David
Sat January 3, 2004 8:19pm
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M-240B Machine Gun
Function: Deter, and if necessary, compel adversaries by enabling individuals and small units to engage targets with accurate, lethal, direct automatic fire.
Description: The M240B is a general-purpose machine gun. It can be mounted on a bipod, tripod, aircraft, or vehicle. The M240B is a belt-fed, air-cooled, gas-operated, fully automatic machine gun that fires from the open bolt position. This reliable 7.62mm machine gun delivers more energy to the target than the smaller caliber M-249 SAW. It is being issued to infantry, armor, combat engineer, special force/rangers, and selected field artillery units that require medium support fires and will replace the ground-mounted M-60 series machine guns currently in use.
Ammunition is fed into the weapon from a 100-round bandoleer containing a disintegrating metallic split-link belt. The gas from firing one round provides the energy for firing the next round. Thus, the gun functions automatically as long as it is supplied with ammunition and the trigger is held to the rear. As the gun is fired, the belt links separate and are ejected from the side. Empty cases are ejected from the bottom of the gun. A spare barrel is issued with each M240B, and barrels can be changed quickly as the weapon has a fixed head space. However, barrels from different weapons should not be interchanged. The bore of the barrel is chromium plated, reducing barrel wear to a minimum.
Entered Army Service: 1997
General Characteristics, M-240B Machine Gun
Manufacturer:
FN Manufacturing (Columbia, SC)
Length:
49 inches
Weight:
27.6 pounds
Weight of tripod-mount M122A1 tripod with/flex-mount, complete:
20 pounds
Maximum Range:
3,725 meters
Maximum Effective Range:
1,100 meters with tripod and T&E
Height of M240B on the tripod mount M122A1:
17.5 inches
Ammunition:
7.62 mm ball, tracer, armor-piercing, blank, dummy. Armor-piercing round is not authorized for training.
Tracer burnout :
900 meters
Rates of fire:
- Sustained: 100 rounds per minute fired in 6-to-9 round bursts and 4-to-5 seconds between bursts (barrel change every 10 minutes).
- Rapid: 200 rounds per minute fired in 10-to-13 round bursts and 2-to-3 seconds between bursts (barrel change every 2 minutes).
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 8:19pm
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M249 SAW Light Machine Gu
Function: Hand-held combat machine gun.
Description: The Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW), or 5.56mm M249 is an individually portable, gas operated, magazine or disintegrating metallic link-belt fed, light machine gun with fixed headspace and quick change barrel feature. The M249 engages point targets out to 800 meters, firing the improved NATO standard 5.56mm cartridge. The SAW forms the basis of firepower for the fire team. The gunner has the option of using 30-round M16 magazines or linked ammunition from pre-loaded 200-round plastic magazines. The gunner's basic load is 600 rounds of linked ammunition.
Background: The SAW was developed through an initially Army-led research and development effort and eventually a Joint NDO program in the late 1970s/early 1980s to restore sustained and accurate automatic weapons fire to the fire team and squad. When actually fielded in the mid-1980s, the SAW was issued as a one-for-one replacement for the designated "automatic rifle" (M16A1) in the Fire Team. In this regard, the SAW filled the void created by the retirement of the Browning Automatic Rifle (BAR) during the 1950s because interim automatic weapons (e.g. M-14E2/M16A1) had failed as viable "base of fire" weapons. Early in the SAW's fielding, the Army identified the need for a Product Improvement Program (PIP) to enhance the weapon. This effort resulted in a "PIP kit" which modifies the barrel, handguard, stock, pistol grip, buffer, and sights.
General Characteristics, M249 SAW
Manufacturer:
Fabrique Nationale Manufacturing, Inc.
Length:
40.87 inches (103.81 centimeters)
Weight:
With bipod and tools: 15.16 pounds (6.88 kilograms)
200-round box magazine: 6.92 pounds (3.14 kilograms)
30-round magazine: 1.07 pounds (.49 kilograms)
Bore Diameter:
5.56mm (.233 inches)
Maximum Effective Range:
3281 feet (1000 meters) for an area target
Maximum Range:
2.23 miles (3.6 kilometers)
Rates of Fire:
Cyclic: 725 rounds per minute
Sustained: 85 rounds per minute
Unit Replacement Cost:
$4,087
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 8:24pm
Rating: 6
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M2 .50 Cal Machine Gun
Description: The Browning M2 .50 Caliber Machine Gun, Heavy barrel is an automatic, recoil operated, air-cooled machine gun with adjustable headspace and is crew transportable with limited amounts of ammunition over short distances. By repositioning some of the component parts, ammunition may be fed from either the left or right side. A disintegrating metallic link-belt is used to feed the ammunition into the weapon. This gun is has a back plate with spade grips, trigger, and bolt latch release. This gun may be mounted on ground mounts and most vehicles as an anti-personnel and anti-aircraft weapon. The gun is equipped with leaf-type rear sight, flash suppressor and a spare barrel assembly. Associated components are the M63 antiaircraft mount and the M3 tripod mount.
History: Numerous manufacturers originally produced the M2 Heavy Machine Gun.
General Characteristics, M2 .50 Caliber Machine Gun
Builder:
Saco Defense
Length:
61.42 inches (156 centimeters)
Weight:
Gun: 84 pounds (38 kilograms)
M3 Tripod (Complete): 44 pounds (19.98 kilograms)
Total: 128 pounds (58 kilograms)
Bore Diameter:
.50 inches (12.7mm)
Maximum Effective Range:
2000 meters with tripod mount
Maximum Range:
4.22 miles (6.8 kilometers)
Cyclic Rate of Fire:
550 rounds per minute
Unit Replacement Cost:
$14,002
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 8:51pm
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Mark 75 3"/62 Calibe
Function: Single barrel, lightweight, water-cooled, rapid fire, remote controlled, dual purpose automatic enclosed naval gun.
