February 2008 « Arab Defense

In 1996 Oman took delivery of two 83m corvettes, Qahir Al Amwaj and Al Mua'zzar, built by Vosper Thornycroft (UK) Ltd of Southampton. Project Muheet to build the two corvettes was completed in just over four years.

The ship is based on a stealth version of the Mark 9 corvette. The hull and superstructure have been designed with features including the cladding of surfaces with radar absorbent material and angled sides to reduce the radar cross section. The Qahir Al Amwaj class has speed of 25 knots up to Sea State 5 and 15 knots in Sea State 6.

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Sudans auto industry covers Medium and heavy trucks(few thousand)And,it produces a relatively high numbers of cars(at least 20 000 thousand cars and buses)

Sudanese Made Automotives.

Sudanese Made Automotive Vehicle.

Sudanese Made Automotives.

Sudanese Made Automotives. Tractor and Vehicle Production Lines

Sudanese Made Automotives. Rolling out New Tractors

Giad industry
Giad industrial city is the biggest industrial complex in Sudan and is located 40 km south,of the capital khartoum.

This complex produces: electrical cables and wires(45 000 tons/year))

All sort of pipes(70 000 ton/year)
Steel(60.000 ton/year)
Bar-mill(150 000 ton/year)
Tractor(1500 units)
Medium and heavy trucks(few thousand)
And,it produces a relatively high numbers of cars(at least 20 000 thousand cars and buses)

The industrial zone is divided into three sectors:

1. Metallic sector
2. Automotives sector

The metallic sector contains:

1. Steel factory & rolling mill
2. Aluminum plant
3. Copper plant
4. Electrical wires & cables plant
5. Pipes complex which composes of:
* Longitudinal welded pipes plant
* spiral welded pipes plant
* Electrical resistance welded pipes plant
The Automotives Sector in “GIAD” contains:

* Chassis and cargo body fabrication workshop.
* Engine, transmission and axle assembly workshop.
* Body making workshop.
* Press workshop.
* Painting workshop.
* Medium &heavy trucks assembly line.
* Tractor assembly line.
* Pick-up assembly line.
* Light-truck assembly line.
* Passenger’s car assembly line.

GIAD Factory

The ever first plant for defense industries in Sudan was opened in 1960, to produce ammunitions for light weapons. However, the preparations for the creation of an inclusive Military Industrial Corporation started in the early 1990s. It has been officially established by a Transitional Decree in 1993, and then ratified by the National Assembly in 1994.

Sudanese made Mig Fighter Jet

Artillaries

Al Bashir Military Tank

Sudanese Made Military Tank

Production Line

Military Industry Corporation

The ever first plant for defense industries in Sudan was opened in 1960, to produce ammunitions for light weapons. However, the preparations for the creation of an inclusive Military Industrial Corporation started in the early 1990s. It has been officially established by a Transitional Decree in 1993, and then ratified by the National Assembly in 1994.

The idea of the establishment of the Military Industry Corporation, emerged in the early 1990s.. This industrial base was, then, called the Military Industry Corporation to be a part of the Ministry of Defense and to be directly supervised by the Commander-in- Chief, by the provisional Decree of 1993.

The MIC produces a vast array of products; such as heavy and light artillery, anti-tank and antiaircraft guns, light weaponry,such as machine guns, rifles and pistols.

In addition to the ammunitions for these weapons, rocket launchers, rounds,day and night vision devices, communications, electronic and optics equipment and appliances.

MIC organization

The Activities of the MIC are covered by the following sectors:-

1- Sector of Weapons (light, medium and heavy weapons).
2- Sector of Ammunitions (small, medium and bigger sizes).
3- Sector of Vehicles.
4- Sector of Heavy Machineries and Armoured Vehicles.
5- Sector of Metals.
6- Sector of Electronics and Communications Appliances & Devices.
7- Sector of Explosives and Initiators .
8- Sector of Aviation and Air Defense.
9- Sector of Artillery Rockets.
10- Marine Sector.
11- Sector of gears

Elshaheed Ibrahim Shams eldeen Complex:

It has been established in 2002 to produce heavy machineries and armored vehicles. The complex has many factories to produce tanks, armored personnel carriers, self-propelled artilleries, bulldozers and excavators for civil and military purposes.
The complex has an integrated industrial basis; such as building framework and structures, assembly, upgrading, maintenance and rehabilitation of tanks, armored vehicles and machineries.

