T-72M4 CZ (T-72M1)

History

The Soviet T-72 Main Battle Tank (MBT) became a major export for Soviet Cold War allies after its introduction in the 1970s - around 25,000 were produced for use worldwide. Operators include Czechoslovakia, which eventually manages hundreds of such examples in its inventory.

With the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, followed by Czechoslovakia in 1993, the newly formed Czech Republic inherited the tank stock and continued its combat use. Over time, about 30 were asked to upgrade to the newer, more modern local standard, designated "T-72M4 CZ."

The T-72M4 CZ is a major overhaul of the base production T-72M1. Nearly every major aspect of the fighter has been redesigned or replaced, including power packs, crew positions and vehicle survivability. Part of the work is facilitated by foreign companies such as Israel's NIMDA.

A fully digitally assisted main gun increases lethality, and a laser rangefinder/thermal imaging system is installed at the commander's position (as is the day and night panoramic sight). The laser warning system (originated in Poland) improves crew and tank survivability by increasing situational awareness.

The engine is now an American Perkins CV12-1000 water-cooled diesel engine producing 1,000 horsepower, mated to an American Allison XTG-411-6 automatic transmission system. The main gun is still the Soviet-era 125mm smoothbore gun, but completely new ammunition has been developed locally for it, increasing the penetration value at range (although the weapon stabilization hardware is a holdover).

In addition to the extended use of Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA) blocks for self-defense, the vehicle is also equipped with electronically powered smoke grenade launchers for self-defense effects. Side skit armor improves protection against side attacks on the upper rail system.

Due to its origins in the T-72 design, the T-72M4 CZ also shares the original tank's low profile and crew of three (as well as the main gun's autoloader).

These changes resulted in the tank being heavier, but more powerful and better protected than what was used before. However, the resulting commitment also produced T-72 derivatives that depended on foreign components, which led to higher unit costs.

The Czech Army initially ordered around 350 of the new Standard from their existing T-72 inventory, but this total was reduced to 140 due to budget constraints. The additional pressure forced only 30 cars to fall under the revised contractual obligations.

The series works from 2003 to 2006. The VT-72M4 CZ is an Armored Rescue Vehicle (ARV) based on the T-72M4 CZ.

Specification

Basic

Roles

Dimensions

Performance

Performance

Armor

39 x 125mm bullet

300 x 12.7mm ammo

2,000 x 7.62mm ammo

12 x Smoke Grenade

Changes