Image source: topwar.ru
Slovakia is considering the possibility of acquiring new tanks. However, at least until 2030, its army will have to be content with 30 copies of the T-72 and 15 Leopard 2A4 units.
- says the Slovak edition of Future Army.
As indicated, there are no significant differences between them in terms of technical parameters. Although the Leopard 2A4 is heavier, it has a significantly more powerful engine and therefore a higher speed. The T-72 has a 125 mm cannon, and the Leopard has a 120 mm cal. Here, the difference is also minimal, and the Leopard 2A4 compensates for it with a better fire control system.
- the author notes.
According to him, since the T-72 does not need a loader, it may have smaller interior spaces for the crew. Due to this, its body is 70 cm shorter than that of the Leopard 2A4. The weight is 8 tons less, so it can do with a significantly weaker engine, while its speed is only slightly lower compared to a German tank.
- the author writes.
Image source: topwar.ru
In his opinion, the placement of ammunition in the store directly under the tower is one of the biggest drawbacks of the T-72:
As indicated, the German designers took a different path. The ammunition supply is in a basket in the aft part of the tower. It is separated from the combat compartment by an armored panel, which opens during reloading. The plates on the ceiling of the tower above this basket are prepared in advance so that they will fly apart when the ammunition explodes. Thus, destructive energy is released upwards, and not into the fighting compartment.
According to the author, the 4th crew member in Leopard 2A4 provides a number of advantages. For example, tankers are responsible for basic maintenance and simple repairs of the machine entrusted to them:
As a rule, the loader in Leopard 2 has advanced training and, if necessary, can replace any crew member. He facilitates the work of the tank commander by taking over some of his tasks, for example, providing communications. He also controls an additional machine gun on the ceiling of the tower.
- the author believes.
In his opinion, a well-trained loader in Leopard 2 can place a projectile in less than 4 seconds, which completely deprives automation of the advantage.
