The latest version of the Merkava the Mk3 Main Battle Tank -- was unveiled in Israel in May, on the eve of Israel's 41st Independence Day. Based on the general concept of the Merkava s earlier model the new version contains a wide range of improvements. which virtually make it a new tank.

Modular Armor

The Merkava Mk. 3s new armor protection offers "special armor bolted to the hull and turret, instead of traditional steel cast plates. Repair crews can easily replace damaged modules in the field. The new "special armor* is passive, and offers protection from both hollow charge and kinetic attack. A further advantage is that, in the future, as advanced technology makes it possible, new armor can replace the old.

The new armor has actually reduced the weight of the vehicle by one ton, to 62 tons, and thereby increased the power-to-weight ratio to 20 hp/ton. Seventy percent of the weight is dedicated to frontal arc protection.

Armament and Fire Control

One of the most prominent elements in the new tank is its main armament -- the IMI (Israeli Military Industries) 120-mm smooth bore gun. The locally designed and produced gun is adapted to fire IMI ammunition as well as American or German 120-mm rounds. The 120mm ammunition uses fixed rounds with combustible cartridges. The 50 rounds (62 in Mk1 and 2) are each placed inside the tank in individual fire resistant containers and maitained at constant low temperature, enhancing crew protection.

A 60mm mortar, which the loader can fire from inside the turret. fires smoke, HE, and illumination.

A new fire control system includes advanced subsystems such as a laser rangefinder, a common optical system for day and night vision for the commander and gunner, and a new ballistic computer. The FCS ties in with the turret traverse and gun., laying controls. allowing line-of-sight stabilization for the commander and gunner, and links to the electrically driven turret control system. It offers accurate firing whilr on the move.

Mobility

The American AVDS-1700-9AR Teledyne/Continental engine is an uprated version of the 750-hp power pack used in the Israeli M60 series, upgraded Centurion, and former Merkava models, but it now, provides 1,200 hp.

The new suspension is characterized by a powerful spring and a! rotary coil spring system, differing: from the former double spring sytem. The first road wheel is strengthened to absorb shock. Built of ballistic steel, the suspension also contributes to the protection of the hull. Unlike torsion burs, the Merkava's suspension is fitted externally so that each unit can be replaced rapidly in the field.

Other Features

Foreign sourccs claim the tank uses sensors for both laser and mine detection. With early warning, the tank crew could take evasive action or counter the threat with quick reaction gunnery.

IMI CL-3030 smoke dischargers on both sides of the turret.

Fast reaction fire detection and suppression systems in the fighting and engine compartments are hardened against electromagnetic interference.

0verpressurized fighting copartment, with provision for central filter and crew air conditioning.

The Merkava Mk3 will become operational with IDF tank units in 1990.