VT-4 Main Battle Tank

Full Specifications

VT-4 Chinese Export Main Battle Tank

The VT-4, also known as MBT-3000, is a third-generation main battle tank developed by China specifically for the export market. It represents a modern, cost-effective armored platform combining firepower, mobility, and protection features derived from Chinese domestic designs such as elements of the Type 99 series and the earlier VT-1/Al-Khalid lineage. Designed for operators seeking advanced capabilities without the higher price tags of Western tanks, the VT-4 has entered service with several nations and seen limited combat use.

Manufacturer

China North Industries Corporation (Norinco) designed and manufactures the VT-4. Production involves collaboration with facilities such as the First Inner Mongolia Machinery Factory. Pakistan’s Heavy Industries Taxila has also been involved in local assembly and a variant designated Haider. The tank was developed for overseas customers rather than People’s Liberation Army service and entered production around 2017.

Speed and Range

Powered by a rear-mounted VT/E1 V12 turbocharged diesel engine rated at approximately 1,200–1,300 hp, the VT-4 achieves a maximum road speed of 70 km/h (about 43 mph) and roughly 40–50 km/h off-road. Its operational range is 500 km on internal fuel. The automatic transmission (typically 6 forward/2 reverse) and torsion-bar suspension support cross-country mobility, including a 60% gradient, 40% side slope, 2.7 m trench crossing, and fording up to about 1.2 m (deeper with preparation).

Cost/Price

Estimated unit cost is approximately $4.9 million, though export contract prices have ranged higher depending on configuration, training, and support packages (some reported near $5–6 million). This pricing positions the VT-4 as a competitive alternative to more expensive Western or Russian main battle tanks.

The VT-4 carries a three-person crew (commander, gunner, driver) and is armed with a ZPT-98A 125 mm smoothbore gun fed by an autoloader (38 rounds total, 22 in the carousel). It fires APFSDS, HEAT, HE rounds, and gun-launched anti-tank guided missiles with ranges up to about 5 km. Secondary armament includes a remote weapon station with a 12.7 mm heavy machine gun and a 7.62 mm coaxial machine gun. Protection consists of composite armor plus explosive reactive armor (ERA), with an optional GL-5 active protection system, laser warning receivers, and smoke grenade launchers. Digital fire-control systems provide hunter-killer capability, thermal imaging, and night operations.

Operators include Thailand (primary launch customer), Pakistan, and Nigeria. Nigerian units have been used against Boko Haram, and Thai vehicles have seen action in border incidents. The design emphasizes affordability, modern sensors, and ease of maintenance for export users.