Description: A lightweight, rapid-fire three-inch gun mounted on small combat vessels.
History: Because of performance, lightweight and low manning requirements, the MK 75 is suited for installation on small combat vessels. Current usage includes one gun mount each for some Navy frigates and hydrofoils, and for one gun mount each for the larger Coast Guard cutters. The Mark 75 was provisionally approved for service use in September 1975.
The Naval Systems Division (NSD) of FMC Corporation and General Electric Co. (Ordnance Systems Division) were both licensed by the gun's designer, OTO Melara of La Spezia, Italy, and competed for the right to manufacture the MK-75 in the United States. In 1975, FMC/NSD won the competition. Since 1981, however, all MK 75 buys have been competed for by FMC/NSD and OTO Melara.
The first United States produced gun mount was delivered in August 1978.
General Characteristics, Mark 75 3"/62 Caliber Gun
Contractor:
Designed by OTO Melara, Italy
Manufactured by FMC Naval Systems Division and OTO Melara
Caliber:
76 mm (3 inch)
Range:
10 nautical miles (11.5 statue miles, 18.4 km)
Guidance System:
Remotely controlled
Type of Fire:
80 rounds per minute automatic
Date Deployed:
1978
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 9:18pm
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AN/TVS-5 Crew Served Weap
Function: Image intensification night sight for detecting, acquiring, and engaging targets at night. Attaches to M2 .50 caliber heavy machine gun. May be used for surveillance and observation either mounted on the weapon system or hand held.
Description: The AN/TVS-5 Night Vision Sight is a portable, battery operated, electro-optical instrument used for observation and aimed fire of weapons at night. It amplifies reflected light such as moonlight, starlight, and sky glow so that the viewed scene becomes visible to the operator. An eye guard prevents visible and infrared light from being emitted from the eyepiece. The AN/TVS-5 is presently the standard night sight for the M2 .50 Caliber and 40mm MK19 heavy machine guns.
The AN/TVS-5 can be tripod mounted for surveillance, however it is generally used in the Marine Corps as a crew-served weapon night sight. The sight comes furnished with the mounting bracket and reticle for the M2 machine gun. Brackets and reticles for use with other weapons must be separately requisitioned. A carrying bag and battery adapter for low temperature operations may also be requisitioned.
History: The AN/TVS-5 was designed in the 1970s to provide a night fighting capability with crew-served weapons. It was procured during the 1980s and delivered to the Fleet Marine Forces upon receipt.
General Characteristics, AN/TVS-5 Crew Served Weapon Night Sight
Manufacturer:
IMO, VARO, Garland, Texas and various vendors
Length:
15 inches (38.1 centimeters)
Width:
6 inches (15.24 centimeters)
Height:
6 inches (15.24 centimeters)
Weight:
8 pounds (3.63 kilograms)
Magnification:
6.5x
Range, Vehicle-Sized Target:
Starlight: 1000 yards (914 meters)
Moonlight: 1200 yards (1096.8 meters)
Field of View:
9? (circular)
Power Source:
2.7 volt mercury battery: BA-1567/U, BA-5567/U, BA-3058/U
Unit Replacement Cost:
$4,005
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 10:02pm
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ZPU-4 14.5mm Anti-Aircraf
Function: Lightweight towed anti-aircraft gun.
Background:Introduced in 1949 the ZPU-4 is a quad version of the basic Soviet 14.5mm machine gun. The ZPU-4 saw service with North Korea during the Korean War and with Iraq during the Gulf War. During the Vietnam war the ZPU-4 was considered to be the most dangerous anti-helicopter weapon of the war. Exported to numerous countries worldwide, the ZPU-4 was also manufactured in China as the Type 56.
Description: The ZPU-4 system is made up four air-cooled, fully automatic 14.5mm machineguns mounted on a 4 wheeled, two axle chassis. While the ZPU-4 may be fired while limbered for traveling, the gun can be jacked off of the ground, using built in leveling jacks, for increased stability.
General Characteristics, ZPU-4 14.5mm Anti-Aircraft Gun
Length:
4 feet (1.2 meters)
Width:
5 feet (1.5 meters)
Height:
6 feet (1.8 meters)
Weight:
1 ton
Rate of Fire:
550-600 rounds per minute, per gun.
Maximum Range:
1,400m vs. air targets
Introduction Date:
1949
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 10:02pm
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ZU-23 23mm Anti-Aircraft
Function: Lightweight towed anti-aircraft gun.
Background: Introduced in 1964 the ZU-23 was a lightweight air-transportable anti-aircraft gun system. The ZU-23 saw extensive use with airborne and airmobile units, as well as some use in lower readiness motorized rifle units that had not received the mechanized ZSU-23-4 self-propelled air-defense artillery vehicle.
The ZU-23 has an effective range of 2,500 meters vs. air targets, is effective against light armored vehicles and ground targets, and can be fired while limbered.
Description: The ZU-23 weapon system consists of two air-cooled 23mm automatic only cannons mounted on a two wheel transport-firing carriage. While the gun can be fired while limbered for traveling, it is intended to be emplaced wheels up, suspended on its carriage. The carriage contains three built in jacks to level the platform.
General Characteristics, ZU-23 23mm Anti-Aircraft Gun
Length:
14.85 feet (4.57 meters)
Width:
5.95 feet (1.83 meters)
Height:
9.33 feet (2.87 meters)
Weight:
1900 pounds
Rate of Fire:
Maximum:
800-1000 rounds per minute, per gun.
Sustained:
200 rounds per minute per gun.
Maximum Range:
2,500 meters vs. air targets
Introduction Date:
1964
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 10:15pm
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BMP-1 APC
Function: Soviet Union's first tracked Armored Personnel Carrier.