Body Construction factory, equipped with modern machines to cut metal by laser and plasma, heat treatment and furnace for forming turrets of the tanks.

Maintenance and Modernization Factory for Rehabilitation of the Tank (DIGNA).
Assembly Workshop.
Engineering Services.
Lathes workshop
Technical services workshop.
Operational tests terrains

Multiple Rocket Launcher

Production Line

Artillary

Amir Military Tank

Military Industry Corporation

Alzargaa Engineering Complex:

Founded in 1999 and inaugurated in 2004, Zargaa is an integrated industrial complex to produce electronic devices, laser and optical equipments. Zargaa is also a research and consultancy services provider.

It assembles and produces as well, the communication and wireless equipments as HF&VHF. The ZEC produces and distributes electronic and optoelectronic equipment for both military and civil purposes. It has good and potential capabilities in designing and programming electronic circuits

It plays an important role in providing SUDATEL (SUDANI Mobile phone) with a variety of cellular phones, as well as their maintenance and trainings of personnel, through the networks of agents the nationwide. It provides a distinguished service of maintenance thanks to the proficiency, competence and technically high qualification of its personnel.

It represents several international agencies in the field of communications as the international corporation ZTE

Sudan Military Industries

Soba/SPG-9

Karar (7.62 X 51 mm)

Dinar/G3

Khawad (12.7 mm)

Nijoumi Howitzers(100mm)

Aboud (81mm)

Amir Vehicle

Safaat Aviation Complex(SAC)

Inaugurated in 2005 a, Safat Aviation Complex (SAC) is one of MIC strategic projects, established in the framework of the MIC’s method to provide the Armed Forces with the necessary warfare to enable them perform their duties. So, Safat is planned to attain the following goals:

Supporting and providing the air forces with the required avionic technologies.
Importing technologies of maintenance and assembly of airplanes in the Sudan, considering the important role of aviation in peace and war time.
Safat Aviation Complex is composed of 6 sectors:

1- Sector of Fighters:
2- Sector of Helicopter:
3- Sector of Cargo planes:
4- Sector of Light airplanes:
5- Sector of Radars:
6- Sector of Training

The PC9 mm pistol combat has been designed with advanced technology specifically for military and law enforcement forces. This Pistol works with short recoil and has double action trigger, automatic pin safety lock, decoking lever with external slide catch. This pistol is automatically loaded by magazine after firing of final shot the slide is stopped.

Pc9 Combat Pistol

The PC9 mm pistol combat has been designed with advanced technology specifically for military and law enforcement forces. This Pistol works with short recoil and has double action trigger, automatic pin safety lock, decoking lever with external slide catch. This pistol is automatically loaded by magazine after firing of final shot the slide is stopped.

RIFLE TYPE KL - 7.62 mm

The Assault rifle type KL-7.62 mm is a gas-operated rifle and capable both of semi-automatic and automatic fire and intended for destroying hostile individual and group also can be in close combat by bayonet and butt stock has become the weapon of all army forces especially suited for the partisan war fares in every weather conditions.The rifle is supplied in various types such as fixed butt stock (KLS), under folding butt stock (KLF) & side folding butt stock (KLT). Also it should be mentioned that the rifle has a multi-purpose bayonet.

Retractable Butt Stock (g3-a4)

This requires a 7.62 mm x 51 propellant cartridge. A blank attachment permits 7.62 x 51 blank ammunition to be fired. The Rifle G3 is available in three models.

Fixed Butt Stock (g3-a3)

The Rifle G3 is an automatic small arm which can fire single shots or bursts from all firing positions. The Rifle G3 is a recoil operated weapon incorporating a delayed roller locked bolt system. Ammunition is fed from a 20-rounds magazine or can be inserted manually. Telescopic sight or infrared scopes can be employed without modifying the rifle. Rifle grenades can be launched with rifle.

S-5.56 Rifle

The automatic cal 5.56 mm is an infantry weapon capable both of semiautomatic and automatic fire and intended for destroying hostile individual and group effectives. This weapon is loaded by indirect pressure of powder gas. Cartridges are fed from 20 round box type magazine.This weapon is characterized by light weight, high accuracy and rate of fire, easy operation and larger carrying number of cartridges and enjoys a better annihilating fire power to an effective target a range of 460 meters.

