At the international aviation and space salon Airshow China 2021 in Zhuhai, an unusual piece of equipment is presented. Outwardly, it is very similar to the American M1 Abrams main battle tank, although it is painted in an uncharacteristic pixel camouflage for overseas equipment.
Ngeri, Cina Jadikan MBT Abrams Sebagai Sasaran Tembak https://t.co/qYh7Z1pcj1 pic.twitter.com/SPQ6YcTawc
— Indomiliter.com (@indomiliter) September 29, 2021
As you can see from the photos, its track belts and rollers are not real, but this model moves on ordinary car wheels. Judging by the accompanying materials, we have one of the special machines in front of us, which should represent a maneuvering enemy in the exercises. If such an object is located at some distance from real tanks, it will be quite similar to the real target.
Of course, this M1 will not always be shot with live ammunition, it is known that laser defeat simulators are actively used in the exercises of the Chinese army.
The fake Abrams weighs only 3000 kg, a three-axle chassis with a diesel engine is used as a platform. Full fuel tanks allow you to drive 200 km. Its length is 9.75 m, width - 3.75 m, height - 2.45 m. As reported, the maximum speed on the highway can reach 86 km / h.
The "tank" can be controlled from the inside or with the help of special radio equipment at a distance of up to 5000 meters. An experienced operator can significantly complicate the performance of training tasks for opposing crews.
The explanatory materials mention that in addition to heavy equipment, developers are also ready to supply vehicles made in the form of infantry fighting vehicles or armored vehicles.
Similar samples have already found application in many armies of the world. They make it possible to increase the safety of the educational process, as well as save the resource of this material part.
Alexey Moiseev