The heaviest tanks in the world are imposing war machines designed to dominate the battlefield. One notable example is the German tank known as the Panzer VIII Maus, which held the title of the heaviest tank ever built. Weighing in at a staggering 188 tons, the Maus featured thick armor plating and a powerful 128mm gun. Another heavyweight contender is the British Mark V tank, which weighed approximately 100 tons.
This tank was utilized during World War I and possessed formidable firepower with its multiple machine guns and cannons. The Soviet Union also contributed to the heavyweight category with Object 279, a prototype tank weighing around 60 tons that boasted unique features like four tracks for enhanced mobility. These heaviest tanks are testaments to armored warfare’s engineering prowess and technological advancements.
1. Panzerkampfwagen VIII Maus (Germany)
| Name | Panzerkampfwagen VIII Maus |
| Place of origin | Nazi Germany |
| Designed | 1941 |
| Mass | 188 t (207 short tons; 185 long tons) |
The Panzerkampfwagen VIII Maus, developed by Germany during World War II, was an enormous and heavily armored super-heavy tank. Weighing around 188 tons, it was the heaviest tank ever built. The Maus featured a powerful 128mm main gun and secondary armaments, including a 75mm gun and multiple machine guns, making it a formidable weapon on the battlefield.
Its armor was exceptionally thick, ranging from 200mm to 240mm, providing exceptional protection against enemy fire. However, due to its immense weight and size, the Maus was plagued by mobility issues and was difficult to transport. Only two prototypes were completed, and the tank never saw active combat, as the war ended before it could be fully deployed. Nevertheless, the Panzerkampfwagen VIII Maus remains an iconic symbol of German engineering and military ambition.
2. Panzerkampfwagen E-100 (Germany)
| Name | Panzerkampfwagen E-100 |
| Place of origin | Nazi Germany |
| Designed | 1943 |
| Mass | 123,000 kg 123 ton (combat loaded) |
The Panzerkampfwagen E-100 was a super-heavy tank prototype developed by Germany during World War II. Its roughly 140 metric tons weight made it the largest and most potent tank ever constructed. The E-100 featured thick, sloped armor, providing exceptional protection on the battlefield. Its main armament was a 15 cm KwK 44 L/38 gun, capable of firing high-explosive and armor-piercing rounds.
Additionally, the tank was equipped with secondary armaments, including machine guns for anti-infantry defense. Despite its impressive specifications, the E-100 never entered production due to the German surrender in 1945. Today, only a partially completed chassis of the E-100 exists as a testament to the ambitious engineering efforts of the Third Reich.
3. Panzer VIII Königstiger (Germany)
| Name | Tiger II |
| Place of origin | Nazi Germany |
| Designed | 1943 |
| Mass | 68.5 tonnes (67.4 long tons; 75.5 short tons) early turret69.8 tonnes (68.7 long tons; 76.9 short tons) production turret |
The Panzer VIII Königstiger, also known as the King Tiger, was a formidable heavy tank deployed by Germany during World War II. Introduced in 1944, it was renowned for its exceptional firepower, heavy armor, and imposing presence on the battlefield. Weighing over 68 tons, the Königstiger featured a powerful 88mm KwK 43 L/71 gun, capable of penetrating even the thickest enemy armor.
Its armor protection was unrivaled, with up to 180mm of frontal armor, making it highly resistant to enemy attacks. However, the tank’s sheer size and weight made it challenging to maneuver in certain terrains, and its production numbers needed to be improved. Nonetheless, the Panzer VIII Königstiger remains an iconic symbol of German engineering and military might during World War II.
4. Merkava Mk 4 (Israel)
| Name | Merkava |
| Place of origin | Israel |
| Designed | 1970 |
| Mass | 65 tonnes (143,000 pounds) |
The Merkava Mk 4 is an advanced main battle tank developed and manufactured by Israel. It is renowned for its exceptional firepower, mobility, and high crew protection level. With a weight of around 65 tons, the Merkava Mk 4 is powered by a powerful 1,500-horsepower engine, enabling it to achieve impressive speeds on various terrains. The 120mm smoothbore gun that makes up its primary armament can fire various projectiles, including high-explosive anti-tank rounds.
