One of the most successful post-war tank designs of all time. By Staff Writer
The Soviet-era T-72 Main Battle Tank is closely related to the T-64. The T-72 features a low-profile and is arguable one of the most recognizable of the Soviet-post war designs ever made. The weapon system as a whole is also one of the most successful Soviet-engineered designs of all time next to it's predecessor - the T34 World War Two-era tank.
The T-72 (sometimes referred to as the 'Ural' to designate it's place of origin) is powered by a V-12 multi-fuel diesel engine that is capable of running on diesel, benzene or kerosene. For extension of maximum operational range, the T-72 can be fitted with two 200 liter drums which can be tactically jettisoned from within (if battlefield situations require it) or when empty.
It is estimated that nearly 20,000 T-72-series of main battle tanks are still in active service in some frontline form. It's success within former Soviet-supported states such as Croatia and Romania are evident as the T-72 system is produced under license there.
The T-72 features an effective 2A46 Smooth-bore 125mm main gun in a powered three-man turret. The turret features an autoloader (up to 8 rounds per minute sustained firing) negating the need for another crewman in the turret. Amphibious capability is possible with some required specialized setup.
Explosive reactive armor, night vision equipment, and full NBC protection modernization programs have extended the life of the system well into the present century. The chassis itself has also proven to be extremely durable and adaptable to a variety of battlefield-inspired roles (a necessity on today’s budget-conscious battlefield).
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Armored Vehicle Quick Profile
Image Courtesy of the United States Department of Defense.
1974
Designation:T-72 Classification Type:Main Battle Tank Contractor:Chelybinsk, Nizhnyi Tagil and Kirov - Russia Country of Origin: Soviet Union Number Built: Not Available
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