KH 2002, 5.56x 45 mm

The KH-2002 is a 5.56 mm, automatic, gas operated, Bullpup assault rifle and is designed for the unique requirements of various operation missions.It uses a simple four stages fire mechanism, which provide single shot, automatic fire, and three-round bursts. A selector lever can activate safetyposition firearm. The top of carrying handle can also be used to mount optical or nightsights
to provide the high fire accuracy. Extensive engineering works on design of internal and external ballistics of KH-2002, ensures its efficiency and high performance.

Spg 9 Sub-rifle

The advantages of training by SPG 9 sub-rifles (training aids) are: much lower cost (saving real ammunitions), higher safety, coincides of firing results as if real ammunition is employed, no wear out of barrels, utilization of smaller fire field & time saving.

106 mm SUB-RIFLE
The advantages of training by 106 mm sub-rifles (training aids) are: much lower cost (saving real ammunitions), higher safety, coincides of firing results as if real ammunition is employed, no wear out of barrels, utilization of smaller fire field & time saving.

Sub-machine Gun Mpt9k

The light submachine gun MPT9K cal. 9 mm is an automatic weapon and can be used for either single and bursts selectively from all shooting positions. The weapon is loaded directly with pressure of powder gas. This weapon is specially used in personal protection guards.

SUB- MACHINE GUN-MPT9mm and MPT9Smm

The submachine gun MPT9 cal. 9 mm is an automatic weapon and can be used for either single and bursts selectively from all shooting positions. The weapon is loaded directly with pressure of power gas and its barrel cooled with air. Cartridges are fed from 30 round box type magazine, in order to carry the weapon easily and better usage it is usually equipped with retractable butt stock, if required it can be replaced with fix butt stock.

iranian made mortar LAUNCHERS

FATEH MORTAR LAUNCHERS and NAROLLAH MORTAR LAUNCHERS and HM14 MORTAR LAUNCHERS

With its light weight and simple operation is as a portable weapons group, and as far as its range is able to implement a large volume of firing rapidly on targets. This mortar is designed to be applied on any kinds of battle-fields and under any climate. This mortar is generally operated by two persons but in urgent case it can be used by one as well. The sight is simple and accurate and it remains in firm position during firing.

81 mm HM15
Hadid 81mm mortar launchers are of unrifled and barrel-loading type with 360o of firing field. Because of possessing high shooting angle, this weapon enables to fire from behind of obstacles. In regions where routs are impracticable, the mortar can be taken apart and carried by infantry. Due to its simple structure, it can be erected and operated only by two or three persons.

120 mm HM16
Hadid 120mm mortar launchers are of unrifled and barrel-loading type with 360o of firing field. Because of possessing high shooting angle, this weapon enables to fire from behind of obstacles. In regions where routs are impracticable, the mortar can be taken apart and carried by infantry. Due to its simple structure, it can be erected and operated only by two or three persons.

Anti-tank Gun Spg-9

Light weight SPG9 Anti-Tank & anti armoured shelter weapon with high penetration depth. The spare parts are completely compatible with eastern model and also mountable on vehicle with special rotary stand (optional) with high maneuverability.v

RPG 7 ANTI TANK ROCKET LAUNCHER and COMMANDO ROCKET LAUNCHER

The light RPG 7 anti tank rocket launcher is a quite effective weapon against Tanks, motion targets including any armoured ones, fortification and artillery. This rocket launcher which lacks groove, repulsion spring and cocking lever is equipped with barrel, firing mechanism, flint hammer & sighting notch, high precision, little weight, simple design and feasibility in any atmospheric conditions are among some particularities of this weapon.

Single Barrel Launcher and Double BARREL LAUNCHER

A super light rocket Launcher carried by only one man on foot, specially used by irregular forces, usable in forests & mountains.

Nakhjir Sniper Rifle Svd

The SVD is a well-designed, light-weight and well-built precision rifle which generally uses in search and destroy missions from a long distance.The rifle is a semi-automatic, gas-operated and air-cooled arm with 10 rounds magazine and can be used with various optical and night sights

Anti Aircraftmachine Gun

The MGD-12.7 mm is an anti-aircraft machine gun, which applies repulsion force of gunpowder gas for loading and ejection of the rounds. This gun is designed for surface air firing purposes to aim at low altitude flying or swooping aircrafts, parachutists, light armored targets and other ground aims enemy.

