NORINCO Type 15 (VT-5 / ZTQ-15)

History

China North Industries Group Corporation (NORINCO) unveiled a new light tank called the "Type 15" (or "VT-5" for export) at the 2016 Zhuhai Air Show. The vehicle was approved by Chinese authorities in December 2018 and is said to be in service at the same time.

The Type 15 is a low-cost/low-risk attempt that takes into account both the Chinese domestic market and the global export market, targeting countries that consider more modern main battle tanks (MBTs) economically "out of reach" The army, needs more firepower and power than multi-wheeled light/light armored tank systems.

Type 15 is also known as VT-5 and ZTQ-15.

The drive sprocket for the landing gear is mounted at the rear and the chain idler is mounted at the front. There are six wheels with twin tires on each side of the hull.

The upper area of ??the wheel, as well as the area of ??the upper rail connection section, is protected by "rock" armor, further reinforced by ERA (Explosive Reactive Armor) blocks.

Propulsion comes from an electronically controlled 1,000 hp turbo diesel engine located in the rear of the fuselage and linked to a fully automatic transmission system. The hull is suspended on a hydropneumatic suspension system for excellent off-road performance.

Performance includes a top speed of 43 mph and a maximum range of 500 miles. Like other Chinese, Soviet and Russian tanks, the T-15 is likely to have inherent amphibious capabilities.

The full helmet can weigh up to 36 tons. The vehicle's compact size and relatively low weight allow it to be carried and deployed in the belly of a military transport aircraft.

In addition to these features, the Type 15 has a panoramic view, night vision support and a state-of-the-art digital Fire Control System (FCS). Armor protection is against small arms fire and artillery jets, as well as some small caliber field guns.

A full nuclear-bio-chemical (NBC) suite is standard, as are air conditioning, full navigation support and command equipment.

Specification

Basic

Roles

Dimensions

Performance

Performance

Armor

Estimate:

40 x 105mm projectile.

2,000 x 7.62mm ammo.

600x12.7mm ammo.

100 x 40mm shells.

8 x Smoke Grenade.

Changes