Description: The BMP-1 is a tracked, amphibious, fully enclosed armored personnel carrier armed with a 73mm smoothbore cannon, one 7.62mm coaxial machine gun and the AT-3 SAGGER antitank guided missile (ATGM). The BMP-1 represents a significant improvement over the wheeled BTR series in all aspects, including mobility, firepower, and survivability. Fielded in 1966, the BMP-1 has been modified to serve as a common chassis for a number of additional vehicle types. No longer in production, the BMP-1 has been surpassed by the BMP-2 and 3 in both service in the Russian army as well as export abroad.
General Characteristics, BMP-1 Armored Personnel Carrier
Transmission:
Manual with five forward gears and one reverse
Engine:
6 cylinder diesel engine producing 290 horsepower
Length:
22 feet (6.7 meters)
Width:
9 feet (2.74 meters)
Height:
7 feet (2.13 meters)
Combat Weight:
14 tons
Cruising Range:
372 miles (600 kilometers)
Speed:
Maximum: 40 mph (65 kph), or 45 mph (70 kph) for limited periods
Cross Country: 28 mph (45 kph)
Obstacle Crossing:
Trench: 8.2 feet (2.5 meters)
Slope: 31 degrees
Crew:
Three: driver, gunner and commander (who serves as squad leader when the the infantry squad dismounts)
Armament:
Main: 73mm 2A20 smoothbore cannon
Secondary: One AT-3 SAGGER ATGM, one 7.62mm PKT coaxial machine gun
Ammunition:
40 73mm cannon rounds (fin stabilized HEAT only)
2,000 7.62mm machine gun rounds
Introduction Date:
1966
Variants:
BMP-A: Also known as the Model 1966, this was the original version of the BMP. It has a shorter bow compared to its successor, the BMP-1 and does not have a Nuclear, Biological, Chemical (NBC) protection system.
BMP-1: Also known as the Model 1976 this was the base production model from which all variants were designed.
BMP-1K: The command variant of the BMP-1. It differed from the BMP-1 in that it carried additional communications equipment and had the rifle firing ports welded shut. In addition the troop compartment was redesigned to accommodate folding tables and map charts. Can be used as a battalion level command vehicle.
BMP-1P: The AT-3 SAGGER ATGM has been replaced by the AT-4 SPIGOT ATGM. Additionally, smoke grenade launchers have been mounted on the turret rear.
BMP-1PK: Command variant of the BMP-1P. Similar to the BMP-1K, it has additional communications equipment and has been modified to serve as a command vehicle. BMP-R: Also known as the BRM, BRM-1 and BMP M1976, this variant serves as a cavalry recon vehicle. The turret is larger and has had ATGM launcher removed. The back deck of the hull has been redesigned with two smaller hatches rather than the four large ones found on the BMP-1.
BRM-1K: Also known as the BMP M1976/2 this variant is based off of the BRM-1 with the PSNR-5K (NATO designation TALL MIKE) battlefield surveillance radar mounted in the rear section of the turret. Also included in the vehicle's sensor package are the DKRM-1 laser rangefinder, ARRS-1 location device, IMP mine detector and 1PN33B night vision devices. For navigation the BRM-1K uses the TNA-1, IG11N gyro-compass and the 1T25 survey device.
BMP KShM: Also known as the BMP M1978 it is a heavily modified BMP-1K with additional communications gear and a telescoping radio antenna for increased transmission range.
BMP-SON: Also known as the PRP-3, this is a BMP-1 modified to serve as an artillery reconnaissance and fire support vehicle. The turret has been redesigned to include two forward opening crew hatches equipped with observation periscopes as well as a large spotting optics. A large telescoping optical device is mounted on the left rear corner of the turret. The 73mm gun has been removed and replaced by a 7.62mm machine gun. Mounted on the rear of the vehicle is the SMALL FRED (NATO designation) battlefield surveillance radar. As with the command variants, the BMP-SON has an augmented communications package. The BMP-SON has a crew of 5.
PRP-4: This is essentially an upgraded and improved version of the PRP-3 (BMP-SON). Externally, the only difference is an additional fairing on the right side of the turret.
IRM: Amphibious Engineer Reconnaissance Vehicle. Based on the BMP-1, it uses the BMP-1 engine and suspension in a new hull design. Designed to perform specialized engineer missions such as mine detection and river bottom reconnaissance the IRM has two retractable mine detection devices mounted low on the bow and rapidly deployable snorkel. The IRM is propelled through the water via two shrouded propellers.
BMP-PPO: A heavily modified BMP-1 designed to serve as a mobile training center. The turret has been removed and eight roof mounted cupolas each equipped with a TNPO-170 and type MK-4 observation device, have been installed for trainees under instruction.
OT-90: Czechoslovakian version of the BMP-1. The turret has been replaced with the standard Czechoslovakian APC turret, equipped with a 14.5mm machine gun and a 7.62mm machine gun, found on the OT-64 8x8 wheeled APC.
BVP-1: Czechoslovakian produced BMP-1.
DP-90: Maintenance/recovery version of the OT-90.
MP-31: Air defense version of the BMP-KShM mobile command post.
MU-90: Mine laying version of the OT-90. The turret has been removed and the opening covered by sheet steel.
SVO: Mine clearing version of the BMP-1. The turret has been removed and a hedgehog type launcher has been installed in the troop compartment.
VPV: Maintenance/recovery version of the BMP-1. The turret and troop hatches have been removed and a crane has been installed on the roof of the troop compartment.
VP-90: Reconnaissance version of the OT-90. Similar to the BMP-R in all other respects.
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 10:15pm
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BMP-3 APC
Function: Soviet Union's latest tracked Armored Personnel Carrier.
