In Ukraine, they announced the testing of the next version of the Soviet T-64BV tank. Now this car of the 2022 model, modified by the specialists of the Kharkiv Armored Plant, has received "sights and devices of the third generation."
However, it is not specified whether we are talking about thermal imaging technology or infrared, with electron-optical converters. They vary significantly both in price and in the ability to detect targets.
As usual, another approach to the standards of the NATO bloc is announced - a new radio station has been installed instead of the old one. Plus, another intercom system has been introduced, navigation equipment has been installed.
It is said about the installation of aft lattice anti-cumulative screens, rubber shields should appear on the tower.
The fuel system has been improved and the armor protection of external fuel tanks has been installed. However, in the photos published by the Ukroboronprom concern, no strengthening of them is yet visible. The tank is generally presented "naked", without dynamic protection, bulwarks and other attachments.
However, it immediately catches the eye that the commander's turret is not equipped with a proven long-term operation of the NSVT "Cliff", but a new one, which appeared only last year, an experienced 12.7-mm Snipex Laska K-2 for 12.7 x 108mm cartridges, outwardly somewhat reminiscent of the classic overseas Browning M2.
It has no radical advantages over previous models. For example, the exact same sighting range for air targets (1500 meters) and ground targets (up to 2000 meters). In addition, it is unlikely that in such a short period of time the machine gun was, as they say, brought to mind.
Last year, it was reported about the successful cloning of the "Cliff", which received the designation KT-12.7, they wrote that tests should begin. However, apparently, its manufacturers are still experiencing big problems, and therefore they decided to try the K-2 on tanks.
In fact, the story repeats itself with automatic grenade launchers KBA-117 and KBA-119, copies of the AGS-17: their production seems to have been adjusted, but American Mark 19 mod.3 began to arrive in the troops.
Alexey Brusilov