The tank also has advanced fire control systems for accurate and precise targeting. Additionally, the Merkava Mk 4 incorporates innovative armor design and layout, providing enhanced protection for the crew, including a rear-mounted engine compartment to improve survivability. Overall, the Merkava Mk 4 is a formidable battlefield force, embodying Israel’s commitment to military excellence.
5. Challenger 2 (United Kingdom)
| Name | FV4034 Challenger 2 |
| Place of origin | United Kingdom |
| Designed | 1986–1993 |
| Mass | 64 t (63 long tons; 71 short tons) |
The Challenger 2 is a renowned main battle tank that is the backbone of the United Kingdom’s armored forces. It is an impressive vehicle, weighing around 62 metric tons and featuring a powerful 120mm smoothbore gun that ensures accurate and lethal firepower, capable of engaging targets at long distances.
The tank’s sophisticated digital systems, including advanced thermal imaging and laser rangefinders, enhance its operational effectiveness and situational awareness. In addition, the Challenger 2 boasts impressive mobility, thanks to its robust engine and suspension, enabling it to traverse challenging terrains with ease. With its proven combat record and continuous upgrades, the Challenger 2 symbolizes the United Kingdom’s armored prowess.
6. M1 Abrams (United States)
| Name | M1 Abrams |
| Place of origin | United States |
| Designed | 1972–1975 |
| Mass | M1: 60 short tons (54 t) M1A1: 63 short tons (57 t)M1A1 SA: 67.6 short tons (61.3 t)M1A2 SEP v2: 71.2 short tons (64.6 t)M1A2 SEP v3: 73.6 short tons (66.8 t) |
The M1 Abrams is a powerful main battle tank that is the backbone of the United States Army’s armored forces. Named after General Creighton Abrams, it was first introduced in 1980 and has since become one of the world’s most iconic and formidable tanks. With a weight of around 60 tons, the M1 Abrams boasts impressive firepower and advanced technology.
Its 120mm smoothbore gun, combined with highly accurate targeting systems and advanced ammunition, allows it to engage and destroy enemy armored vehicles easily. The tank is also equipped with heavy composite armor, reactive armor, and an active protection system, providing exceptional protection against various threats on the battlefield. Its powerful gas turbine engine enables the M1 Abrams to reach up to 42 miles per hour, making it a highly mobile and agile tank. The M1 Abrams has proven itself in numerous conflicts throughout its service and remains a symbol of American military strength and technological superiority.
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7. Leopard 2A7+ (Germany)
| Name | Leopard 2 |
| Place of origin | West Germany |
| Designed | 1970s |
| Mass | 2A6: 62.3 tonnes (68.7 short tons)2A7V: 66.5 tonnes (73.3 short tons) |
The Leopard 2A7+ is a formidable main battle tank developed and manufactured by Germany. It represents the pinnacle of the Leopard 2 series and showcases advanced technological enhancements. With a powerful Rheinmetall 120mm smoothbore gun as its main armament, the Leopard 2A7+ can effectively engage armored targets at long ranges. Its state-of-the-art modular armor system protects against various threats, including anti-tank missiles and kinetic energy projectiles.
The tank has advanced fire control systems, thermal imagers, and laser rangefinders, ensuring superior accuracy and target acquisition capabilities. Additionally, the Leopard 2A7+ features improved mobility and maneuverability thanks to its upgraded engine and suspension system, enabling it to easily traverse challenging terrains. Overall, the Leopard 2A7+ is a cutting-edge tank that combines firepower, protection, and agility, making it a force to be reckoned with on the modern battlefield.
8. Chieftain (United Kingdom)
| Name | Chieftain |
| Place of origin | United Kingdom |
| Designed | 1960s–1990s |
| Mass | 55 long tons (62 short tons; 56 t) |
The Chieftain, developed and manufactured in the United Kingdom, was a prominent main battle tank used by the British Army during the late 20th century. Introduced in the 1960s, it served as the backbone of the British armored forces for several decades. With a robust design and impressive firepower, the Chieftain featured a powerful 120mm rifled gun capable of engaging enemy tanks and fortified positions.