Machine Gun Pkm-t80

The PKM is a gas-operated and light machine gun which is intended for use for regular and partisan war fares. The reasons of extensive usages of this rifle in armed forces are; simple operation, light-weight, high accuracy and efficiency. This machine gun is infantry support gun normally fired from its bipod mount, however it can be installed in tripod and is used in the classic role of a heavy machine gun to provide long-range area fire and cover final protective lines at range of 1000 meters.

7.62 mm MACHIN GUN

The MGA3 is an open fully automatic weapon for sustained firing or firing in bursts. It can be employed by all arms of services, army, navy, air force for combating point and area targets.The weapon may be used as standard machine gun for different purposes, when employed with the bipod it is designated as a light machine gun (LMG). When used with mount is designated
Tripod as a heavy machine gun (HMG). special mountings are available for installation on vehicles, armoured vehicles & aircrafts.

40 mm RPG7 SUB RIFLE

The mechanism of RPG 7 sub-rifle (training aid) expedites the training for operating RPG 7 in military exercises in order to facilitate different process such as operation, loading, targeting & firing. Preferences are considered: reduction in expenses, increase in safety during firing, creating the main firing conditions, cross leveling, loading, adjustment, firing from a distance of 200 m without any accessories.

1/4ton Tactical Jeep

Double differential, 1/4 ton tactical (Thunder Jeep) A four-door tactical jeep with suitable equipment for different requirements of headquarters and operational units of armed forces with special capabilities.

3/4ton Tactical Vehicle

3/4ton Tactical Vehicle

1 , 1/4 Ton Tactical Vehicle

Equipped with two speed transfer case and mechanical engagement system. 4WD, With differential lock. Driver cab. Equipped with suspension system including leaf spring and telescopic shock absorber. Hard and soft top, folding wind screen. Having two war and civil lighting systems.

Rakhsh 4x4 Wheeled Apc

Characterized by high speed on road and excellent off-road mobility, The vehicle can transport 10 men. The vehicle is fitted with a 12.7mm Automatic Gun and can be fitted with different cupolas for various types of armaments. The crew can see and fire through 10 vision blocks and firing ports and can be quickly embarked or deployed through one rear door and two side doors. Specific Equipment Central inflating system Run flat system Winch Differential lock Air condition system.Option Equipment Ceramic-composite layer Protection against 12.7mm Up to14.5 mm Smoke discharger and N.B.C protection system.

Infantry Combat Vehicle Bmp-2

This infantry combat vehicle is a full- tracked and highly mobile, provided with armaments and armoured protection. The purpose of the vehicle is to increase mobility, to improve power of fire and protection of infantry that operates in the battle field under the conditions when nuclear and missile weapons are used. The vehicle is equipped with 30 mm automatic gun 2A42 with double-belt feed. The gun is stabilized in two planes. The vehicle is also equipped with a 7.62-mm PKT machine gun, mounted coaxially with the gun and a launcher for fighting against the armoured targets from and outside the vehicle. The armament mounted in the infantry combat vehicle enables the vehicle to fight against different targets including tanks and combat helicopters. The vehicle is also equipped with NBC system for protection of the crew and equipment inside the vehicle from the shock wave and penetrating nuclear radiation of an explosion of nuclear ammunition, for protection from the chemical and bacteriological weapons, and also for protection of the crew from
radioactive dust when moving over contaminated terrain. To lay the smoke screen for concealment, the vehicle is equipped with smoke - generating equipment and smoke grenade launching system. BMP-2 can cross water obstacles afloat using the track assembly for the purpose. The vehicle can also be used for air landing. The personnel capacity of the vehicle is ten consisting of three crew members ( commander, driver and gunner-missile operator ) and seven troop.

Cobra BMT-2 APC

The Iranian Cobra or BMT-2 armored personnel carrier appearss to be an indigenous design armed with a 30 mm gun or the ZU-23-2 anti-aircraft gun—a light automatic weapons system that Iran has been manufacturing for some years. Like the Zulfiqar main battle tank, the Cobra has been undergoing field trials in Iranian military exercises since May 1996. In late July 1997 Iranian President Hashemi Rafsanjani of Iran formally inaugurated a production line for the domestically manufactured Zulfiqar main battle tanks and Boragh tracked armoured personnel carriers. The facility will also produce the BMT-2 personnel carrier identified.

Boragh

The Chinese version of the BMP-1 is called the WZ 501. The WZ501 family is a derivative of the the Soviet BMP-1, with a slight reduction in weight and maximum road speed. It features a similar low pressure 73mm gun and the Sagger ATGM, along with six roadwheels per side. The Type 86 IFV is fully amphibious and is fitted with an NBC system and infra-red night vision equipments for commander, driver, and gunner.

