The ZTZ-96 or Type 96 is a modern Chinese Main Battle Tank. The first prototypes of the vehicle were probably created in the early 1990s, and serial production started in 1996 or 1997 continues to this day. To date (2018), 1,500-2,500 tanks of this type have been produced. The ZTZ-96 is powered by a 1000 HP diesel engine. The vehicle is armed with a single 125mm tank gun, a license-free copy of the Russian 2A46 cannon. In addition, the tank's armament consists of 2 machine guns: cal. 12.7 mm and 7.62 mm.
The ZTZ-96 was created as a successor to the Type 85 tank. The Chinese designers set themselves the goal of the ZTZ-96 to create a machine that would be able to match Russian designs like the T-80U or T-80UD. To shorten the work, many components from the Type 85 tank were used. However, a few new elements were added: first of all, a slightly modernized gun, better FCS (fire control system) and improved armor. Probably a more powerful engine was also used, which improved the mobility of the car in the field. A significant modification of the ZTZ-96 car is the ZTZ-96G version, which received much better reactive armor and an SKO with thermal imaging cameras. It is commonly believed that the ZTZ-96 is currently the main battle tank of the PRC army.
The ZTZ96B is the latest ZTZ96 tank variant. The type test of the ZTZ96B started in the second half of 2016. The test will be finalized and this tank will enter military service in the second half of 2017. But before that happens, this tank has already taken part in the Tank Biathlon in 2016 and 2017. In the rigorous competition environment, the ZTZ96B did well and was ranked second and third respectively. Its amazing straight-line acceleration in competition with the T-72, its running at full speed after losing one road wheel and marching fire with great precision all leave people a deep impression. The vehicle has inherited the excellent fire power and protection of ZTZ96A. It has also received a new power pack and a new hydraulic transmission, which greatly improves its maneuverability.
KIT INFO
This TS-034 PLA Main Battle Tank ZTZ96B plastic model kit provides three build options: ZTZ96B MBT in 2016, ZTZ96B MBT in 2017 and the export version VT2. This kit contains a brand new movable suspension which has metal parts. The movable suspension looks good and works well. It’s firmer and more reliable.