Its advanced composite armor provided excellent protection, making it a formidable adversary on the battlefield. The Chieftain also boasted impressive mobility, thanks to its 750 horsepower engine, allowing it to easily traverse varied terrain. Despite being phased out in favor of more modern tanks, the Chieftain’s legacy endures as an iconic symbol of British armor technology and military prowess.
The Chieftain was the most powerful Main Battle Tank of the British Army, used during the Cold war period. Its impressive firepower and armor thickness made it a formidable opponent on the battlefield. If you are interested in learning about the famous people who share the same astrological sign as the Chieftain’s production date, check out our article on Taurus Celebrities.
9. Object 279 (Soviet Union)
| Name | Obiekt 279 |
| Place of origin | Soviet Union |
| Designed | 1959 |
| Mass | 60 metric tons |
During the Cold War, the Soviet Union created the exceptional and powerful heavy tank Object 279. Its distinctive feature was its four-track chassis, which provided exceptional off-road capabilities and ensured improved weight distribution. Weighing a massive 60 tons, the tank was heavily armored, boasting a combination of sloped and composite armor that made it nearly impervious to most modern anti-tank weapons.
Equipped with a powerful 130mm smoothbore gun, the Object 279 had the potential to engage and destroy enemy tanks from considerable distances. However, the tank’s complex design and the high cost of production limited its deployment to just a single prototype. Today, Object 279 serves as a testament to the innovative engineering prowess of the Soviet Union during the arms race era.
10. Object 490A Taran (Russia)
| Name | Obiekt 490A |
| Place of origin | Russia |
| Designed | 1981–1982 |
| Mass | 48 metric tons |
The Object 490A Taran is a formidable armored vehicle hailing from Russia. It’s imposing presence, and advanced capabilities stand as a testament to Russian engineering prowess. The Taran is equipped with heavy armor, providing exceptional protection to its crew and vital components against various threats on the battlefield. Its powerful engine enables impressive mobility, traversing challenging terrains easily.
The main armament of the Taran includes a 125mm smoothbore gun, ensuring high accuracy and firepower. Complementing this is a range of secondary weapons, including machine guns and anti-aircraft missiles, making the Taran a versatile combat platform. With its cutting-edge technology and robust design, the Object 490A Taran symbolizes Russia’s commitment to maintaining a formidable armored force.
11. Type 99A2 (China)
| Name | Type 99A2 |
| Place of origin | China |
| Designed | 2003 |
| Mass | 58 metric tons |
The Type 99A2 is an advanced main battle tank developed and deployed by China. It represents a significant improvement over the Type 99A1’s predecessor. The tank features a powerful 125mm smoothbore gun capable of firing various ammunition types, including APFSDS and HEAT rounds. Its advanced fire control system and stabilized gun platform ensure high accuracy and effective target engagement even on the move.
The Type 99A2 is also equipped with composite and modular armor, providing excellent protection against various threats, including anti-tank missiles and kinetic energy penetrators. With its improved engine and suspension system, the tank demonstrates exceptional mobility and agility on different terrains, allowing it to maneuver and position itself in combat situations effectively. Overall, the Type 99A2 is a formidable armored vehicle, bolstering China’s ground forces with its advanced firepower, protection, and mobility capabilities.
12. AMX-56 Leclerc (France)
| Name | Leclerc |
| Place of origin | France |
| Designed | 1983–1989 |
| Mass | Series 1: 54.5 tonnesSeries 2: 56.3 tonnesSeries XXI: 57.4 tonnes |
The AMX-56 Leclerc is a formidable main battle tank (MBT) developed and manufactured by France. Named after General Philippe Leclerc, the tank exemplifies cutting-edge technology and impressive combat capabilities. Its advanced armor protects exceptionally against various threats, including armor-piercing rounds and explosive devices. Equipped with a powerful 120mm smoothbore gun, the Leclerc delivers devastating firepower, capable of engaging both enemy tanks and fortified positions with precision and accuracy.
Its high mobility is another standout feature, allowing for swift maneuverability across various terrains. Furthermore, the Leclerc incorporates advanced electronic systems and fire control technology, ensuring enhanced situational awareness and effective command and control capabilities for its crew. Overall, the AMX-56 Leclerc represents the epitome of French engineering and military prowess on the modern battlefield.
