In Ukraine, during the discussion of plans to modernize the existing fleet of T-64 tanks, the question of the possible installation of 120-mm "NATO guns"on combat vehicles was raised.
As the Defense Express portal notes, the lack of own production of 125-mm shells for the guns currently in service speaks in favor of this decision.
However, new 120-mm ammunition is also not produced, they will still have to be purchased abroad at much higher prices.
There are also a lot of technical problems that will make it very difficult to work in this direction. For example, to implement such plans, you will need a welded-rolled tower, which needs to be replaced by a regular cast one.
The existing loading mechanism of the "sixty-fourth" works only with Soviet separate shots and is not suitable for a unitary 120-mm ammunition. Therefore, we will have to make a new automated system, similar to the one used on the T-84-120 "Yatagan" with its installation in an abandoned space.
But the tower with a developed aft part, overhanging the engine and transmission compartment, will significantly complicate its cooling. As a result, the 100-horsepower 6TD engine will overheat, which will negate maneuverability, driving and operational characteristics. As a result, there is a need to refine the cooling system.
It should also be noted that all these innovations will increase the weight and increase the load on the chassis. If you redo it, it is again an additional expense. It is unknown how much time all these works will take in modern Ukrainian realities and how it will end.
Alexey Brusilov