China maintains roughly 1,000 Type-86 IFV's in operation. Variants

WZ501 (BMP-1) IFV 73mm gun, Red Arrow 73 (ATGM)
WZ503 (WZ501) No turret, taller hull Type
WZ504 (WZ501) ATGM Red Arrow 73
WZ505 (WZ501) Armored Ambulance - Raised rear compartment
WZ506 (WZ503) Armored Command Post (4 radios)

Boragh - Iranian-made modification of the Chinese Type WZ 501/503 armored infantry fighting vehicle. It was reported in early May 2002, that three additional variations of the Boragh had been unveiled by the Iranian Defence Industries Organisation (DIO) of Iran's Vehicle and Equipments Group (VEIG). These consisted of a 120mm self-propelled mortar variant, of an ammunition resupply vehicle and of an APC fitted with improved armaments.
Specifications

Combat Weight 13,300 kg
Max Road Speed 65 km/h
Power to Weight Ratio 22 hp/ton
Height 2.16 m
Crew 3 + 8

BORAQ SUSPENSION SYSTEM
The vehicle is full-tracked and relatively light wich with high movement and travel ability can be used in various combat operations. This vehicle is equipped with suspension system, which is very suitable for all regions especially for sandy roads. Track rubbers prevent damages on the asphalt roads. Also, sprocket rubbers cause elimination of track noises.

BORAQ ENGINE
According to Boraq users one of the most important features ofThe Iranian Zulfiqar [Zolfaqar] main battle tank is believed to be pieced together or developed from major components of the Russian T-72 and American M48 and M60 tanks. This tank, which is claimed to be in production in Irana, is said to be similiar in configuration to the M-48 and M-60. Other reports suggest that it bears a close resemblance to the American M1 Abrams.

HULL OF BORAQ
Hull of Boraq with low height and suitable angles can be protected against different armaments. Hull design provides complete safety conditions and enough space for the comfort of troop.

ARMAMENT
This vehicle is convenient for movement of troop & capable to shoot either from back portions or the vehicle side firing ports, therefore 12.7mm Dushka machine gun with 360 azimuth angle is equipped.

BORAQ FAMILY
Different types of Boraq vehicle family includes: Commander, Ambulance, Engineering, Ammunition, Tow Missile Launchers, Mortar, Gunned and different naval families.

TRAINING & OPERATION
One of the advantages of this vehicle is its easy training and operating. Also simplicity and considering ergonomics parameters in the vehicle design allows it to be repaired and maintained conveniently and with low cost.

Zulfiqar Tank

One of the features of the Zolfaqar tank which has drawn the attention of the Defense Ministry is that indigenously-made parts have been used in it. The testing prototypes of the tank were tested in 1993. Six semi-industrial prototypes of the tank were produced and tested in 1997.

In April 1997 Acting Commander of the Ground Forces of the Iranian Army, Lieutenant General Mohammad Reza Ashtiani announced that the mass production of Zulfiqar tanks, which began in 1996, was still in progress. He stated that the manufacture of 520 different kinds of tank parts, 600 artillery parts, repair of 500 tanks and armored vehicles have been carried out. In late July 1997 Iranian President Hashemi Rafsanjani of Iran formally inaugurated a production line for the domestically manufactured Zulfiqar main battle tanks and Boragh tracked armoured personnel carriers. The facility, the Shahid Kolah Dooz Industrial Complex, will also produce the BMT-2 personnel carrier identified.

The Iranian tank is armed with a 125mm smoothbore gun fitted with a fume extractor which may be fed from an automatic loader. It is known that the Zulfiqar uses suspension like that fitted to Western MBTs such as the M48/M60 MBT. The diesel engine is not taken from the T-72 since this has a distinct exhaust outlet on the left side of the hull. This feature is absent on the Zulfiqar.

The most recent T-72 is the 'S' version. The T-72S MBT weighs 44.5 tonnes and is armed with the latest stabilized 125mm smoothbore 2A46M gun, IA40-1 computerised fire-control system (FCS) with laser rangefinder and day/image intensification night sighting system. As well as firing the normal types of 125mm separate-loading ammunition (projectile and charge), the T-72S can also fire a Svir 9M119 (NATO designation AT-11 'Sniper') laser beam-riding guided projectile to a range of 4,000m. The T-72S is powered by the V-84MS diesel engine, which develops 840hp and, with a combat weight of 44.5 tonnes, a power-to-weight ratio of 18.87hp/tonne is obtained. For greater cross-country mobility, the suspension has also been upgraded and mine protection improved.