Description: The BMP-3 is, in effect, a light tank capable of transporting an infantry squad. Representing a complete departure from the previous BMP-1/2 designs, the BMP-3 mounts a 100mm cannon, 30mm cannon, a cannon launched anti-tank guided missile and a 7.62mm machine gun. In addition, the automotive characteristics have been improved, with the introduction of a 500 horsepower diesel engine, giving the 18 ton vehicle performance similar to the American Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV). The hull of the BMP-3 is more similar to the new BMD-3 airborne personnel carrier, with the low, flat turret mounted in the center of the hull. As with the BMP-1/2, the BMP-3 is fully amphibious, relying on two rear mounted water jets for propulsion. The BMP-3 also incorperates another two 7.62mm machine guns mounted in the bow of the hull.
General Characteristics, BMP-3 Armored Personnel Carrier
Transmission:
Automatic
Engine:
Diesel producing 500 horsepower
Length:
22 feet (6.7 meters)
Width:
10.3 feet (3.15 meters)
Height:
8.03 feet (2.45 meters)
Combat Weight:
18.7 tons
Cruising Range:
372 miles (600 kilometers)
Speed:
Maximum: 44 mph (70 kph)
Cross Country: 28 mph (45 kph)
Obstacle Crossing:
Trench: 8.2 feet (2.5 meters)
Slope: 31 degrees
Crew:
Three: driver, gunner and commander (who serves as squad leader when the the infantry squad dismounts)
Armament:
Main: 100mm rifled cannon 2A70
Secondary: One 30mm 2A42 cannon, one AT-10 STABBER (NATO designation), one 7.62mm PKT coaxial machine gun, two 7.62mm PKT bow mounted machine guns (left and right sides)
Ammunition:
30 100mm HE cannon rounds
500 30mm cannon rounds (a variable mix of high explosive and armor piercing)
2,000 7.62mm machine gun rounds
Eight AT-10 STABBER (NATO designation) ATGM rounds
Introduction Date:
1990
Variants:
BMP-3F: BMP-3 modified for use with naval Infantry.
BMP-3 M1995: Dedicated ATGM platform armed with the AT-14. The 9P157 is similar but designed to fire the AT-15 ATGM.
BMP-3K: The command variant of the BMP-2 with additional communications equipment. In addition, the bow machine guns have been removed and a PSNR-5K (NATO designation TALL MIKE) battlefield surveillance radar has been installed.
BREhM-L: Armored Recovery Vehicle variant.
BRM-3K: Recon variant of the BMP-3. Similar to the BRM-1K, the BRM-3K incorperates the PSNR-5K (NATO designation TALL MIKE) battlefield surveillance radar. The bow machine guns have been removed as well as all turret weapons have been removed except for the 30mm cannon.
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 10:15pm
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BTR-70 APC
Function: Soviet 1970-era wheeled APC.
Background: Introduced in 1978 as a replacement to the BTR-60, The BTR-70 is very similar externally to the older vehicle, as many if the improvements made to the vehicle are internal.
The BTR-70 uses the standard Warsaw Pact APC weapons turret equipped with one KPV 14.5mm machine gun and one PKT 7.62mm machine gun. As with the BTR-60, power is supplied to all eight wheels by means of a unique twin engine/transmission arrangement. The BTR-70's power plants, however, have been upgraded to two 120hp gasoline engines. The gearbox arrangement, however, remains unchanged; one supplies power to the 1st and 3rd axles and the other supplies power to the 2nd and 4th axles.
The BTR-70 is also fully amphibious and does not require any preparation time. Steering, both on land and in the water, is provided by the forward two axles, which are also power assisted. Water propulsion is provided by a single rear mounted water jet.
Though replaced by the BTR-80 in the early eighties, the BTR-70 continues to serve in many armies world-wide, including most former Warsaw Pact as well as many Middle Eastern, African, and Asian countries.
Description: The BTR-70 an all-wheeled 8x8 fully amphibious armored personnel carrier. The boat shaped vehicle is divided up into three sections: crew compartment, personnel compartment, and engine compartment. In the case of the BTR-70 the hull has been lengthened somewhat and the axles now have a paired appearance, with a distinctive gap between the second and third axles.
The BTR-70 may be readily distinguished from the 60 and 80 series by the presence of a single, large, curved "caterpillar" insulated exhaust located on either side of the hull rear. In addition the amphibious operations trim vane has been moved from underneath the nose of the vehicle, BTR-60 series, to on top of the nose, just forward of the driver's station.
The BTR-70 is equipped with the standard Warsaw Pact APC turret. The small, one man turret is mounted over the second axle and contains one KPV 14.5mm machine gun and one PKT 7.62mm machine gun.
The personnel compartment can be accessed by a triangular doorway located between the second and third axles. The three infantry mounting steps and the three additional mounting rails located on the hull above the steps, present on the BTR-60, have been eleminated. The large personnel compartment access hatches located on each side of the hull have also been eliminated and replaced with three firing ports.
General Characteristics, BTR-70 Armored Personnel Carrier
Manufacturers:
Soviet Union
Transmission:
2x manual
Engine:
2x 120hp V-8 gasoline
Length:
25.51 feet (7.85 meters)
Width:
9.1 feet (2.80 meters)
Height:
7.96 feet (2.45 meters)
Combat Weight:
11.5 tons
Cruising Range:
450 kilometers
Speed:
Maximum: 50mph ( 80kph)
Off-road: 38mph (60kph)
Fording:
Fully amphibious without preparation
Crew:
2; driver, gunner-commander
8 passengers
Armament:
Main:
One 14.5mm KPV HMG
Secondary:
One 7.62mm PKT-T MG
Introduction Date:
1978
Variants:
BTR-70 M1986/1: Improved version of the Basic BTR-70.