13. K2 Black Panther (South Korea)
| Name | K2 Black Panther |
| Place of origin | South Korea |
| Designed | 1995–2008 |
| Mass | 55 t (54 long tons; 61 short tons) |
The K2 Black Panther is a cutting-edge main battle tank developed by South Korea. Known for its advanced technology and formidable firepower, the Black Panther showcases South Korea’s expertise in armored vehicle design. Equipped with a powerful 120mm smoothbore gun, it can engage targets with precision and accuracy.
The tank’s composite armor protects against various threats, including anti-tank missiles and projectiles. It has a high level of mobility and can easily navigate difficult terrain because of its potent engine and sophisticated suspension system. With its state-of-the-art features and capabilities, the K2 Black Panther has solidified its position as one of the most advanced and effective tanks in the world today.
14. K1A1 (South Korea)
| Name | K1A1 |
| Place of origin | South Korea |
| Designed | K1: 1978–1984K1A1: 1991–1996 |
| Mass | K1: 51.1 metric tonsK1A1: 53.2 metric tonsK1A2: 54.5 metric tons |
The K1A1, developed by South Korea, is a formidable battle tank that embodies advanced military technology. It boasts a powerful 120mm smoothbore gun capable of firing various types of ammunition, ensuring superior firepower on the battlefield.
The tank’s composite armor protects against enemy attacks, enhancing crew survivability. Equipped with advanced fire control systems and thermal imaging technology, the K1A1 possesses remarkable accuracy and target acquisition capabilities, enabling precise strikes even in challenging environments. Its robust engine delivers impressive mobility, allowing swift maneuvers across different terrains. With its exceptional combination of firepower, protection, and agility, the K1A1 plays a crucial role in the defense capabilities of South Korea, serving as a symbol of the nation’s commitment to military excellence.
15. C1 Ariete (Italy)
| Name | Ariete |
| Place of origin | Italy |
| Designed | 1995–2002 |
| Mass | 54 t (53 long tons; 60 short tons |
The C1 Ariete is a formidable main battle tank developed and manufactured in Italy. It represents the pinnacle of Italian armored technology and is renowned for its exceptional performance on the battlefield. Equipped with a powerful 120mm smoothbore gun, the C1 Ariete boasts superior firepower, capable of engaging and neutralizing various threats with precision. Its advanced composite armor protects against conventional and modern anti-tank weapons, enhancing crew survivability.
The tank’s state-of-the-art fire control system ensures accurate targeting and effective engagement of enemy forces. With a 70 km/h top speed, the C1 Ariete demonstrates impressive mobility, swiftly maneuvering across different terrains and maintaining battlefield superiority. Overall, the C1 Ariete is a testament to Italy’s expertise in armored warfare and a formidable asset in the country’s defense arsenal.
16. Type 99 (China)
| Name | Type 99 |
| Place of origin | China |
| Designed | 2001 (Type 99)2011–present (Type 99A) |
| Mass | 51 tonnes (Type 98)55 tonnes (Type 99A) |
The Type 99 is a main battle tank developed and utilized by China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA). Introduced in the late 1990s, it represents China’s most advanced indigenous tank design. The Type 99 incorporates numerous modern features, such as composite armor, explosive reactive armor, and advanced fire control systems. It is powered by a 1,500-horsepower engine, providing exceptional mobility and maneuverability on the battlefield.
Equipped with a 125mm smoothbore gun and an autoloader, it possesses formidable firepower capable of engaging various targets effectively. Additionally, the Type 99 features advanced technology like thermal imaging and laser rangefinders, enhancing its accuracy and situational awareness. With its advanced capabilities, Type 99 symbolizes China’s growing military strength and technological advancement in armored warfare.
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17. M60 Patton (United States)
| Name | M60 |
| Place of origin | United States |
| Designed | 1957 |
| Mass | M60: 50.7 short tons (46.0 t; 45.3 long tons)M60A1: 52.6 short tons (47.7 t; 47.0 long tons)M60A2: 52.0 short tons (47.2 t; 46.4 long tons)M60A3: 54.6 short tons (49.5 t; 48.8 long tons) |
American tank manufacturer M60 Patton debuted in the 1960s and quickly established itself as a key component of the nation’s armored forces. Renowned World War II tank commander General George S. Patton named it. The M60 had a robust 105mm main gun that could fire various ammunition, including anti-tank shells and high-explosive rounds.