T-72Z An upgrade has been developed in Iran called the Type 72Z in order to extend the operational life of the T-54/T-55 MBTs, and the similar Chinese Type 59 equivalent used by Iran, all of which are armed with a 100mm gun.

The existing 100mm gun has been replaced by a 105mm M68 rifled tank gun in service with Iran on the M60A1 MBT. The Armament Industries Division of the DIO probably makes this weapon because for some years it has had the capability to bore tank and artillery barrels, such as the 122mm Russian D-30.

To improve first-round hit probability, the Type 72Z has a Slovenian Fontana EFCS-3 computerised FCS. According to the manufacturer, installation of the EFCS-3 FCS enables stationary or moving targets to be engaged while the Type T72Z MBT is static or moving.

The 7.62mm co-axial and roof-mounted 12.7mm machine guns have been retained as has the ability to lay a smoke screen by injecting diesel fuel into the exhaust outlet on the left of the hull. In addition, four electrically operated smoke-grenade dischargers have been mounted on each side of the turret.

At least one example of the Type 72Z has been fitted with a roof-mounted laser warning device, probably coupled to a commander's display and the electrically operated smoke-grenade launchers either side of the turret.

Iranian sources say the upgraded Type 72Z is powered by the V-46-6 V-12 diesel engine developing 780hp. This engine has been integrated into a new powerpack, which also includes the SPAT 1200 transmission for use in automatic or semi-automatic modes. The V-46 V-12 diesel engine is also installed in early production T-72 series MBTs, such as the T-72 and T-72A, and Iran could obtain these from various sources besides Russia.

The Type 72Z's combat weight is quoted as 36 tonnes, power-to-weight ratio 21.66hp/tonne and maximum road speed is 65km/h. This compares with the T-55 MBT, which has a power-to-weight ratio of 16.11hp/tonne and a maximum road speed of 50km/h. Last year, the Shahid Kolah Dooz Industrial Complex revealed it had developed a new ERA package that can be rapidly fixed to the T-54/ T-55, T-72 and other MBTs to improve battlefield survivability against chemical energy (CE) and kinetic energy (KE) attack. This Iranian ERA package is similar to that being made and marketed by Russia and has been installed on Russian MBTs, such as the T-80BV, for some years. The Iranian ERA armour system comprises one composite layer. This protects against KE and CE projectiles and an extra energetic material that provides protection against KE attack. Iranian sources said this system can be dropped from a height of 5m; will not be activated from small arms fire up to 30mm in calibre or grenades; and is resistant to napalm type weapons.
this vehicle is high mobility and power of the engine. Due to installation of the engine with high movement power in comparison with other full-tracked vehicles, it enjoys very suitable acceleration and speed. The engine is air-cooled with 330 h/p.
It can produce power-to weight ratio up to 25.38 hp/ton. The quick assembly and dismantling in fighting operations take less than 60 minutes.

Zulfiqar MBT

Early in 1994, Iran unveiled a new MBT called the Zulfigar which has been developed by 'Construction Crusade', an arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps.
Russia is known to have provided Iran with a quantity of T-72 MBTs and recent reports have indicated that the Zulfigar uses some components of the Russian T-72 including the 125 mm smoothbore gun and automatic loader. The T-72S, which Is an export version of the T-72 and is fitted with ERA, is now being manufactured in Iran under license.

A detailed analysis of available information and photographs of the Zulfiqar reveal that the hull and turret are of welded steel construction and bear little resemblance to the T-72 at all.

The Russian T-72 MBT, like the earlier T-54/T-55/ T-62, is powered by a diesel engine with the air Intakes/ outlets in the hull roof and the single exhaust outlet on the left side of the hull towards the rear.

The new Iranian MBT is powered by a diesel engine with two exhaust outlets in the rear of the hull; this could indicate the engine is a V-type. The layout of the Zulfigar MBT is conventional with the driver front left, turret in the centre and the power pack at the rear. The driver has a single-piece hatch cover that opens to the right and three day periscopes for driving when closed up. Suspension appears to be of the torsion bar type with six dual rubber-tired roadwheels, idler at the front and large drive sprocket at the rear; there are five return rollers.

