Type 72Z

The Type 72Z is a Chinese third-generation main battle tank (MBT), an upgrade of the Type 72 series. It represents a significant modernization effort, incorporating advanced technologies to improve its firepower, mobility, and protection compared to its predecessors.

The Type 72Z is typically equipped with a 125mm smoothbore gun, capable of firing armor-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot (APFSDS), high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT), and high-explosive fragmentation (HE-FRAG) rounds, as well as guided missiles. It often incorporates an autoloader system, reducing crew size and improving the rate of fire.

Improvements over earlier Type 72 variants often include enhanced fire control systems, such as thermal imaging, laser rangefinders, and digital ballistic computers, enabling improved accuracy and target acquisition in various weather conditions and at night.

The tank's armor protection is generally enhanced with composite armor and explosive reactive armor (ERA) packages, providing improved resistance against kinetic energy penetrators and shaped charge warheads.

Mobility is typically improved through the use of a more powerful engine and upgraded suspension systems, enhancing the tank's cross-country performance.

While specific details can vary depending on the particular upgrade package applied, the Type 72Z represents a substantial modernization of the Type 72 platform, bringing it closer to modern MBT standards.