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TL;DR: A large APC/MRAP hybrid fitted with a the classic GCTWM turret.
Note: This suggestion is for the Chinese display model fitted with a gun-cage for the 30mm. Exported examples do not feature this gun-cage.
History:
With the collapse of the USSR in the early 1990s, China’s focus could finally switch from heavily guarding its northern border to other matters. One of these matters was the development of lighter, faster, and easier to maintain military vehicles. This need would lead to NORINCO developing a new multi-role wheeled platform, which would be designated as WZ551. In its basic form, this new vehicle would be a an APC, however, as it was designed to be multi-role, ways to expand its capabilities were being developed alongside the vehicle itself. A large number of the resulting designs found significant success within the PLA. From mortar carrier to tank destroyer, the WZ551 was up to the task. This adaptability combined with the successful widespread PLA adoption made the platform very appealing to the export market. Some time in the early 2000s, NORINCO debuted the VN2, the official export model of the WZ551, which soon became the basis of many modifications as well. One of the more radial of these modifications was the VN2C, although calling it a “modification” would be putting it lightly. The VN2C, unveiled in 2016, overhauled the entire structure of the VN2 to the point of becoming so visually distinct one could not be confused for the other. The reason for this overhaul was to turn the VN2 platform into an incredibly robust MRAP APC. The entire underside of the vehicle would be greatly reinforced, becoming capable of withstanding TNT blasts of up to 8kg. Armor would also be improved from the base VN2. These upgrades, alongside many internal improvements, would increase the platform’s weight by 7kg, however, despite this, the VN2C retained amphibious capabilities and its 402hp engine still allowed it to reach a top speed of 100kph. Like the standard VN2, the VN2C was capable of accepting a multitude of different weapon modules, one of these being the a YA9004, which could be fitted with a either a 14.5mm or 12.7mm HMG. The VN2C has been seen with both options, however, the version fitted with a 14.5mm CS/LM2 and 7.62mm MG has seemingly been photographed more. In addition to the YA9004, the tried-and-true GCTWM is also available as an option and has been observed as a display in 2018, two years after the initial debut of the VN2C. The GCTWM’s primary armament is the 30mm ZPZ02 autocannon with provisions for a HJ-73 launch rail, which would be present on the VN2C (GCTWM) display model, although an actual ATGM would not be seen mounted. Modern iterations of the GCTWM come with the option of integrating a gun-cage for the ZPZ02 into the turret, improving accuracy, which the display model prominently featured. Some time in the 2020s, the VN2C would receive an order from Malian Armed Forces. The exact number ordered is not known, however, in 2025, they would receive six VN2Cs fitted with the GCTWM turret, however, it appears the MAF decided against gun-cages. All images of Malian VN2Cs lack clarity and are without mounted ATGMs, however, an ATGM launch rail would observed on at least one of the delivered examples.
Place In War Thunder:
With the continued addition of fast autocannon carriers to the mid/high tiers of several in-game nations, it is only reasonable that every other nation should follow suit. China has a lot of options when it comes to this type of vehicle, which the VN2C (GCTWM) being one of the more obscure examples. Due to this obscurity, it would not be surprising to see this vehicle added as an event/premium counterpart to another more notable autocannon carrier in the tree. Playstyle would be similar to vehicles like the Type 87 RCV and XM800T, however, you’d have to play with an extra level of caution as the VN2C (GCTWM) is larger than both. Despite this downside, the vehicle is still extremely maneuverable and would allow you to take powerful early-game positions before opening up on the sides of early MBTs and/or slapping a few with the HJ-73.
Specifications:
Armament: 30mm ZPZ02 autocannon and 1x 7.62mm MG (HJ-73 ATGMs are possible, however, have not been observed on this specific vehicle.)
Dimensions: 7.00m, 2.90m, 3.20m (L,W,H)
Weight: 19000~kg
Armor: STANAG 4569 Level 3a/3b
Crew: 3-4
Ammunition: Same as QN506 in-game
Speed: 100~kph
Horsepower: 402hp
Pictures:
Side View (Note the HJ-73 launch rail atop the turret):
Six Malian VN2Cs On Display:
Closer View (Note the lack of gun-cages):
Malian VN2Cs as they are being delivered. If you squint, you can see what appears to be an ATGM launch rail on the rear vehicle:
Video:
https://video.sina.cn/mil/2018-11-05/detail-ihnknmqx0876402.d.html
Sources:
https://zhuanlan.zhihu.com/p/491653998
https://www.icswb.com/h/163/20161103/445324.html
https://min.news/en/military/5a7196f95727488bb5d7df0eccbce301.html
https://defence-blog.com/malian-army-receives-newest-chinese-mine-resistant-vehicles
Malian military receives new vehicles
Army of Mali has received tactical and armored vehicles to equip 16 co