Early Arjun variant
Posted on 01/20/2011 4:23:34 AM PST by sukhoi-30mki
Missile-firing capable Arjun Tank to go for user trials
2011-01-17 19:20:00
Last Updated: 2011-01-17 19:38:13
Tank Testing- Equipment
New Delhi: The advanced version of the indigenously-developed Main Battle Tank (MBT) Arjun would be ready for user trials in June, which could set the stage for induction in the Army of the weapon system which will have missile-firing capabilities and laser finders.
The tank would also be equipped with the indigenous explosive-reactive armour to protect it from enemy missiles and rockets.
The tank is likely to be equipped with the Laser Warning Suites and missile-firing capabilities, which are an advancement over the existing versions of the weapon system.
With a striking range of eight kms, the Arjun would be equipped with Laser Range Finders, which will help it to fire Laser Homing Anti Tank missiles to take on enemy tanks and low-level flying aircraft.
The two-phase project to develop the advanced version of the Arjun MK-II was cleared last year and these will be handed over to the Army for trials after the completion of technical trials, DRDO officials said here.
The tank would be developed further under the phase II of the project and would be sent to the Army for trials by the end of 2012, they added.
The Defence Ministry had sanctioned the development of Arjun MK-II with enhanced features over the first lot of 124 tanks that have been delivered to the army over the last two years.
Two regiments of the Arjun MK-I are already deployed in the Rajasthan sector by the Army and a further order for 124 tanks has been placed with the DRDO.
The Army had earlier decided to procure only 124 pieces of the Arjun, which has been under development since late 70s, but changed its stance after the indigenous tank emerged clear winner in competitive trials with the Russian-origin T-90 in March last year.
Early Arjun variant
Looks interesting. ATGW firing tanks have fell out of favor in recent years.
I don’t think that’s necessarily the case. The Russians and Chinese seem to be incorporating that capability in all their models since the 90s, while the Israelis have tested a laser guided missile called the LAHAT on their Merkava. The Arjun also conducted tests with the same missile a few years ago.
I realize that it provides both range+safety but it looks so soviet.
Actually those drums on the back are there so the tank can serve as a mobile Dhaba.
The drums hold the Tandoori chicken, Naan, parathas, Kheer, Aloo Tikki, Makke di Roti and Sarson ka Saag. The heat from the exhaust keeps it all warm, and brews the tea. Lassi is served out of the turret.
One must eat well in the Punjab! ;-)
I was thinking more of a lag since things like M60A2 and other shillelegh chuckers.
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