BTR-70Kh: Chemical recon variant. Equipped with a proximity fuse jammer. This device is designed to prematurely detonate proximity fused artillery rounds.
BTR-70MS: Communications support variant.
BTR-70KShM: Mobile command post variant.
BREM: Armored Recovery Vehicle variant.
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 10:15pm
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T-62 MBT
Function: Soviet front line MBT during the 1960s.
Background: The T-62 was introduced in 1961 to replace the T-55 as a Soviet front line main battle tank. In many respects, the T-62 represents a product improvement upgrade of the T-55; the T-62 uses the same 580hp V-12 diesel engine, the track, suspension, and drive train arrangement are essentially the same. The initial-run T-62 also shared the same NBC protection system and active infrared gunner's sight as the T-55. The T-62 uses the same fording components as the T-55 and is capable of fording to a depth of 1.4m without modification and to 5.5m with the snorkel kit. The T-62 is capable of producing onboard smoke by injecting vaporized diesel fuel directly onto the engine exhaust.
The T-62's real improvement lay in its 115mm smoothbore, high velocity cannon. With a muzzle velocity of over 1,600m/s, the T-62 has a nearly flat trajectory through its entire effective range, making the gun very accurate. Later production models incorporate a true NBC filtration/over-pressurization system, thus eliminating the need for the crew to wear protective masks while inside the tank, as well as a passive IR gunner's sight which eliminated the need for active infrared search lights which would reveal the location of the illuminating tank.
Although the Soviet Union ceased production of the T-62 in 1975, the T-62 still remains in front-line service with a number of countries world-wide.
Description: The T-62 is similar in appearance to the T-55. The T-62 uses the same "live track" design as the T-55. There are 5 large cast road wheels, with a distinctive gap between the third and fourth and the fourth and fifth road wheels. The track is all steel, the idler wheel is to the front, the drive sprocket is to the rear and there are no return rollers.
The turret is more egg or pear-shaped than dome-shaped, as with the T-55, and the attached infantry hand rails, if present, are both curved, as opposed to the straight and curved rails on the T-55.
The main IR searchlight is mounted on top of the turret, to the right of the main gun, as with the T-55, with one secondary searchlight mounted below the main light to the right of the gun and one mounted on the commander's cupola on the left side of the turret.
The 115mm smoothbore cannon uses the same trunion arrangement as with the T-55, substituting an armored mantlet for a canvas weather-resistant cover. The cannon has a bore evacuator mounted one third of the way down the gun tube and may be equipped with a thermal sleeve.
The T-62 employs the same coaxial PKT-T 7.62mm machine gun as the T-55 and is mounted to the right of the main gun. The 12.7mm DShK anti-aircraft machine gun is mounted at the loader's station.
As with the T-55, the T-62 does not use armored fuel cells. Instead, the fuel is stored in exposed tanks on the track fenders. The engine exhaust is expelled out the left rear side of the hull. Auxiliary fuel tanks may be attached to the rear of the hull.
General Characteristics, T-62 Main Battle Tank
Manufacturer:
Soviet Union
Transmission:
Automatic
Engine:
620hp liquid cooled V-12 diesel
Length. Gun Forward:
21.55 feet (6.63 meters)
Width:
11.44 feet (3.52 meters)
Height:
7.8 feet (2.4 meters)
Combat Weight:
41.5 tons
Cruising Range:
450 kilometers (650 kilometers with additional fuel tanks)
Speed:
Maximum: 28 mph (45 kph)
Fording:
Without Preparation:
4.55 feet (1.4 meters)
With Snorkel:
17.88 feet (5.5 meters)
Crew:
Four (Loader, driver, gunner, Tank Commander)
Armament:
Main:
115-mm smoothbore gun, 2A20
AT-10 Sheksna Cannon launched ATGM
Secondary:
One 12.7mm DShK anti-aircraft machine gun (loader's station)
One 7.62mm PKT-T coaxial machine gun
Ammunition:
40 main gun rounds, typically 12 HVAPFSDS rounds, 6 HEAT rounds, and 22 HE rounds
Sensors:
Drozd APS (T-62D)
Introduction Date:
1961
Variants:
T-62A: First production model of the T-62. Incorporates the 12.7-mm DShK anti-aircraft machine gun, which is mounted at the loader's station, and an improved two-axis gun stabilization system that gives the gunner limited a shoot-on-the-move capability.
T-62K: Command variant. In addition to having increased radio capabilities, the "K" model also possesses an inertial land navigation system. Using a gyroscopic compass and distance calculator this navigation system allows the commander to plot his location from a known point as well as display direction and distance to a plotted point.
T-62M: The T-62M is essentially an "A" model upgraded to the T-55M standard. Added the Soviet made Volna fire control system (dual-axis stabilization, laser range finder) as well as a cannon launched ATGM (AT-10 Sheksna.) Upgrades in armor protection include the 180o "bra" armor belt on the front half of the turret, track side skirts, and smoke grenade launchers.
T-62M1: "M" model without the through cannon ATGM capability. "-1" variants have replaced their standard power plant with the 780hp V-46 12 cylinder diesel engine from T-72 MBT.
T-62D: Variant with the Drozd APS in place of Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA.) Developed by the Soviet Union in 1977, the Drozd system was designed as an active defense against ATGMs and anti-tank grenades. The system was based on a number of millimeter-wave radar transceivers situated around the turret. The radar sensors would detect the approach of an ATGM and fire off short-ranged fragmentation rockets that were intended to shred the incoming missile. To prevent accidental discharge, the system was equipped with a filter to react only to objects flying at characteristic ATGM speeds. The four-barreled launchers were located on the forward part of the turret and only provided protection for the front 60? portion of the turret. To change the covered arc of coverage the crew would have to rotate the turret and orient the coverage cone on the threat.
T-62MK: Command variant of the T-62M.
