- Yes, as a tech tree vehicle.
- Yes, as an event vehicle.
- Yes, as a squadron vehicle.
- Yes, as a premium vehicle.
- No
- China.
- Soviet.
- Israel.
- Japan (ASEAN Subtree).
- I said no.
- 9.3
- 9.7
- 10.0
- 10.3
- 10.7
- 11.0
- I said no.
This is a suggestion for the T-54M3 , a modernization prototype developed by Elbit Systems for the PAVN.
History:
Spoiler
In the late 1990s, Vietnam sought to upgrade their massive fleet of approximately 850 outdated T-54, T-55, and Type 59 tanks. They turned to Israel for assistance, and at an unspecified date and location in Israel, Vietnamese representatives were presented with an example of the Tiran-5Sh. The Vietnamese delegation was impressed and expressed interest in commissioning an upgraded prototype T-54. Unfortunately, delays and pushback from within the PAVN slowed the formal request for years.
In 2009, Vietnam finally requested a prototype upgrade for the T-54/55 from Elbit Systems, based on their previous work on the Slovenian M-55S1 and with assistance from Nimda. The new prototype from Elbit, distinguished by the serial no. 153, featured extensive modifications and a unique three tone camouflage scheme that was never used by the IDF or the PAVN before.
Elbit replaced the original 100mm D-10T2S cannon with a 105mm cannon of unknown origin (likely the L7, M68, or IMI M64 L71A) and equipped it with a thermal sleeve. This 105mm cannon could fire standard NATO ammunition, though it is unknown exactly which rounds the PAVN planned to use, as they eventually opted to retain the original 100mm cannon in the simplified production variant. It is possible that Israel imported some M428 APFSDS for testing. The tank was also equipped with the advanced Indra Sistemas TIFCS-3BU FCS featuring a two plane stabilizer, TSGS-54BU laser rangefinder, and a 3rd Gen thermal camera (available in cooled 3-5 µm or uncooled 8-12 µm ranges). The system allowed for hunter killer operations, letting the commander see the gunner’s sight, aim, and shoot. The servo system was also completely upgraded for much faster turret traverse.
The PKT machine gun was retained, while the DShK was replaced by an NSV. A 60mm mortar was mounted to the left side of the turret, capable of firing flares, smoke, and anti infantry fragmentation shells. A MAWS6056B meteorological sensor was mounted on the roof to measure wind speed, direction, ambient temperature, and atmospheric pressure; this sensor mast could be lowered or raised and transmit data to other vehicles. The old radio system was replaced with a new RF2050 radio system.
The vehicle also featured two IMI CL-3030 IS-6 smoke launcher systems mounted on the rear side of the turret, with 12 smoke grenades (six per side) connected to a LWS that would automatically launch a smokescreen if painted. It was also capable of using ESS.
Protection was heavily upgraded. The front hull was fitted with mounting points for Super Blazer ERA (similar to the Slovenian M-55S) and the turret was fitted with unknown composite/ERA blocks (possibly SLERA) capable of stopping ATGM threats like the 9K111 Fagot or 9M113 Konkurs. Slat armor was fitted to the rear, with “Venus Hair” chains on the lower turret rear. Composite skirts were mounted on the sides of the hull, and the surface was covered with anti reflection coating and low IR paint.
With all the upgrades, the vehicle is estimated to weigh around 40-41 tons. Consequently, the original engine was switched to a new 1000 hp model of unknown German origin, possibly the MTU MT 881 (1000 hp @ 2700 rpm). The gearbox and transmission are of Ukrainian origin, though their specific models remain unknown. The driver received a driving computer to calculate tilt and speed, as well as a new hydraulic power steering system.
The T-54M3 was successfully tested in 2011. However, with an estimated cost of $3-4 million per unit, it was only slightly cheaper than buying a brand new T-90S. As a result, the production variant was simplified into the T-54M (which you can read about here: T-54M or T-54B Cải Tiến). A total of 3 prototypes were built: 1 by Elbit Systems and 2 by factory Z153.
Specifications:
Spoiler
Dimensions (L/W/H): 9.00 x 3.37 x 2.40 m
Weight: ~41 tons
Crew: 4 (driver, commander, gunner and loader)
Speed: ~55-60 km/h
Engine: 1,000hp German engine (Likely MTU 881, 1000 hp @ 2700 rpm)
Transmission: Automatic (Ukrainian origin)
Suspension: Torsion Bar
Armament:
Spoiler
1x 105mm of unknown origin (N/A ammo but the PAVN would likely purchase ammunition from Israel, potentially gaining access to the M428 SWORD.) (Capacity: 34, based on the Tiran-4S)
1x 7.62mm PKT
1x 12.7mm NSV
2x CL-3030 IS-6 (12 smoke grenade, fire a pair of of grenade per shot, up to 6 shot).
1x 60 mm Soltam Mortar.
In game:
This would likely sit around BR 9.3-9.7. While it has an upgraded engine and Gen 3 thermals, the chassis is still a T-54. If it gets M428 SWORD, it could push to 10.0, but 10.3+ might be too high given the lack of armor.
Photo:
Spoiler
Look like the same tank but with different marking, one with T-54M3 and one with T-55M3. Idk what is going on here, can someone clarify?
Note: seems like the one with lettering on the front hull: T-54M3 and T-55M3 are from Z153 and the one without are the Elbit System prototype? Need someone to clarify this to me.
Source:
Spoiler
T-54M3 and T-55M3 - Tank Encyclopedia
Military meteorological sensor MAWS6056B – Irdam
Twitter - Lee Ann Quann
armyrecognition.com
DEFENSE STUDIES: Vietnam will Upgrade 310 T-54 Tanks
Army Guide
Indra TIFCS-3B FCS
Tăng T-55 Việt Nam trang bị giáp phản ứng nổ của Israel
Facebook - Tổng hợp những hình ảnh của xe tăng T-55M3