- Yes
- No
Hello everyone, welcome to this suggestion for the VN12B! As one of the latest improved variants in the VN12 family, its distinctive feature is the use of a 100 mm + 30 mm weapon system, along with additional missiles mounted on both sides of the turret.
At present, information about this vehicle remains quite limited. If more photos or specifications become available in the future, I will update this suggestion accordingly.
History
At the beginning of the 21st century, through the introduction of technology and the design of its own chassis, China developed tracked vehicles such as the ZBD04 ZBD04A and ZBD86A. These vehicles have since been produced and used to replace the aging APCs and ZBD86s. their emergence marked a new phase in the development of PLAA’s infantry fighting vehicle technology.
On the other hand, technological advances also opened up new opportunities for NORINCO’s foreign trade in weapons. Engineers designed a variety of light armored vehicles with the prefix “VN” for foreign trade. The PLA’s own ZBD04 (VN11) and ZBD86A (VN6) have also received export designations and participated in various exhibitions.
Among the various types of export vehicles, the VN12, which made its debut in 2014, is an IFV that often appears in displays. it continues the traditional infantry fighting vehicle design idea of a front-mounted engine layout, and retains the BMP1-like captain’s position behind the driver in some models. The VN12 is considered a cheaper product than the more expensive heavy IFVs such as the VN20 and VN17.
The VN12 has evolved over more than a decade of improvements into versions equipped with a two-crew and one-crew auto-cannon turrets. Engineers have also experimented with various armor configurations for its chassis.
Previous VN12s in Zhuhai
In the past, the VN12 and its variants have appeared at multiple editions of the Zhuhai Airshow. It was not until 2024, when the VN12A assault gun equipped with a 105 mm turret was showcased in the ground exhibition, that a new variant based on the VN22 chassis was revealed—demonstrating the platform’s potential to be developed into a light tank.
VN12A
Later, in July 2025, during a public exhibition event held by China North Industries Group, a new improved VN22-based variant appeared alongside the VN12A. This version returned to the role of an infantry fighting vehicle and was equipped with a turret similar to that of the VN20—featuring a 100 mm gun, a 30 mm autocannon, a 12.7 mm remote weapon station, and anti-tank missiles mounted on both sides of the turret. This gives it significantly greater firepower than all previous variants.
Its appearance demonstrates that, in the export market, China’s defense industry is still exploring the development potential of the 100 mm + 30 mm weapon system. The addition of externally mounted ATGMs also indicates that designers recognize the limitations of gun-launched missiles in terms of caliber, and are seeking more effective anti-armor solutions.
VN12B, VN20, and ZBD04A
In the past, the VN12 was often regarded as a more affordable alternative to export IFVs such as the VN17. The emergence of the VN12A and VN12B represents a different development path for the family—one that places greater emphasis on firepower. It is expected that more information about these vehicles will be revealed at the 2026 Zhuhai Airshow.
VN12, VN12A, and VN12B
In War Thunder
Although China already has the ZBD04, vehicles equipped with third-generation ATGMs are still missing from the tech tree in the game. In addition to well-known options like the VN22 and VN17, I believe the VN12B would also be an excellent choice.
Its unprecedented and unique weapon configuration would allow players to experiment with a variety of interesting playstyles, while its newer chassis could provide solid protection and mobility.
Spefications
Crew: 3+7
Mass: 24 t
Length: 7.5 m
Width: 3.3 m
Height: 2.95 m
Main armament: 100mm+30mm cannon, 4x152mm HJ12 ATGM
Secondary armament: 1x 7.62mm machine gun 1x 12.7mm weapon station
Engine: 600 hp 440kw
Maximum speed: 70 km/h
Accessories:
81mm Smoke Grenade Launchers
Laser Rangefinder
Two-way Stabilizer