The roadwheels and other parts of the suspension appear to be very similar to those of the US M60 series MBT which has been in service with Iran for many years. The hull of the Iranian MBT is of the box shape rather than the boat shape of the M48/M60 series.
The front of the turret is well sloped and is angled to the rear to provide the maximum possible level of protection. There is a domed ventilator in the turret roof on the right side and this is similar to that fitted to the US M48/M60 series MBTs, as are the day/night driving lights mounted on the glacis plate.

The commander is seated on the right with the gunner on the left. The two examples of the Zulfiqar do have a number of minor differences in the commander's cupola. The first one is similar to that used in the T-72 while the second one has a cupola that is similar to that developed in Israel and has an externally mounted 12.7 mm MG.
Main armament comprises a 125 mm smoothbore gun which is fitted with a fume extractor and may well be fed by an automatic loader. The 125 mm gun is positioned in a very narrow mantlet and there does not appear to be a coaxial machine gun fitted.

Iran may well have the capability to assemble an MBT, but it must be considered very doubtful if every single component used in the Zulfigar is produced in Iran. Some key subsystems must still be imported. No detailed specifications of the Zulfigar have been released but Iran sources have stated that it has a combat weight of 40 tonnes, is powered by a 1,000 hp diesel and has a maximum road speed of 70 km/h.
Iranian sources also claim that the Zulfigar is fitted with a weapon stabilization system and a computerized fire-control system which includes a laser range-finder. Night vision equipment is also fitted.

Late in 1999, it was stated that development of the third-generation Zulfiqar MBT had been completed and volume production for the Iranian ground forces had commenced.

Since the existence of the Zulfiqar MBT was first revealed in 1994, further development has taken place with the latest version claimed to have fundamental differences, especially in the turret.

According to Iran, the Zulfigar MBT features an NBC system, good cross-country mobility, advanced fire control system (possibly of European origin) and laser range-finder for improved first round hit capability and reinforced passive armor.
It is believed that the 125 mm smooth bore gun and its associated automatic loading system is the same as that installed in the T-72S MBT which is now being manufactured in Iran under a deal signed with Russia several years ago. This feeds the 125 mm projectile and then the charge into the 125 mm gun. A 7.62 mm machine gun is mounted coaxial with the main armament.

Russia and Poland have also supplied Iran with about 200 T-72 series MBTs which were delivered between 1993 and 1995. In many respects the Zulfigar MBT is very similar in. appearance to the now defunct Brazilian ENGESA Osorio MBT but with suspension similar to that of the 105 mm armed M60 MBT already in service with Iran. Prototypes of the Osorio were armed with a 105 mm rifled tank gun or a 120 mm smoothbore gun, both of which were manually loaded.

It is believed that the power pack of the Zulfiqar MBT may also be used in the upgraded Iranian T-54/T-55/ Type 59 MBT which is also called the Type 72Z and covered in a separate entry. This consists of a Russian V-46-6 V-12 diesel developing 780 hp coupled to a SPAT 1200 transmission. This gives Zulfiqar a maximum road speed of 65 km/h.

Status
In production. In service with the Iranian Army. There are no known exports of the Zulfiqar.

Manufacturers
Defence Industries Organisation. Shahid Kolah Dooz Industrial Complex.

T-72Z Safir-74

Iran has developed a new explosive reactive armour (ERA) package that can be fitted to existing or new build MBTs to provide protection against kinetic and high-explosive anti-tank projectiles. If fitted to existing Iranian MBTs it would considerably increase their battlefield survivability.

Type 72Z is a modernized version of T series tanks which is up-graded by D.I.O. High combat performance of this tank can be defined by its very high and accurate fire power, very good maneuverability (mobility) and proper armour protection.Mounting a new armament system consisting of :105mm barrel gun model M68 with a long operational life, effective range, precision, high
firing power and simple replacement without removal of the turret.Electronic Fire Control System (EFCS-3), as one of the most advanced fire control systems makes Type 72Z enjoy a high combat firing power in different condition of tank and targets at day and night:Optimum chance to hit the target within a short time.Automatic/manual stabilizing and firing the gun.Capability of firing from mobile tank at moving or stable target.Using V46-6 engine with 780 h.p, Type 72Z performs ideal acceleration and speed. Easy driving and maneuverability can be increased with semi-automatic and automatic gear shifting modes. Installation of all power compartment that is : engine, gear box, brake, steering, transfer case, cooling system and hydraulic system in an assembly called Ã¢â‚¬Å“power packÃ¢â‚¬Â� have ensured lower repair time, quick mounting and dismantling of power pack. By employing armour reactive protection boxes on this tank, protection against antitank weapons is increased.

