Another indication is that the APS seems very similar to the new APS revealed on the ZTZ99A only like a month or two ago.
Actually, I think that a 122mm version does exist. the brochure states "榴弹“ or HE for 122mm. I think this is just the case of VA-1 not being specifically mentioned. After all, VN-22 and VN-23 are modular designs that can fit many different turrets or combat modules, similar to modern NATO wheeled AFVs like Boxer.
Thanks. There is one VN23 in the static display area of the airshow with what seems to be a mock up turret, so I guess VN23 is just the name of the new 8x8 chassis and not the name of the IFV with the fancy 125mm gun.
Yes, VN-22 is 6x6, while VN-23 is larger and 8x8. I think VA-1 might be referring to the turret, which is maybe designated VA-1?
I think so.
Also the 105mm tank destroyer on VN22 chassis which was previously known as VN22B seems to get a new name: the ST-4
So they’re all using bustle autoloader, similar to the 105mm version of ZBL-191 (probably designated ZLT-17?)
It seems that China is adopting bustle ammo storage for their newer AFVs, including ZTQ-15. Makes me wonder if the next gen MBT will be switching from carousel to bustle. After all, VA-1 turret probably suggests that 125mm single-piece ammunition now exists.
There could be enough space at the turret rear for ammo. But then again, it might house electronic systems like ZTZ99A. The top of the turret is covered by camo netting so we can’t see if there are blowout panels or not, unfortunately.
Since ZTQ-15, China seems to have mastered 105mm autoloader with bustle ammo storage. So every 105mm gun platform nowadays all have this feature. With the appearance of VA-1, we may see the same trend on future 125mm gun platforms.
What is interesting though is that the new MBT seems to have different gun configurations.
These tanks don’t have add-on armor in the front and the sides, unlike the one I posted earlier.
Maybe they are testing a modular designs with different turret and add-on armor configurations
Maybe. Or the two different guns are competing together to see which version the PLAGF will favor.
From this year airshow, I would like to see these ground vehicles in the game: SH-16A, VA-1, ST-4, FK-2000 (improved with 16 missiles)
I think it’s same 105mm gun, but the sheath is not installed. same for the add-on armor. Chinese manufacturer often transports vehicles in stock, and reassemble them when in destination.
hardly, that ongoing war shows that ammo in rear turret cabin is very vulnerable. if you are a light armored vehicle like VA-1, it’s fine, you will die if anything hits you, and wheeled chassis can’t hold the carrousel autoloader, it’s too big.
Anyone knows any info about this vehicle? It seems to be a SHORAD system on VN-1 chassis but strangely nobody is talking about it. For some reason, this year very few people went to take photos at NORINCO live vehicle demonstration area.
Perhaps because China has a better option - the 625E of the highest class (carrying 8 FB10A missiles) or the FK2000.
It’s the latest version of LD-35/SWS-2. 1000 RPM 35mm gun and replaced the TY-90 with FB-10A.
and hang missiles on side could free up turret space for more ammo
It’s not like this, every vehicles deserves attention.
It also has IRST, so maybe even better than 625E cause it can have lower BR.
No, it’s basiclly same ability, a fast firing gun with APDS and AHEAD, and same missile, fire control radar and IRST. 35mm should be better in anti tank, while 30/25mm Gatling gun is better in anti air. 6 or 8 missiles isn’t a big gap.
