AMX-30

The AMX-30 is a French main battle tank designed by GIAT Industries (now Nexter Systems). It was first delivered to the French Army in 1966, and production continued until 1997. The AMX-30 was designed to be a relatively lightweight and mobile tank, prioritizing firepower and maneuverability over heavy armor protection. This design philosophy contrasted with contemporary tank designs, such as the Soviet T-62 and American M60, which emphasized heavier armor.

The AMX-30 is armed with a 105mm CN-105 F1 rifled gun, capable of firing a variety of ammunition, including high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) rounds and armor-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot (APFSDS) rounds. Secondary armament typically consists of a 20mm autocannon and a 7.62mm machine gun.

The tank's mobility is provided by a SOFAM 12Vxh V12 diesel engine, giving it a good power-to-weight ratio. However, the AMX-30's thin armor made it vulnerable to modern anti-tank weapons, leading to upgrades and variants focusing on improved protection.

The AMX-30 has been exported to numerous countries worldwide and has seen combat in various conflicts. Variants include the AMX-30B2, featuring improved fire control and armor, and the AMX-30 AuF1 self-propelled howitzer. The AMX-30 has gradually been replaced in many armies by newer, more advanced main battle tanks.