(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — Recently, Pakistan publicly unveiled its latest main battle tank named “Haider,” developed through a collaboration between the country’s defense company and China.
The unveiling ceremony of Pakistan’s newest main battle tank was attended by the country’s Army Chief, General Syed Asim Munir.
Developed by Pakistan’s Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT) and China‘s NORINCO, the new “Haider” main battle tank is a testament to the close defense and economic ties between the two nations.
In addition to the “Haider” main battle tank, Pakistan and China have also co-developed the JF-17 “Thunder” fighter jet, a project between Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) and the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation of China.
China is the largest arms supplier to Pakistan.
Previous reports have stated that Pakistan agreed to purchase 674 VT4 tanks from China, many of which are assembled and produced at HIT’s facilities in Pakistan.
It is likely that the newly named “Haider” tank is a version of China’s VT4, but equipped with Pakistani-made components, allowing for its rebranding.
The VT4, or MBT-3000 produced by China’s NORINCO, is a third-generation main battle tank and an export variant of the Type 99 tank used by the Chinese army.
“Haider” represents the latest advancement in Pakistan’s defense industry, which has previously developed other indigenous tanks such as the “Al-Zarrar” and “Al-Khalid.”
The “Haider” main battle tank features a conventional design, operated by a three-person crew, with the driver positioned at the front.
Its armament system includes a 125mm cannon capable of firing a variety of ammunition types such as APFSDS, HE, HEAT, and anti-tank guided missiles.
With a capacity to carry 38 rounds, the “Haider” can remain on the battlefield longer to destroy more targets.
In addition to its cannon, Pakistan’s latest tank is equipped with a 7.62mm machine gun and a Remote Control Weapon Station (RCWS) with a 12.7mm heavy machine gun for close-in defense.
For its defense system, aside from the 7.62mm and 12.7mm machine guns, the “Haider” also features composite and reactive armor technology to protect against various threats, including anti-tank guided missiles.
The tank is powered by a 1,200 horsepower diesel engine with an automatic transmission, enabling it to reach speeds of up to 70 km/h over an operational range of 500 km.
The “Haider” is also equipped with an advanced fire control system, allowing for high precision targeting on the battlefield.
This fire control system includes a ballistic computer that calculates to ensure accurate targeting and neutralization of threats. — DSA