T-62MV: "M" variant with ERA (either Kontakt or Kontakt-5 second generation) in place of the bra armor.
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 10:15pm
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BTR-60 APC
Function: Soviet 1950 era wheeled APC.
Background: Introduced in 1963 as a replacement for the fully tracked BTR-50, the BTR-60 represents the first of a series of 8x8 wheeled APC that are still in production in the former Soviet Union. In terms of numbers produced, the BTR-60 was the most important vehicle in the Soviet Army and was issued to the Soviet naval Infantry. In addition, the BTR-60 has been supplied to most Warsaw Pact countries in addition to North Korea. The BTR-60 has also been manufactured in Czechoslovakia and Poland.
Initial BTR-60s were equipped with a single 12.7mm DShK machine gun and two PKT 7.62mm machineguns, all mounted forward of the personnel compartment. Later models used the standard Warsaw Pact APC weapons turret equipped with one KPV 14.5mm machine gun and one PKT 7.62mm machine gun. Power is supplied to all eight wheels by means of a unique twin engine/transmission arrangement. The BTR-60 uses two V-8 90hp gasoline engines and two separate transmissions; one supplies power to the 1st and 3rd axles and the other supplies power to the 2nd and 4th axles.
The BTR-60 is fully amphibious and does not require any preparation time. Steering, both on land and in the water, is provided by the forward two axles, which are also power assisted. Water propulsion is provided by a single rear mounted water jet.
Although the BTR-70 began to replace the BTR-60 in 1978, the BTR-60 has never been retired, and continues to serve in Russian reserve formations and numerous countries world-wide.
Description: The BTR-60 an all-wheeled 8x8 fully amphibious armored personnel carrier. The boat shaped vehicle is divided up into three sections: crew compartment, personnel compartment, and engine compartment. In early versions the personnel compartment is open topped; in later versions the entire vehicle is fully enclosed. The BTR-60 may be readily distinguished from the later 70/80/90 series by the presence of a single "automotive-type" muffler exhaust located on either side of the hull rear.
The BTR-60 "P" and "PA" variants are equipped with a single 12.7mm DShK machine gun and two PKT 7.62mm machineguns. These MGs are mounted forward of the personnel compartment, and require the gunners to be exposed while firing. Because of the size of the gunner's position, only two of the three MGs can be manned at any given time. The "PB" model is equipped with a small, one man, turret, mounted over the second axle that contains one KPV 14.5mm machine gun and one PKT 7.62mm machine gun.
In all models, the personnel compartment can only be accessed from the roof of the carrier. There are three infantry mounting steps on each side of the vehicle, mounted between the road wheels, and three additional mounting rails located on the hull above the steps. There is a large personnel compartment access hatch located on each side of the hull.
General Characteristics, BTR-60 Armored Personnel Carrier
Manufacturers:
Soviet Union, Czechoslovakia, and Poland.
Transmission:
2x manual
Engine:
2x 90hp V-8 gasoline
Length:
23.47 feet (7.22 meters)
Width:
9.17 feet (2.82 meters)
Height:
6.7 feet (2.06 meters)
Combat Weight:
10.1 tons
Cruising Range:
500 kilometers
Speed:
Maximum: 50mph ( 80kph)
Off-road: 38mph (60kph)
Fording:
Fully amphibious without preparation
Crew:
Two (driver, gunner-commander)
12 passengers
Armament:
Main:
One 12.7mm DShK HMG (BTR-60P)
One 14.5mm KPV HMG (BTR-60PB)
Secondary:
Two7.62mm PKT-T MG (BTR-60P)
One 7.62mm PKT-T MG (BTR-60PB)
Introduction Date:
1961
Variants:
BTR-60P: Initial production model. The BTR-60P was open topped and armed with a single 12.7mm DShK machine gun.
BTR-60PA: Modified "P" model. Incorporates overhead cover for the personnel compartment. Because of space restrictions in the gunner's hatch, no more than two of the weapons can be manned at any given time.
BTR-60PB: Most widely fielded varient. Has increased overhead protection for passengers and crew and incorporates the standard Warsaw Pact APC weapons turret. This one-man turret houses one KPV 14.5mm machine gun and one PKT 7.62mm machine gun.
BTR-60PBK: Command variant with additional communications equipment.
BTR-60 PU: Armored command vehicle (ACV) variant for battalion level. The "PU" is open-topped and can be identified by its canvas roof, additional communication equipment and lack of weapons turret. The "PU" also has an easily recognizable dipole antenna that runs nearly all around the top of the vehicle.
BTR-60 PU-12 and -12M: "U" and "PU" variants used by air defense controllers and configured for ground to air communication.
BTR-60 R-975: Forward Air Control Vehicle (FACV). A modified BTR-60PB with sighting optics and laser designator installed in the turret in place of the weapons. Can also be identified by the large portable generator mounted on the rear of the vehicle.
MTP-2: Armored recovery vehicle.
R-145BM: ACV used ad Brigade level. Has increased radio range and communications capabilities.
ACRV 1V18: Artillery command and reconnaissance vehicle. The 1V18 is a command and observation vehicle (COP) while the 1V19 variant serves as an artillery fire direction center (FDC).
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 10:15pm
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T-55 MBT
Function: Soviet front line MBT during the 1950s.
Background: Introduced in 1949, the T-54/55 is in service with more countries world-wide and in greater numbers than any other tank manufactured since World War II. The first new tank of the post-World War II Soviet Union, the T-54/55 can trace its lineage back to the IS series Stalin heavy tanks and the revolutionary T-34 medium tanks.
The T-54 entered production in the Soviet Union in 1947, and was fielded with Soviet ground forces in 1949. By 1958, the T-54 had undergone a number of improvements and modifications and was re-designated the T-55. The T-55 represents an evolution of the T-54 rather than a completely new design.
