The crews of the Chinese ZTZ-99A tanks demonstrated the use of guided missile weapons.
Application of the TOUR in China. Video: Weibo pic.twitter.com/efUd3cXzE2
— Ivan O'Gilvi (@o_gilvi) July 30, 2021
These combat vehicles, also known as Type 99A, are equipped with 125-mm modifications of the Russian 2A46 smoothbore guns (D-81TM). They can launch cumulative ammunition guided by a laser beam through the barrels of guns, which are analogs of the 9M119M complex "Reflex-M".
However, such exercises have never been shown before, and some of the experts even began to claim that the PRC decided not to develop such tours, but focused on the development of new feathered armor-piercing sub-caliber shells with improved characteristics. In fact, the industry of the Middle Kingdom is working in all directions.
It is known that such missiles can destroy targets at distances of more than 5000 meters, and gunners-operators have the opportunity to hunt not only for various armored vehicles, but also low-flying enemy helicopters.
Lighter ATGMs are also included in the ammunition of the latest modifications of Type 59A medium tanks, ZBD-04 infantry fighting vehicles. Apparently, there is also a version of the 105 mm caliber.
Given the success of the Chinese industry in creating third-generation missiles, such as the HJ-12 complexes, it is possible that in the foreseeable future there will be tank ammunition operating on the principle of "shot-forgot".
Alexey Brusilov
