced by an active defensive module. The ZTZ-99A2 also installed ERA on the front and side turret. The tank hull will follow the MBT 2000 configuration instead of the previously used hull.

[edit] Type 99G
CNGC has been deploying a further modified version of the ZTZ99, possibly known as ZTZ99G. A photo released by the Chinese official Xinhua News Agency in February 2008 revealed an improved variant of the ZTZ99 that features newly designed observation and active protection system (APS). The commander viewer of the new tank appears to be slightly larger than that of the basic variant ZTZ99, suggesting a possible independent commander thermal imaging viewer.

[edit] Type 99A
Successor to the Type 99G and predecessor to the Type 99A1.

[edit] Type 99A1
The Type 99A1 is the latest version in service of the PLA while the the more advanced variant the Type 99A2 is still in various trials and is not expected to enter service before the end of 2009. While the earlier Type 99 that entered service several years ago had additional armor packages on the original Type 98 turret and the chassis, the Type 99A1 has its turret top reshaped, having the hump on the turret's top removed by thickening it. This might be the result for changing the height of the turret itself to improve more protection or more space for the tank commander and gunner. Other distinct details are the armor packages on the front and at its sides, the ERA panels have been extended. The Type 99A1 might also have received further upgrades in terms of targeting computers etc.

[edit] Type 99A2
The much-improved Type 99 variant, with many major upgrades and improvements. Improvements are so significant that the A2 can almost be considered as a new tank. Some of the improvement and upgrades include a reaction improved aiming system, a digital battlefield information terminal, a newly designed arrow-shaped armor, a larger turret, an expanded tail chamber, an Active Protection System mounted on the turret with millimeter-wave radar, a new commander's periscope and an Integrated Propulsion System.[5]

[edit] Type 99KM
The newest and much-improved variant, with newer modular active protection system, JD-4 active laser defense system, more powerful 2100-hp engine, and more. It is also equipped with a 155 mm gun capable of firing next-generation missiles and kinetic rounds.[6]

(from wikipedia. I am surprise to existence of Type-99KM,arm with 155mm tank gun)
 

Mcsweeney

Junior Member
I read that thing about the Type 99KM a while ago, but I still have not found a single GOOD source that confirms its existence. The original source was some Russian site that looked a little sketchy.
 

AssassinsMace

Lieutenant General
Posted by GT from SDF.

That turret looks massive in proportion to the chassis.

129155368878898.jpg

129155368894811.jpg
 

Blitzo

Lieutenant General
Staff member
Super Moderator
Registered Member
... So is this the A2 version?

The turret looks pretty darn big, could indicate extra armour and bustle autoloader.
Wish we could get a clearer picture of the APS...
 
Top