Comparing different types of armored vehicles of the same class is a favorite pastime of specialists and amateurs of military affairs. Often, the emergence of new comparisons is facilitated by the situation in certain regions. Thus, the situation in the Middle East remains tense, which leads to the risk of a full-scale armed conflict between several countries. Naturally, modern models of combat vehicles will participate in such a war. Imagine that the main T-90MS and Merkava-4 tanks of Russian and Israeli production, respectively, met on the battlefield. Which armored vehicle will be able to end the battle with a victory?
Tanks "Merkava-4" are the newest and most advanced vehicles of their class in the Israel Defense Forces. They entered the army in the middle of the last decade and gradually became the backbone of the armored forces. Over the past time, several modernizations of equipment have been carried out, as a result of which it received certain new units and capabilities. This does not stop the update process. It is already known about the work on a new modification of the tank.
Tanks "Merkava-4" in service. Photo Wikimedia Commons
The Russian T-90MS tank is an export version of the T-90AM Proryv vehicle. This project started in the middle of the last decade, and the finished car was first shown in 2011. The Breakthrough project provided for a deep modernization of the existing T-90 tank, aimed at improving the technical and combat characteristics. As part of the updated machine, modern components are used, due to which increased performance is achieved.
During a hypothetical Middle East conflict, Merkava-4 tanks can only be used by the Israeli army. Despite the long history, armored vehicles of the "Merkava" family are in service only in Israel. Other countries have shown interest in such technology, but it has not yet led to real deliveries. The T-90MS tank also did not manage to get into the army yet. The previous samples of the T-90 family were actively sold and serve all over the world, but the latest deep modernization has not yet been mass-produced for customers. In the future, the sale of such equipment to some Middle Eastern countries, for example, Syria, is not excluded. It is she who can be considered as the operator of the T-90MS in a hypothetical war.
Mobility
One of the main factors influencing the fighting qualities of the tank, and therefore the outcome of the battle, is mobility. The armored vehicle must be able to move across the battlefield at a given speed, not paying attention to irregularities or obstacles, thereby ensuring timely access to a firing position and achieving advantages over the enemy.
Israeli tanks "Merkava-4" are equipped with diesel engines General Dynamics GD883 with a capacity of 1500 hp. The combat weight of the vehicle, depending on the configuration, exceeds 65 tons. Thus, the specific power of the tank cannot be higher than 23 hp. per ton. The engine is mated to an automatic hydromechanical transmission. The machine is equipped with a spring suspension undercarriage. At the same time, there are means that protect the moving parts of the suspension from the negative effects of soil or stones.
Experienced T-90MS. Photo Wikimedia Commons
In the aft compartment of the T-90MS, a V-92S2F 1130 hp diesel engine is mounted, connected to an automatic transmission. According to the results of the modernization, this tank weighs 48 tons, which makes it possible to obtain a specific power of at least 23.5 hp. per ton. The chassis with a torsion bar suspension, which is traditional for domestic tank building, is used again, which does not need additional protection.
Tanks T-90MS and "Merkava-4" differ little from each other in their power density. Nevertheless, the weight of the vehicles has a significant effect on their performance. Thus, an Israeli tank accelerates to 64 km / h on a highway, while a Russian one is capable of developing 70 km / h. The T-90MS also has a significant power reserve advantage. It should be noted that the large mass of "Merkava-4" can worsen strategic mobility, limiting the choice of routes for the transfer of such equipment. However, the peculiarities of the operation of the equipment and the strategy of the IDF make it possible not to encounter such problems. Israeli tanks were created taking into account the operation only in their own region, and they are not planned to be sent to other areas.
In general, it follows from the available data that the T-90MS is capable of showing higher mobility characteristics, both on roads and in rough terrain. A well-trained crew will be able to use these advantages in combat to reach an advantageous position more quickly.
Protection
Another factor affecting the overall effectiveness of the tank is its survivability, which, in turn, is made up of a combination of protection, layout solutions, etc. It should be noted that the Russian tank building traditionally searches for the optimal combination of all the main characteristics, while Israeli engineers focus on protection. This leads to the appearance of characteristic differences between the two cars.
"Merkava-4" at the test site. Photo IDF
According to known data, the frontal projection of the "Merkava-4" is covered with combined armor with metal and ceramic parts. Other projections, to save weight, are protected by homogeneous armor. A characteristic feature of the Israeli tank is the large slope of the upper frontal part of the hull. Also, to improve the protection of the crew, a non-standard front-engine layout was used, in which the engine and transmission are an additional obstacle in the path of the projectile. In addition, there are no potentially fire hazardous hydraulic systems and ammunition in the crew compartment. The design of the hull also takes into account the need to protect against explosive devices under the tracks or the bottom.
