What gun does the Merkava use?
MG253 smoothbore gun
| Merkava | |
|---|---|
| Armor | Classified composite/sloped armour modular design. |
| Main armament | 120 mm (4.7 in) MG253 smoothbore gun, capable of firing LAHAT ATGM |
| Secondary armament | 1 × 12.7 mm (0.50 in) MG 3 × 7.62 mm (0.300 in) MG 1 × Mk 19 grenade launcher 1 × 60 mm (2.4 in) internal mortar 12 × smoke grenades |
How far can a Merkava shoot?
However, the Merkava IV has an upgraded 1,500 horsepower diesel engine, allowing it to attain 40 miles per hour, largely closing the gap. The M1’s turbine engine is also an infamously demanding beast, limiting the vehicle to an operational range of 265 miles compared to 310 for the Merkava IV.
How strong is the Merkava?
Merkavas destroyed several eight T-72s at ranges of up to four thousand meters, without loss to a single T-72. Israel’s frequent wars have resulted in a consistent flow of combat experience, resulting in new and progressively improved Merkava tanks.
What kind of gun does a Merkava use?
A profile of a Merkava Mk 4M tank, armed with an IMI 120 mm gun, a M2 Browning .50-cal, a 7.62×51 mm NATO commander’s FN MAG, and equipped with the Trophy active protection system.
What does Merkava stand for?
The Merkava ( Hebrew: מרכבה , [mɛʁkaˈva] ( listen), ” chariot “) is a series of main battle tanks used by the Israel Defense Forces and is the backbone of the IDF’s armored corps. The tank began development in 1970, and its first generation – the Merkava mark 1 – entered official service in 1979.
What is the difference between the Merkava II and the III?
As of 2016, the Merkava III is by far the most numerous tank in frontline IDF service. Compared to the Merkava II, it has upgrades to the drivetrain, powertrain, armament, and electronic systems. The most prominent addition was the incorporation of the locally developed IMI 120 mm gun.
When was the first Merkava tank made?
The tank began development in 1970, and its first generation – the Merkava mark 1 – entered official service in 1979. Four main variants have been deployed, with the Merkava mark 4 being the latest version. The Merkava was first used extensively in the 1982 Lebanon War. The name “Merkava” was derived from the IDF’s initial development program name.