Its thick armor offered substantial protection against enemy fire, while its robust engine provided a speed of around 30 miles per hour. The tank’s operational range exceeded 300 miles, allowing for extended missions. Despite its eventual replacement by more advanced tanks, the M60 Patton played a crucial role during the Cold War and in conflicts such as the Gulf War, showcasing its durability and firepower.
18. VT-4 (China)
| Name | VT-4 |
| Place of origin | China |
| Designed | 2017-present |
| Mass | 52 tonnes |
The VT-4, developed by China, is a formidable main battle tank that showcases advanced military technology. This tank, built to perform well in various combat situations, is equipped with a powerful 125mm smoothbore gun that can fire various rounds, including APFSDS and HEAT.
Its advanced fire control system and stabilizers enhance accuracy and ensure precise targeting on the move. The VT-4 offers exceptional protection against anti-tank weaponry with a hybrid and modular armor system. Its robust engine provides excellent mobility, allowing the tank to traverse difficult terrains easily. Additionally, the VT-4 incorporates modern digital systems, including advanced sensors and communication equipment, enhancing battlefield situational awareness and command capabilities.
The VT-4, also known as the MBT-3000, is a Chinese third-generation main battle tank that has earned the distinction of being one of the world’s most advanced battle tanks. With its enhanced protection and advanced firepower capabilities, this tank represents the next generation of Chinese armored warfare. To know more about China’s military advancements, check out the list of richest states in the US.
19. Centurion (United Kingdom)
| Name | Centurion |
| Place of origin | United Kingdom |
| Designed | 1946 |
| Mass | 50 long tons (51 t) |
The Centurion tank, developed by the United Kingdom, was a formidable armored vehicle that played a significant role in post-World War II conflicts. Introduced in 1945, it quickly gained recognition for its exceptional performance and versatility on the battlefield. The Centurion boasted a powerful 105mm gun, providing superior firepower against enemy tanks and fortified positions.
Its heavily armored hull and turret provided excellent protection for the crew, making it a durable adversary on the battlefield. Furthermore, the Centurion showcased great mobility thanks to its powerful engine, allowing it to navigate varied terrains easily. This iconic British tank served extensively in numerous conflicts worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the history of armored warfare.
20. T-84 Oplot (Ukraine)
| Name | A T-84U |
| Place of origin | Ukraine |
| Designed | 1975–1994 |
| Mass | 46 tonnes |
The T-84 Oplot is a Ukrainian main battle tank representing a significant advancement in armored warfare technology. Developed in the late 1990s, the T-84 Oplot combines advanced firepower, mobility, and protection. It features a powerful 125mm smoothbore gun capable of firing various ammunition types, including APFSDS and HEAT rounds. The tank’s composite armor provides exceptional protection against conventional and chemical threats.
The T-84 Oplot has an impressive range of 500 kilometers and a top speed of 70 km/h on roads. It also incorporates advanced fire control systems and modernized electronics, enhancing its operational effectiveness on the battlefield. The T-84 Oplot has been exported to several countries, including Thailand and Pakistan, further solidifying Ukraine’s position in the global arms market.
21. T-90MS (Russia)
| Name | T-90 |
| Place of origin | Russia |
| Designed | 1992 |
| Mass | 46 tonnes (45 long tons; 51 short tons) (T-90)46.5 tonnes (45.8 long tons; 51.3 short tons) (T-90A)48 tonnes (47 long tons; 53 short tons) (T-90SM) |
The T-90MS is a formidable main battle tank developed by Russia. It represents a modernized variant of the T-90 tank, incorporating advanced features and technologies. Equipped with a powerful 125mm smoothbore gun, the T-90MS has exceptional firepower and can engage targets with precision and accuracy. Its composite and explosive reactive armor provides excellent protection against various threats, enhancing the tank’s survivability on the battlefield.