Previously, the IDF actively used reactive armor systems, but the Merkava-4 does not have such equipment. Nevertheless, a few years ago, such tanks began to be massively equipped with the Meil Ruach active protection system designed to intercept incoming ammunition. According to open sources, in its modern configuration, the Merkava-4 can intercept grenades and missiles, and also withstand the impact of various shells. In this case, however, the exact parameters of the armor were not disclosed.
From its predecessors, the Russian T-90MS "inherited" a combined frontal protection made of armored steel, supplemented with metal and ceramic plates. The frontal projection also has a modern integrated dynamic protection "Relic". According to the developers of the tank and the protection for it, the combination of combined armor and "Relic" can withstand the hit of most modern anti-tank ammunition. The sides and stern of the hull have homogeneous protection, which is complemented by different types of side screens.
A modification of the T-90AM tank for the Russian army can be equipped with some elements of the Afghanit active protection system. For the export vehicle T-90MS, it was proposed to use KAZ "Arena-E" with different characteristics. When using all available means, the T-90MS is able to protect itself from various attacks, with some threats being intercepted at a safe distance.
T-90MS on the track. Photo Vitalykuzmin.net
The lack of complete data on the level of protection does not allow an objective comparison of the two tanks. For this reason, they look equal, although some of their features can give advantages over a competitor. Thus, the T-90MS is favorably distinguished by the presence of a complete set in the form of combined, dynamic and active protection, supplemented by cutting screens. Lacking dynamic protection, "Merkava-4" can boast of a special layout that increases the survivability of the crew when attacking from the front hemisphere.
Supervision and control
To realize the full potential of weapons without undue risks, a modern tank must have effective surveillance and fire control systems. In addition, he needs communication systems that provide the exchange of data on the tactical situation with the command or other combat vehicles. All these requirements were taken into account in the Russian and Israeli projects.
Tanks "Merkava-4" of the latest series are equipped with a fire control system BAZ and communication equipment such as BMS. The MSA includes a commander's panoramic sight and an optoelectronic gunner's unit, stabilized in two planes. The commander and gunner have day and night cameras at their disposal, as well as a laser rangefinder. There is a ballistic computer and a target tracking machine. According to various sources, the search for targets and firing at a distance of up to 6-8 km is provided during the day and night. The BMS communication system provides the exchange of data on the situation on the battlefield, the reception and issuance of target designation.
The T-90MS project provides for the use of the modern "Kalina" control system. The commander and gunner have combined (day-night) sights at their disposal, and the commander's panoramic sight is located on the roof of the tower. Armament and sights are stabilized in two planes. Automation provides target identification and tracking, data generation for firing, etc. There is a complex of communication facilities for interaction and data transmission at the battalion level. Navigation equipment is provided using satellite signals. OMS "Kalina" provides observation of the situation in any conditions and the use of weapons in the entire range of ranges.
The LAHAT guided missile included in the ammunition load of the MG253 gun. Photo Wikimedia Commons
According to the available data, the BAZ and Kalina fire control systems can currently claim leading positions and are among the best examples of their kind in the world. They are able to successfully ensure the search for targets with their subsequent destruction using standard weapons. The high perfection of the OMS makes special demands on the training of the crew. In fact, the outcome of the confrontation depends not only on the technique, but also on the skills of the tankers.
Armament
The ultimate goal of using modern means of protection and control is the safe and effective use of weapons to defeat the enemy. "Merkava-4" and T-90MS belong to different schools of tank building, but they embody the most modern approach to the creation of weapon systems.
In the turret of the tank for the IDF, a 120-mm smooth-bore MG253 cannon-launcher with a 50-caliber barrel is installed - a reworked version of the well-known Rh-120 cannon. This product can use all existing 120mm tank gun projectiles that meet NATO standards. At the same time, the Israeli industry produces several of its own types of ammunition. Armor-piercing shells for MG253 are capable of penetrating at least 600-650 mm of homogeneous armor. The ammunition load of the Merkava-4 includes LAHAT guided missiles launched through the barrel. The declared flight range is up to 8 km and armor penetration up to 800 mm behind ERA.
