(VIDEO) Watch A Chinese-Made VT4 Tank Suffers “Embarrassing” Malfunction
(VIDEO) The malfunction of the VT4 main battle tank caused it to come to an abrupt halt, prematurely ending its demonstration. A video of the incident has since gone viral on social media, showing the tank struggling to ascend a hill during the performance.
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – In a highly embarrassing incident that raises questions about the reliability of Chinese-made weapon systems, a domestically produced main battle tank broke down and was forced to halt during a dynamic demonstration at the recent Zhuhai Air Show.
The malfunction of the VT4 tank caused it to come to a sudden stop during the showcase, with videos of the incident going viral on social media, showing the tank struggling to climb an incline.
The “embarrassing” breakdown occurred during a demonstration intended to highlight the tank’s capabilities.
However, the mechanical failure rendered the vehicle immobile, abruptly ending its performance.
Reports indicate that the VT4, which was expected to participate in the full program of events at the Zhuhai Air Show, failed to complete its demonstration due to the mechanical issue.
The incident highlights recurring problems with some Chinese-made military equipment, which have often faced technical issues during similar exhibitions.
This event echoes a similar incident in 2016, when the Chinese Type-96B tank experienced a mechanical failure during the “Tank Biathlon” competition at the Alabino training ground in Russia.
The breakdown of the Type-96B during the international military games raised persistent questions about the reliability of Chinese-made armored vehicles.
The VT4, also known as the MBT-3000, is a third-generation main battle tank produced by Norinco (China North Industries Corporation) and is designed primarily for the export market.
Countries such as Pakistan, Thailand, and Nigeria have acquired the VT4 for their armed forces.
The VT4 is equipped with a 125mm smoothbore gun with an automatic loader capable of housing approximately 22 rounds, along with auxiliary weaponry including a 7.62mm machine gun and a 12.7mm machine gun.
The 52-ton tank is powered by a 1,200-horsepower engine and can also launch missiles such as the 9K119 Refleks, with a range of up to 5 kilometers.
It is operated by a crew of three: a commander, a gunner, and a driver.
Additional features include composite armor and Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA) for enhanced protection.
The breakdown during the Zhuhai Air Show could raise concerns among potential buyers and current operators about the VT4’s performance and reliability.
As the Zhuhai Air Show, also known as the China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition, serves as a premier platform for showcasing China’s advancements in defense technology, this incident has sparked broader questions about the dependability of Chinese military exports.
This is particularly significant as China seeks to expand its influence in the global arms market.– DSA