The tank is powered by a robust engine, achieving high speeds and maneuverability. Additionally, the T-90MS features advanced electronics and a state-of-the-art fire control system, ensuring effective target acquisition and engagement capabilities. Overall, the T-90MS is a formidable asset in the Russian armored forces, showcasing its capability to dominate the modern battlefield.
22. Type 10 (Japan)
| Name | JGSDF Type 10 |
| Place of origin | Japan |
| Designed | 2012 |
| Mass | 40 tonnes (basic loadout),44 tonnes (standard loadout),48 tonnes (full loadout) |
The Type 10 is a modern main battle tank developed by Japan. It represents the cutting-edge technology and advanced design principles the Japanese military employs. With a weight of around 44 tons, it is relatively lightweight compared to its counterparts, allowing for enhanced maneuverability and speed on the battlefield. The Type 10 has a 120mm smoothbore gun that can fire APFSDS and HEAT rounds, among other types of ammunition.
Its advanced fire control system and targeting capabilities ensure accurate and efficient engagement of enemy targets. Additionally, the tank features modular armor, providing adaptable protection based on mission requirements, and it incorporates advanced stealth technologies to reduce its radar and infrared signatures, increasing its survivability in combat scenarios.
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23. T-14 Armata (Russia)
| Name | T-14 Armata |
| Place of origin | Russia |
| Designed | 2014 |
| Mass | 55 tonnes |
The T-14 Armata is a formidable Russian main battle tank representing a significant leap forward in armored warfare technology. Introduced in 2015, this cutting-edge tank boasts advanced features and superior capabilities. Its design incorporates innovative concepts, such as an unmanned turret operated remotely inside the tank, providing enhanced crew safety.
The Armata has a potent 125mm smoothbore gun that can fire a variety of ammunition, including guided missiles, providing the battlefield with more firepower. Its composite armor protects against modern threats, including anti-tank missiles and explosive devices. With its advanced digital systems and sophisticated sensors, the T-14 Armata offers increased situational awareness, allowing for effective command and control during combat operations.
24. T-80U (Soviet Union/Russia)
| Name | T-80 |
| Place of origin | Soviet Union |
| Designed | 1967–1975 |
| Mass | 42.5 tonnes T-80B, 46 tonnes T-80U |
The T-80U, developed by the Soviet Union and later adopted by Russia, was a formidable main battle tank renowned for its advanced technology and impressive performance. Introduced in the late 1970s, the T-80U boasted a powerful gas turbine engine, providing exceptional speed and mobility on the battlefield. Its composite armor offered enhanced protection against both kinetic and chemical threats, ensuring the safety of its crew.
Equipped with a 125mm smoothbore gun and an autoloader, the T-80U possessed great firepower and the ability to fire various types of ammunition, including high-explosive anti-tank rounds. Its advanced fire control system, incorporating laser rangefinders and thermal imaging sights, ensured superior accuracy and target acquisition capabilities. The T-80U was a key asset in the armored forces of the Soviet Union and Russia, showcasing its technological prowess and formidable combat capabilities.
25. T-72B3 (Russia)
| Name | T-72B3 |
| Place of origin | Russia |
| Designed | 2010 |
| Mass |
The T-72B3 is a formidable main battle tank developed and manufactured by Russia. It is a modernized variant of the T-72, incorporating advanced technologies to enhance its combat capabilities. The tank features composite and modular armor, improving protection against various threats. Equipped with a powerful 125mm smoothbore gun, the T-72B3 can accurately engage both armored and soft targets.
It also possesses a sophisticated fire control system, thermal imaging sights, and advanced navigation equipment, allowing for effective operation in various terrains and weather conditions. The T-72B3 continues to be a dependable and effective asset in the Russian armored forces thanks to its tough design and cutting-edge features.
26. M48 Patton (United States)
| Name | M48 Patton |
| Place of origin | United States |
| Designed | 1950 |
| Mass | M4849.6 short tons (44.3 long tons; 45.0 t) |
The M48 Patton, a renowned American main battle tank, played a significant role in numerous conflicts during the 20th century. Introduced in the 1950s as an upgrade to its predecessor, the M47, the M48 showcased improved firepower, mobility, and protection.