Ammunition is fed into the gun using a semi-automatic system with a 10-round drum. Another 38 shots are stored in a separate stack and fed into the drum manually. It is argued that this speeds up the process of preparing for a shot by automatically searching for the required projectile and mechanized ramming.
Rocket 9M119M for the 2A46 gun. Photo Vitalykuzmin.net
The additional armament complex includes a pair of rifle-caliber machine guns. One is mounted on the gun mount, the other on the turret roof. There is also a remotely controlled installation with a heavy machine gun. Smoke grenade launchers are located on the tower. "Merkava-4", like its predecessors, can carry a 60-mm mortar.
The T-90MS project provides for the use of a 125-mm smooth-bore gun-launcher 2A46M-5 with a barrel length of 48 calibers. An updated automatic loader mates with the gun. The gun's ammunition consists of 40 separate loading rounds. 22 are located in the automatic loader in the lower part of the fighting compartment, 8 more are in the hull stowage. Additional stowage for 10 shots is organized in the new aft recess of the turret. The 2A46M-5 cannon is compatible with all domestic 125 mm ammunition. Armor-piercing shells of the latest models are capable of penetrating up to 600-650 mm of homogeneous armor. Also, the T-90MS carries a 9K119M Reflex-M guided weapon system with 9M119M and 9M119M1 anti-tank missiles. The flight range of such missiles reaches 5 km. Armor penetration - up to 900 mm behind ERA.
A coaxial PKTM machine gun is placed on the same mount with the gun. The second such product is mounted on a remotely controlled combat module. In addition, the additional armament includes a set of smoke grenade launchers.
A curious situation is observed in the field of weapons. When using artillery shells of existing types "Merkava-4" and T-90MS can show similar characteristics and combat qualities. However, with the use of guided missiles, the situation changes in favor of the Israeli tank. The newer LAHAT complex has advantages in firing range, although it loses to Reflex in terms of penetration. The advantage of the "Merkava-4" can be considered a greater number of machine guns, as well as the use of a large-caliber M2HB.
Serial tank "Merkava-4" with active protection complex. Photo Wikimedia Commons
Who will win?
A cursory examination of two modern combat vehicles that may collide in hypothetical battles in the Middle East reveals a very interesting situation. With only open information, it is impossible to say with certainty that any of the machines under consideration has clear advantages over the other. In some areas, the leadership is held by the "Merkava-4", while in others the T-90MS looks more successful. Based on this, obvious conclusions can be drawn.
In the field of mobility and strategic mobility, a lighter and more compact Russian-made main tank has great advantages. In terms of survivability, the two tanks appear to be similar, although the same level of resistance protection is achieved in different ways. The same is the case in the field of fire control, communications and control systems. In terms of armament, the Merkava-4 and the T-90MS are similar, although the presence of longer-range missiles gives the Israeli tank an advantage.
A rather interesting picture is emerging. It turns out that in order to successfully complete a hypothetical battle, the T-90MS must use its advantages in mobility, and the Merkava-4 for the same purposes will have to use effective surveillance equipment and relatively long-range missiles. At the same time, both vehicles can hardly count on the successful defeat of the enemy with the first well-aimed shot, since they have serious protection of various kinds.
Thus, when two tanks collide, "pure" tactical and technical characteristics lose their significance to a certain extent. At the same time, the importance of communications and control equipment, as well as crew training, is growing. In this case, the combat vehicle that receives information about the enemy's presence earlier, as well as detects it faster and, using its technical advantages, will deliver a decisive blow, will have a great chance of winning.
T-90MS at the moment after the shot. Photo Vitalykuzmin.net
Modern military equipment is distinguished by high performance and certain perfection. The development of weapons systems and other devices has led to the most serious growth in the importance of auxiliary systems and personnel training. As a result, the results of the collision between the "Merkava-4" and the T-90MS will depend, first of all, on specific people. Which crews will face in a hypothetical battle is a separate question.
A direct comparison of any modern tanks from leading manufacturers can end up with the most interesting conclusions. A modern main battle tank is not a combat unit that operates independently and in isolation from other structures. The effectiveness of his combat work directly depends on intelligence, communications and command systems. In addition, the training of personnel, both tank crews and command personnel, is of particular importance.
The situation in the Middle East is not changing and there is still a risk of a full-scale armed conflict with the participation of a number of countries in the region. In such a war, a wide variety of armored vehicles in service will be used; tanks "Merkava-4" and vehicles of the T-90 family can become its participants. As you can see, the results of battles using such a technique depend on many factors and are hardly predictable.
