Image source: topwar.ru
On May 29, 2024, it was announced in the DPRK that the new tank, previously known by the designations M2020 and M2024, was officially named Cheonma-2.
- it says in the publication Army Recognition.
In the 1970s, the DPRK began production of its own Chonma-ho series tanks based on the Soviet T-62. There were several modifications to this line in the 1980s with improvements in armor, firepower, and mobility. In the 1990s, the appearance of the Songun-915, which incorporated the features of the Russian T-72 and the Chinese Type 88, marked a shift towards greater independence in defense production, although foreign technologies were still integrated.
Image source: topwar.ru
In the 21st century, Pyongyang introduced the Pokpung-ho, upgraded versions of which were influenced by the Soviet T-80 MBT and the Chinese Type 96. More recently, the M2020 and M2024 models, which are now called Cheonma-2, were demonstrated. The M2020 was first shown in October 2020 at a military parade. After that, this machine went into production, which gained accelerated momentum due to the modernization of production at the Kusong tank factory, including doubling production capacity. On March 14, 2024, a slightly modified version of the M2024 was presented during military exercises.
As indicated in the publication, Cheonma-2 has a tower "similar to that of the American M1A2 Abrams." It is equipped with 21 DZ units and 6 smoke PU. The hole located to the left of the gun is probably intended to accommodate a surveillance device. There are components resembling a KAZ in the front.
A PU for two ATGMS is installed in the tower, which can rotate like the TOW on the American Bradley. It is believed that these are Bulsae-3 missiles, similar to the Russian Kornet. DZ units, smoke grenade launchers and KAZ units are installed on each side of the tower. Meteorological equipment, antennas, surveillance systems, a commander's panoramic sight, a gunner's sight, an episcope, fire protection panels and a cargo storage box are installed in the upper part of the tower.
Image source: topwar.ru
The tank, with an estimated weight of 50-55 tons, is equipped with an engine with a capacity of at least 1200 hp, providing a maximum speed of about 65 km/h. It is probably equipped with modern SLMS and communication systems. The main armament is represented by a 125 mm smoothbore cannon, similar to the Soviet 2A46, which is capable of firing various types of projectiles and presumably works in conjunction with an automatic loader. Additional armament includes a 7.62mm twin machine gun and a 30 mm automatic grenade launcher.
As noted, the body, "similar to that of the Russian T-14 Armata, is equipped with 10 DZ units on each side, steps for the crew, periscopes for the driver, large grilles for removing heat from the engine and a modified exhaust system. The suspension system consists of 7 support rollers on each side. It is covered with protective armor plates and polymer or rubber shields. The lattice armor at the rear of the turret and on the sides provides additional protection, although it is absent in the rear of the hull.
