![]() ![]() Second, this compartment was exceptionally roomy, allowing several infantrymen and their equipment to embark. But the positioning of the engine at the front was a deliberate attention to crew protection, as it participates in the frontal defense of the fighting compartment. Systems integration, including sights and weaponry, were performed by Israel Military Industries (IMI).Īt first, the Merkava’s most striking aspect was its rearwards turret, a feature more common in SPGs than MBTs. The design, development, and assembly of the Mk.I and subsequent modernized series were performed by MANTAK arsenal along with IDF Ordnance Corps and other contractors. By then, it was made public in May, and the official acceptance into service with Tsahal was ratified in December 1978, when the first series had been delivered. The "Merkava" (derived from ancient Hebrew word meaning "chariot"), was also the name of the entire domestic tank project since 1973 and saw nearly a full year of development before a full-scale production could be started in 1977. All were briefly tested before a stage of complete modifications, performed by the brand new Tel HaShomer ordnance depot, which was specially tailored around the Merkava. Combining speed, endurance, firepower and accuracy with high survivability requirements and an emphasis put on crew protection.Īfter the plans were ready by 1974, construction of several prototypes began. In short, the Merkava was the embodiment of the ideal MBT for Tsahal. The first prototype was ready in 1974, heavily drawing on lessons learned from the 1973 October War. This prompted the designing of a local tank, which would become the Merkava. The Israelis initially wanted to acquire Chieftains from Great Britain, but the British Government decided in 1969 to cancel any weapon deliveries to Israel, and therefore the project was halted. The Merkava was designed soon after the Yom Kippur War (1973). The armored symbol of which is the Merkava, a reference to the ancient war chariots of the days of King Solomon. The country forged in fifty years, with limited foreign assistance, a powerful, modern defense force. Since the war of 1956, Israel learned how to deal with far superior forces with limited resources and astonished the world with its fast, daring tactics and unexpected victories. Merkava Main Battle Tank series (1978) Main Battle Tank - about 2000 built, still in production Learning tank warfare the hard way ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |