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NORINCO ZBD-100 FSV - The Hybrid Fire Support Vehicle
Hi and welcome to my 110th suggestion, which is about the Chinese ZBD-100, hope you like it. ![]()
First of all:
- Feel free to share more Information and / or correct me if something is wrong
- Discuss respectfully, any aggressive kind or verbal abuse will be reported, the Forum rules also apply here
- Please, keep distance from Political discussions, comments on that matter will be deleted
Basic Background
On October 3, 2016, Chinese state television CCTV indirectly confirmed for the first time the existence of a Chinese development program for a fourth-generation battle tank in its program “Great Craftsmen” (大国工匠). In an interview with Chief Lu Renfeng from the state-owned arms manufacturer China North Industries Group (NORINCO), it was mentioned that he had been involved in Chinese tank projects for 37 years – starting with the early Type 59 and continuing through to a fourth-generation battle tank that was under development at the time. This statement is considered the first official hint of such a program by Chinese authorities.
On October 9th 2022, another CCTV program entitled “Chasing the Light” showed a previously unknown tank that was heavily obscured and deliberately blurred. Based on the silhouette shown and the context, military observers speculated that it could be a prototype or technology demonstrator of a fourth-generation Chinese battle tank platform, possibly modular, similar to Armata.
In January 2023, this assessment was further reinforced when a technology demonstrator for a fourth-generation battle tank was presented at the Second International Forum for Engineering and Technology Strategy for Aerospace and Shipbuilding, as well as an IFV version, based on the same platform.
The ZBD-100 FSV Overall
The Type 100 is designed as a modern, modular battle tank and can be equipped with either a 105 mm cannon with an automatic loading system or, alternatively, a 30 mm autocannon turret (then ZBD-100). This modular “building block principle” allows the armament to be selected depending on the respective mission and at the same time simplifies maintenance, repair, and replacement of damaged weapon systems. The main armament is supplemented by a vertical launch system for loitering munitions.
The ZBD-100 uses the GL-6 active protection system, consisting of two turrets, each with two ready-to-use projectiles. Compared to its predecessor, the GL-5, it has expanded and newer sensor technology. Four millimeter wave radar antennas provide all-round surveillance, while an additional, small AESA Radar on top of the main sights specifically detects threats from the upper hemisphere, such as Drones, top attack ammunition or Aircraft.
In addition, an optoelectronic sensor station for detecting infrared signatures and laser warning sensors are integrated.
Powered by a hybrid drive system consisting of a 1,500 hp diesel engine, generator, battery storage, and electric drive motors, the ZBD-100 has a increased survivability, as the vehicle remains fully maneuverable on electric power alone in the event of failure or damage to the combustion engine. In addition, the electric powertrain takes into account the greatly increased energy requirements of modern on-board systems, as a separate auxiliary engine is no longer necessary.
Last but not least; a combat weight of less than 35 tons with a hull weight of less than 25 tons and is operated by a crew of three - top speed of approximately 65 km/h, and has a maximum range of around 500 kilometers.
Thanks for your time, hope you liked it ![]()
[Will add more if there are some (more) important / declassified things]
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