Tosan Tank

In December 1997 it was reported that Iran has manufactured a light battle tank that it intends to mass produce in the near future for unconventional warfare. Named Tosan [Towan] [Wild Horse or Fury], the tank is said to be capable of rapid response and built for strategic missions. Tosan is equipped with a 90 mm gun, an imrproved firing and targeting system and does not require special trucks to carry it. Iran claims it is nearly self-sufficient in arms.

Khalid (Chieftain)

Information:
Designation: Chieftain
Contractor: BAe Systems Land Systems, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
Country of Origin: Britain
Service Year: 1971
Type: Main Battle Tank
Crew: 4

Performance:
Powerplant: 1 x Leyland L60 2-stroke 6-cylinder multi-fuel engine with an output of 750 hp.
Max Speed: 30 mph (48 km/h)
Range*: 280 miles (450 km)

*Indicates road range for vehicles or maximum lethal range for towed-artillery systems.

Support Systems:
NBC System: Yes
Night Vision: Yes
Dimensions:
Length: 25 ft (7.52 m)
Width: 11.5 ft (3.50 m)
Height: 9.5 ft (2.90 m)
Weight: 53.3 tons (53,300 kg)

Armament:
1 x 120mm Main Gun
1 x 12.7mm RMG
1 x 7.62mm Coaxial Machine Gun
1 x 7.62mm Machine Gun
2 x 6 Smoke Grenade Dischargers

Ammunition:
64 x 120mm projectiles
300 x 12.7mm ammunition
6,000 x 7.62mm ammunition
12 x Smoke Grenades

Production Notes:
The Chieftain was developed in 1959 and saw production commence in 1971. The solid, if unspectacular, weapon system utilized conventional doctrine in its design. The main gun can fire a variety of standard and specialty rounds and was modified to support a computerized fire control system and main gun stabilization.

The Chieftain was removed from frontline service as a main battle tank in 1996. It still serves in some capacities as a battlefield recovery, engineering, mine-clearing and bridgelayer vehicle variants as the chassis has proved to be extremely adaptable.

Known Variants:
Mk 3/3P - Export Variant (Iran)
Shir 1 (now the 'Khalid') - Modified Chieftain (Iran)
Mk 5/3P - Export Variant (Iran)
Chieftain ARV - Armored Reconnaissance Vehicle
Chieftain AARV - Armored Reconnaissance Vehicle
Chieftain AVLB - Bridgelayer
Chieftain AVRE

Known Operators:
Iran and Jordan.

One of the few IRIAS exponates was this re-worked Chieftain MBT, named Mobarez ("Challenger"), with some new armour on the side, and re-engined with a more powerful engine based on US-technology.

Thunder 1 Artillery

In May 1996, Iran claimed to have successfully tested its first locally made self-propelled gun, the 122 mm Thunder 1. This vehicle is apparently a modification of a Russian 122 mm gun, with a firing range of 15,200 meters and a road speed of 65 kilometers per hour. It may use the Iranian-made Boragh chassis, a modification of the Chinese Type WZ 501/503 armored infantry fighting vehicle.

Raad-2 / Thunder 2 Artillery

In early September 1997 it was reported that Iran had successfully tested a locally built rapid fire mobile field gun known as "Thunder 2." The Defense Industries Organization claimed that the 155 mm self-propelled gun had a high firing rate, accuracy and mobility. It was described as being able to fire five rounds per minute and move with a speed of 70 km (43 miles) per hour in the battlefield. The gun's range was reported as 30 km (19 miles), and it also includes features such as a laser range-finder and a semi-automatic loading system.

Raad - 2 155 mm self- propelled gun- howitzer is an armoured tracked vehicle designed and manufactured by D.I.O. The engine is located in front of the vehicle. There are 5 crew including commander, gunner, driver, and two ammunition loaders. The hull and the turret are made of all welded special alloy steel and provide enough space for the crew to operate freely.

Raad-2 is equipped with automatic laying system, direct fire telescope, night vision device, NBC protection system, automatic and manual fire extinguishing equipment, radio & digital communication, gunner & commander , s control panel and display, GPS & air conditioner system.The engine is multi-fuel with high power to weight ratio.