The T-55 was produced by the Soviet Union through 1981. In addition, the T-55 was also produced in China (where it was designated the Type 59), Czechoslovakia, and Poland. The T-55 is capable of fording to a depth of 1.4m without modification and to 5.5m with the addition of a snorkel kit. The T-55 is capable of producing onboard smoke by injecting vaporized diesel fuel directly onto the engine exhaust.
Though time and technology have rendered the T-55 obsolete as a front-line main battle tank, large numbers of 54/55s remain in service with militaries world-wide. The T-55 saw service in Hungary in 1956, Czechoslovakia in 1968, and in Syria in 1970. In addition, it was the main battle tank used by the Arab forces during the 1967 and 1973 Arab-Israeli wars. During the 1970s the T-54/55 also saw extensive use during the border wars in Africa. Since so many T-54/55s remain in service, many countries, such as Israel, Pakistan, and India offer upgrade packages to rebuild existing tanks using more modern, and in many cases Western, fire control components, thus extending their usable life even further.
There are currently seven production models of the T-54/55, and more than a dozen variants.
Description: The T-54/55 tank follows a conventional layout, with a dome-shaped turret centrally located on the hull and the engine mounted in the rear. The 54/55 has a crew of four; driver (located in the left hand side of the hull, forward of the turret) loader (right hand side of the turret) tank commander and gunner (both located on the left side of the turret.
The T-54/55 can be identified by the distinct gap between the first and second of its five large cast road wheels. The 54/55 uses steel track (this may be substituted for padded track in modified versions), a torsion bar "live track" suspension with no return rollers and a rear mounted drive sprocket. The T-55 does not use armored fuel cells. Instead, the fuel is stored in exposed tanks on the track fenders. The engine exhaust is expelled out the left rear side of the hull.
The 100mm cannon is centrally mounted in the turret. The cannon trunions are not protected by an armored mantlet, but rather a canvas sleeve that protects the mechanism from the elements. There is no fume extractor on the T-54, while the T-55 has a bore evacuator mounted on the muzzle of the gun.
There are two hatches on the top of the turret (loader's and tank commanders.) Both hatches open forward. In the T-54 the 12.7mm DShK AA MG is mounted in the commander's station; on the T-55 ("A" version and beyond) the machine gun is located in the loader's position.
Two infantry support rails (one straight, one curved) are affixed to the turret sides. These may be removed to accommodate ERA, APS or applique armor packages. If present the main IR searchlight will be mounted on top of the turret (to the left of the gun.) An additional searchlight may be mounted on the commander's hatch. If present, the laser rangefinder will be mounted externally on the top of the main gun itself.
Because the T-55 does not use synchronized optics for the main gun, another identifying characteristic of the T-55 is the large sighting oval on the left hand side of the turret next to the gun mantlet. The aperture on the right hand side of the turret is the firing port for the coaxial PKT-T machine gun.
General Characteristics, T-55 Main Battle Tank
Manufacturers:
Soviet Union, Czechoslovakia, and Poland
Transmission:
Automatic
Engine:
580hp liquid cooled V-12 diesel
Length. Gun Forward:
20.15 feet (6.20 meters)
Width:
11.7 feet (3.60 meters)
Height:
7.54 feet (2.32 meters)
Combat Weight:
40.5 tons
Cruising Range:
500 kilometers (715 kilometers with additional fuel tanks)
Speed:
Maximum: 31 mph (50 kph)
Off road: 22 mph (35 kph)
Fording:
Without Preparation:
54.5 feet (1.4 meters)
With Snorkel:
17.9 feet (5.5 meters)
Crew:
Four (Loader, driver, gunner, tank commander)
Armament:
Main:
100mm rifled gun, D-10T2S
AT-10 Sheksna Cannon launched ATGM
Secondary:
One 12.7mm DShK anti-aircraft machine gun (loader's station.)
One 7.62mm PKT-T coaxial machine gun
Ammunition:
43 main gun rounds.
Sensors:
Drozd APS (T-55AMD, T-55AD Drozd)
Introduction Date:
1949
Variants:
T-54A: The initial production model of the T-54 tank. It has a bore evacuator at the end of the barrel for the 100mm gun, a stabilization system for the main gun (in the vertical plane only) and deep fording equipment. The turret is also equipped with a coaxially mounted PKT-T 7.62mm machine gun, and the tank commander's station is equipped with a 12.7mm DShK anti-aircraft machine gun.
T-54AK: Command tank variant of the T-54. The AK variant is a T-54A with long-range radio transmitting capability. The Polish model is the T-54AD.
T-54B: Equipped with active infra-red sights, giving the tank a limited night time fighting ability.
T-55: Essentially an upgraded T-54. The T-55 incorporates a more powerful water-cooled V-12 diesel engine. The cruising range has also been increased from 400km to 500km (range can be increased to 715km with the addition of auxiliary fuel tanks mounted on the rear of the hull.) The T-55 uses a new turret design, which incorporates an improve ventilation design and hatch design. The initial production T-55 did not have the 12.7mm DShK AA MG.
T-55A: Incorporates a new anti-radiation lining in the turret as well as a Nuclear Biological Chemical (NBC) air filtration system. The T-55A Model 1970 saw the re-introduction of the 12.7mm DShK AA MG, though it is now mounted at the loader's station.
T-55M: Added the Soviet made Volna fire control system (dual axis stabilization, laser range finder) as well as a cannon launched ATGM (AT-10 Sheksna.) Upgrades in armor protection included the addition of side skirts on the track, applique armor, as well as smoke grenade launchers. T-54s upgraded to the "M" standard were designated the T-54M
T-55AM: Adds an armor band around the front of turret for 180? coverage (similar to the T-72B "Dolly Parton" variant.)
