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Type 99A Main Battle Tank

Type 99A Main Battle Tank

Manufacturer: NORINCO
Category: Tanks & Armored Vehicles
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Main Gun Caliber 125 mm
Engine Power 1,500 hp
Maximum Speed 80 km/h
Armor Type Composite + Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA)

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Vehicle Name	Type 99A (ZTZ-99A)
Type / Role	Main Battle Tank (MBT)
Manufacturer	NORINCO
Country of Origin	China
In Service	Yes
Year Introduced	2011
Unit Cost	USD 8–9 million (estimated)
Crew	3 (Commander, Gunner, Driver)

2. Dimensions & Weight

Length (Gun Forward)	11.0 m
Width	3.7 m
Height	2.3 m
Weight	58 tons
Ground Clearance	0.45 m
Chassis Material	Composite Armor / Steel Base

3. Performance

Engine Type	Turbocharged Diesel Engine
Engine Power	1,500 hp
Power-to-Weight Ratio	25.8 hp/ton
Transmission	Automatic
Maximum Speed (Road)	80 km/h
Maximum Speed (Off-Road)	55 km/h
Operational Range	500 km
Suspension Type	Torsion Bar

4. Armament

Main Gun	125 mm ZPT-98 Smoothbore Cannon
Ammunition Capacity	42 rounds
Secondary Armament	1 × 12.7mm MG, 1 × 7.62mm MG
Gun Elevation/Depression	+20° / -8°
Fire Control System	Digital FCS with Laser Rangefinder
Stabilization	Dual-Axis
Rate of Fire	8–10 rounds per minute

5. Protection & Armor

Armor Type	Composite + ERA
Reactive Armor	Modular FY-series ERA
Active Protection System (APS)	JD-3 Laser Defense / Hard-Kill APS
NBC Protection	Yes
Smoke Grenade Launchers	2 × 6-barrel
Fire Suppression System	Automatic
Mine Protection	Reinforced Belly Armor

6. Mobility & Capability

Maximum Gradient	60%
Side Slope	40%
Trench Crossing	2.7 m
Vertical Obstacle	1.1 m
Fording Depth	1.4 m (2 m with prep)
Turning Radius	Neutral Turn
Amphibious Capability	No

7. Sensors & Electronics

Fire Control Computer	Yes
Thermal Imaging	Commander & Gunner
Night Vision	Infrared / NVG
Laser Rangefinder	Yes
Ballistic Computer	Yes
Communication System	Digital Radio Network
Battlefield Management System	Yes

8. Operational Info

Service Branch	PLA Ground Force
Primary Operator	China
Combat Experience	Training / Military Exercises
Upgrade Packages	Type 99A2 (Planned)
Export Status	Restricted
Production Status	Active

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

Maintenance Efficiency 8 / 10
Technology 8 / 10
Performance 8 / 10
Reliability & Maintenance 8 / 10

PROS

Advanced digital fire control and targeting system
High mobility with 1,500 hp powerplant
Strong layered armor with ERA and APS integration
Capable of firing guided missiles from main gun
Superior crew protection and situational awareness

CONS

Limited combat experience outside exercises
Heavy weight reduces logistical flexibility
High maintenance and fuel demands
Network systems depend on secure PLA infrastructure
Limited export availability

Type 99A Main Battle Tank: China’s Digital Armor Giant

The Type 99A, also known as ZTZ-99A, represents the pinnacle of China’s armored warfare technology. Developed by China North Industries Group Corporation (NORINCO), this advanced main battle tank (MBT) serves as the backbone of the People’s Liberation Army Ground Force (PLAGF). Entering service in 2011, the Type 99A is designed to rival Western mainstays like the U.S. M1A2 Abrams and Germany’s Leopard 2A7, showcasing China’s progress in digital combat systems and armor innovation.

Cutting-Edge Design and Capabilities

The Type 99A is equipped with a 125mm ZPT-98 smoothbore cannon, capable of firing APFSDS, HEAT, and anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) with precision. A digital fire control system, laser rangefinder, and thermal imaging sights enable all-weather, day-night operation. The tank is powered by a 1,500 hp turbocharged diesel engine, giving it a top speed of 80 km/h on-road and excellent maneuverability across difficult terrain.

Protection is a central feature—its modular composite and explosive reactive armor (ERA) combined with the JD-3 laser defense system and active protection suite (APS) provide multi-layer defense against projectiles and missiles.

A notable success story for the Type 99A came during the Shaanxi military exercises, where it demonstrated superior long-range targeting and networked battlefield coordination compared to older PLA models, confirming its role as the spearhead of China’s modern armored divisions.

Type 99A Price in US

While the Type 99A is not available for export, defense analysts estimate its unit cost equivalent at around USD 8–9 million, comparable to Western main battle tanks in capability and price.

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