New Type98/99 MBT thread
- Thread starter Dongfeng
- Start date
kwaigonegin
Colonel
is it just me or does it look sorta vintage looking?
More close up of the tank.
That's mainly because it is rather tall relative to its width and boxy with a lot of protrusions beyond the main shape.
Most of the latest tanks from around the world are shorter relative to their widths and protrusions are nested in nooks or built into the main shape of the tank. A generally sleeker look.
While I totally agree with the logic it still sucks to be a ground equipment enthusiast and see China still using large numbers of not just bare bones Type 59's, but Type 63 APCs as well. These are tin can death traps not just against airpower but also against infantry with the original RPG-7 or LAW.
I totally see the same problem. If the PLA wants to keep the type 59s and 63s, at least put on a layer of explosive-reactive and side armor. It is like wearing body armor for infantry. For even small details like that, the PLA has failed. There are neither extra armor plates for Type59s and 63s nor kevlar body armor for mechanized infantry.
They will be replaced. But they serve the purpose for training tactics/maneuvers. It's not like an old tin can can't be used for training in the way that new ones can. So in terms of keeping the army in shape they are as good as brand new hardwares, as a major war on Chinese soil is not likely in the near future
Type 59D, but they are equipped in very small numbers, possibly even less than ZTZ-99. They are more like the PLA's transition to third generation MBT in the 1990's.Like this you mean:
kwaigonegin
Colonel
Yes, exactly.
Actually what I am hoping for was that there was a remote weapon system on the tank instead of the manually fired machinegun. China had showcase a number of this type of system and also offer them in the VT-4 tanks for export. Why don't they implement these system to their own tanks. I don't believe the Chinese didn't have the budget to do it.