Its primary armament consisted of a 105mm rifled gun, allowing it to engage enemy armored vehicles effectively. The M48 provided impressive battlefield maneuverability with a top speed of 48 kilometers per hour (30 mph) and a range of about 480 kilometers (300 miles). Its thick armor provided formidable protection against most conventional threats, ensuring the safety of its crew. The M48 Patton’s service spanned several conflicts, including the Vietnam War and the Arab-Israeli conflicts, earning a reputation as a reliable and capable tank.
27. PT-91 Twardy (Poland)
| Name | PT-91 Twardy |
| Place of origin | Poland |
| Designed | 1995 |
| Mass | 45.9 tonnes |
Poland is the country that developed and produced the PT-91 Twardy main battle tank. It is a variant of the Soviet T-72 tank, but with significant improvements and modifications to meet the specific requirements of the Polish Armed Forces. Equipped with a powerful 125mm smoothbore gun, the PT-91 Twardy boasts excellent firepower and accuracy. Its composite armor provides enhanced protection against various threats, including anti-tank missiles and armor-piercing rounds.
The tank is powered by a 1,000-horsepower engine, giving it exceptional mobility and maneuverability on different terrains. With advanced fire control systems and night vision capabilities, the PT-91 Twardy ensures effective engagement in day and night operations, making it a formidable asset in the Polish military arsenal.
28. Type 96B (China)
| Name | Type 96B |
| Place of origin | China |
| Designed | 1997 |
| Mass | Type 96 – 41 tonnesType 96A – 42.8 tonnesType 96B – 43 tonnes |
The Type 96B is a main battle tank (MBT) developed and produced by China. It is an upgraded variant of the Type 96 MBT, designed to enhance its combat capabilities and performance on the modern battlefield. The tank features improved armor protection, including composite and modular add-on armor, providing increased resistance against various threats. Equipped with a more powerful engine, the Type 96B demonstrates improved mobility, agility, and speed, allowing for greater maneuverability on the battlefield.
It has a 125mm smoothbore gun can fire various rounds, including APFSDS and HEAT, ensuring its effectiveness against fortifications and armored vehicles. Additionally, the tank incorporates advanced fire control systems and sensors, enhancing its accuracy and situational awareness, while its modular design enables easy integration of future upgrades and modifications. Overall, the Type 96B is a formidable asset to the Chinese armed forces, bolstering their armored capabilities.
29. T-62 (Soviet Union)
| Name | T-62 |
| Place of origin | Soviet Union |
| Designed | 1961 |
| Mass | 37 t (41 short tons; 36 long tons) |
The T-62 was a Soviet Union main battle tank introduced in the early 1960s. It significantly improved over the previous model, the T-55, incorporating several advancements in armor protection and firepower. The tank featured composite armor, which combined steel and non-metallic materials, enhancing its resilience against enemy projectiles. Its 115mm smoothbore gun provided improved accuracy and penetration capabilities compared to the previous 100mm gun.
The T-62 also introduced an automatic loading system, reducing the crew size to three and enhancing the tank’s rate of fire. Despite its strengths, the T-62 faced some limitations, such as its relatively high profile and the lack of advanced fire control systems. Nonetheless, it played a prominent role in various conflicts worldwide and symbolized Soviet military prowess during the Cold War era.
30. Zulfiqar (Iran)
| Name | Zulfiqar |
| Place of origin | Iran |
| Designed | 1993 – Zulfiqar-1 2012 – Zulfiqar-3 |
| Mass | 52 tonnes |
Zulfiqar is a significant symbol in Iran, representing strength, resilience, and the spirit of resistance. It is a legendary double-edged sword believed to have been wielded by Ali ibn Abi Talib, the cousin, and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad. The Zulfiqar has become a powerful emblem of Shiite Islam and is historically and culturally important in Iran.
It is often depicted on flags, religious banners, and national emblems, symbolizing Iran’s rich heritage and its commitment to defending its principles. The Zulfiqar’s iconic shape, with its distinctive split blade, is instantly recognizable and evokes a sense of pride and unity among Iranians. This revered symbol serves as a reminder of Iran’s historical struggles and its people’s determination to protect their values and independence.
