Type 72Z
Script error: No such module "Distinguish". Template:Use dmy dates Script error: No such module "Infobox".Template:Template otherScript error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". Template:T-54/55 navigation The Type 72Z tank (also known as the T-72Z and the Safir-74,[1] and the Al-Zubair I in Sudan)[2] is a highly modernized version of the Type 59 and T-54/T-55 tanks,[1] with upgrades carried out by the Iranian Defense Industries Organization.[3]
The tank is not to be confused with an Iraqi modernization also known as T-72Z, said to carry a 125 mm gun.[4]
History
Script error: No such module "Unsubst". The Type 72Z was first announced by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in 1996.[1] The upgrades to the Type 59 and T-54/T-55 tanks were carried out by the Vehicle Industries Group of the Defence Industries Organization, in order to extend the service life of tanks already in use with the Iranian army.[3]
Upgrades
The 100mm gun of the T-55/Type 59 was replaced with an Iranian-produced derivative of the 105mm M68 gun, capable of firing 9M117 Bastion anti-tank guided missiles as well as NATO standard ammunition.[3][2][5] The Slovenian Fotona Electronic Fire Control System (EFCS-3-55) was added, with automatic and manual gun stabilizers, a laser rangefinder, second-generation night sights, a ballistic computer, and an independent viewer and target designation system for the commander.[3][2][1] Electric smoke grenade dischargers were also added to provide concealment on top of the existing ability to create a smoke screen by injecting diesel fuel into the left exhaust outlet.[3][2][6]
Explosive reactive armor (ERA) developed by the Shahid Kolah Dooz Industrial Complex can be fitted to the Type 72Z, providing protection against projectiles and napalm-type weapons. Side track skirts similar to those on the Type 59 were added to T-54/T-55 tanks upgraded with ERA. [3]
The engine was replaced with a Ukrainian 780 hp V46-6 diesel engine,[2][1] together with the SPAT-1200 transmission system.[3] Air conditioning, power steering and a fire suppression system are also believed to have been installed.[6]
Variants
- Safir-74 - Iranian T-54/T-55 tanks which have gone through similar upgrades.[1] Safir means "messenger" in Persian.[7]
- Al-Zubair I - Sudanese variant of the Type 72Z manufactured by the Military Industry Corporation,[8] with the engine upgraded with a supercharger.[9]
Operators
- Template:Country data Iran[1]
- Template:Country data Sudan: First purchased in 2006.[11]
Non-state operators
See also
References
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- ↑ a b Galen Wright (15 March 2011) Iranian Military Capability 2011 - Ground Forces
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