Merkava (Israel)

The Merkava is the main battle tank of the Israeli Army. The first Merkava Mk1 tank was delivered to the Israeli Army in 1979. From 1983, Israel received the Mk2 with improved mobility, a fire control system and an internal 60 mm mortar. From 1990 the Mk2 was replaced by the Merkava Mk3 which is now in service with the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).

Some features of the Mk3 are a 1200hp engine with new transmission, new suspension system and a ballistic protection thanks to special armour modules.

Currently, the IDF has some 1200 Merkava Mk2 and 3 tanks operational. From 2004 the new Merkava Mk4 entered service with the IDF. The Mk4 has a new 120mm gun, new fire control systems and modular ballistic armour. The Mk4 has a 120mm gun and 3x 7.62mm machine guns (of which 2 roof-mounted and one co-axial with the main canon). The tank has a ammunition storage capable for 50x 120mm rounds and 10.000 rounds for the 7.62mm guns.

Merkava of the Israeli Army