31. Type 80/88 (North Korea)
| Name | Type 80 |
| Place of origin | People’s Republic of China |
| Designed | 1978 (Type 80)1981–1987 (Type 88) |
| Mass | 38 tonne (Type 80/88)39.5 tonne (Type 85)44 tonne (Type 85-III) |
Type 80/88 is a series of tanks developed by North Korea, designed to provide formidable firepower and mobility on the battlefield. These tanks have been a significant part of the North Korean military’s armored forces. The Type 80/88 tanks are equipped with a 125mm smoothbore gun, capable of firing various types of ammunition, including APFSDS and HEAT rounds. With its advanced targeting system and stabilized gun, the Type 80/88 tanks demonstrate enhanced accuracy and precision in combat situations. The tanks also feature composite and explosive reactive armor, providing increased protection against anti-tank weapons.
Furthermore, their powerful engines enable swift maneuverability across different terrains, making them a versatile asset for North Korea’s ground forces. The Type 80/88 tanks exemplify North Korea’s commitment to developing indigenous military technology to bolster their defensive capabilities.
32. Type 74 (Japan)
| Name | Type 74 |
| Place of origin | Japan |
| Designed | 1962 |
| Mass | 38 tonnes (42 short tons; 37 long tons) |
The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) developed and employed the Type 74 main battle tank. Introduced in 1975, it was the backbone of Japan’s armored forces for several decades. The tank featured a 105mm rifled gun with four crew members, including a commander, gunner, loader, and driver.
With a top speed of 53 kilometers per hour, Type 74 showcased respectable mobility. It also boasted advanced features such as thermal sights and modular composite armor for enhanced protection. Although it was eventually replaced by more modern tanks in the JGSDF, Type 74 played a significant role in Japan’s defense capabilities during its active service.
33. T-55 (Soviet Union)
| Name | T-55 |
| Place of origin | Soviet Union |
| Designed | 1947–1958 |
| Mass | 36 metric tons (35.4 long tons; 39.7 short tons) |
The T-55, developed in the Soviet Union, is an iconic main battle tank that played a significant role during the Cold War era. Introduced in the late 1950s, it became one of history’s most widely produced tanks. The T-55 featured a powerful 100mm smoothbore gun capable of engaging enemy armored vehicles with deadly precision. Its robust design and thick armor provided good protection for the crew against various threats.
A V-55 12-cylinder diesel engine ensured the tank’s mobility, enabling it to achieve speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour on roads. The T-55 saw action in numerous conflicts worldwide and remained in service with many countries long after its initial production, showcasing its reliability and adaptability.
34. Type 69 (China)
| Name | Type 69 |
| Place of origin | China |
| Designed | 1963–1974 |
| Mass | 36.7 tonnes |
The Type 69 is a main battle tank developed and produced by China. It is a variant of the Soviet T-54/T-55 tank series, which China acquired and modified to suit its requirements. Type 69 features a 100mm smoothbore gun as its primary armament, capable of firing various ammunition types, including armor-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot (APFSDS) rounds and high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) rounds. It also possesses a 12.7mm anti-aircraft machine gun and a 7.62mm coaxial machine gun.
The tank’s armor comprises steel plates, protecting small arms from fire and shell fragments. The Type 69 has served in various conflicts worldwide and has undergone several upgrades to enhance its performance and capabilities. Although it is considered an older design by modern standards, it remains a reliable and cost-effective option for many armies.
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35. AMX-30 (France)
| Name | AMX-30 |
| Place of origin | France |
| Designed | 1959 |
| Mass | 36 tonnes (40 short tons; 35 long tons) |
The AMX-30, developed by France, is a renowned main battle tank that has served as the backbone of the French Army for several decades. Introduced in the 1960s, it showcases a distinctive and sleek design. The tank’s firepower is notable, featuring a 105mm smoothbore gun capable of launching various types of ammunition, including APFSDS rounds and HEAT projectiles.
Its formidable mobility is attributed to a 720-horsepower engine, allowing for a speed of approximately 65 kilometers per hour on roads. The AMX-30’s armor offers decent protection against conventional threats, with composite materials and spaced laminate construction providing effective shielding. Over the years, this versatile tank has undergone several upgrades to enhance its capabilities. It is a reliable asset in French armored forces and a respected name in global tank warfare.