T-55AMV: Substitutes Explosive Reactive Armor for the "bra" armor belt of the "AM" variant. Some variants have replaced the standard T-55 V-12 diesel with the 780hp V-46 12 cylinder diesel engine from T-72 MBT.
T-55AM2B: Czech version of T-55AMV with Czech built Kladivo fire control system.
T-55AM2: Variant of the T-55AM that incorporates all of the upgrades of the "M" and "AM" except for the Volna fire control system and cannon launched AT-10 ATGM.
T-55AM2P: Polish version of T-55AMV. Equipped with the Polish built Merida fire control system.
T-55AMD: T-55AMV incorporating the Drozd Active Protection System (APS) instead of ERA. Developed by the Soviet Union in 1977, the Drozd system was designed as an active defense against ATGMs and anti-tank grenades. The system was based on a number of millimeter-wave radar transceivers situated around the turret. The radar sensors would detect the approach of an ATGM and fire off short-ranged fragmentation rockets that were intended to shred the incoming missile. To prevent accidental discharge, the system was equipped with a filter to react only to objects flying at characteristic ATGM speeds. The four-barreled launchers were located on the forward part of the turret and only provided protection for the front 60? portion of the turret. To change the covered arc of coverage the crew would have to rotate the turret and orient the coverage cone on the threat.
T-55AD Drozd: Naval Infantry T-55A variant equipped with Drozd but not the Volna fire control system or ERA.
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 10:15pm
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T-72 MBT
Function: Soviet and Warsaw Pact Cold War main battle tank (MBT).
Description: Where the T-64 was never exported from the Soviet Union the T-72 was a parallel design intended for distribution throughout the Soviet Bloc as well as exported through arms sales to other nations. Similar to the T-64, the T-72 has the low, round turret made from cast steel as well as the 2A46M 125mm smoothbore cannon, which, at the time, was the largest mounted on an MBT. In addition, the T-72 mounts a 12.7mm antiaircraft machine gun in the commander's station and a single 7.62mm machine-gun coaxial to the main gun. Though outclassed by the T-80 and T-90 tanks which followed it, the T-72 is currently still in service with the Russian army as well as being produced for export.
General Characteristics, T-72 Main Battle Tank
Manufacturer:
Malyshev HMB Plant, Kharkov, Ukraine
UKBM Nizhny Tagil, Russian Federation
Transmission:
Automatic
Engine:
V-12 air cooled diesel producing 840 horsepower
Length. Gun Forward:
31.70 feet (9.66 meters)
Width:
11.75 feet (3.58 meters)
Height:
7.20 feet (2.19 meters)
Combat Weight:
44.5 metric tons
Cruising Range:
310 miles (500 kilometers); 403 miles (650 km) with additional fuel tanks
Speed:
Maximum: 37 mph (60 kph)
Cross Country: 21 mph (35 kph)
Obstacle Crossing:
Trench: 2.85 meters
Slope: 32 degrees
Fording:
Without preparation: 3.9 feet (1.2 meters)
With Snorkel: 16.5 feet (5 meters)
Crew:
A three-man crew composed of a driver, gunner, and tank commander
Armament:
Main: 125mm 2A46M main gun
Secondary: One 12.7mm NSV antiaircraft machine gun (commander's station); one 7.62mm PKT coaxial machine gun; 9K120 Svir (NATO designation AT-11 SNIPER) cannon launched, laser guided Anti Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) (T-72S, SK, BM)
Ammunition:
45 125mm cannon rounds (combination of kinetic energy (SABOT), High Explosive Anti Tank (HEAT) shaped charge, High Explosive-Fragmentation (HE-FRAG), cannon launched AT-11 ATGM)
300 12.7mm machine gun rounds
2,000 7.62mm machine gun rounds
Introduction Date:
1971
Variants:
T-72: Original production version from which all variants are derived. Fielded in 1971, equipped with 780 horsepower diesel V-12 engine. Tank is equipped with a 7.62mm PKT machine gun coaxially mounted on the right side of the cannon and a 12.7mm NSV machine gun mounted in the commander's cupola.
T-72A: Basic Russian model. Differs from basic T-72 in that it incorporates a laser rangefinder, track sideskirts, additional armor on the turret top and front, smoke grenade launchers and is slightly heavier. Went out of production in 1985.
T-72AV: A model equipped with first generation explosive reactive armor.
T-72B: Entered production in 1985. Incorporates increased frontal armor in the turret. Known in the U.S. as the "Dolly Parton" version. Additionally, engine output is improved to 840 horsepower. The T-72BK is the command variant of the T-72B with additional communications equipment.
T-72BV: T-72B model equipped with first generation ERA.
T-72BM: T-72 B model with Kontakt-5 second generation explosive reactive armor. All T-72s produced for export are currently being built to this standard.
T-72M: Polish-Czechoslovakian version of the basic T-72 tank. The T-72M differs from the T-72 in that the coincident rangefinder has been replaced with a laser rangefinder. Went out of production in 1985.
T-72M1: Export version of the T-72M. Equivalent to the Soviet built T-72A. Produced in Poland and Czechoslovakia. Went out of production in 1985.
T-72M1V: M1 model equipped with reactive armor. Equivalent to the T-72AV.
T-72S: T-72A model upgraded to be on comparable with the T-72BM though lacking increased turret armor. May be equipped with first generation ERA. T-72SK is the command variant with additional communications equipment.
T-72CZ: Czechoslovakian M1 models upgraded with western automotive, fire control and weapon system components.
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David
Tue January 27, 2004 12:25am
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Navy Recruiting Poster
"These Men Have COME ACROSS
They Are at the Front NOW"
World War I Navy recruiting poster, by artist P.N. Leyendecker.
The artwork features the crew of a 4"/50 gun.
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