Army of the Czech Republic to upgrade some 30 T-72 MBTs by 2023.

The Army of the Czech Republic (ACR) is planning to upgrade more than 30 T72M4CZ main battle tanks (MBTs) through 2023, according to the news agency CTK.

T-72M4CZ (Picture source: Czech MoD)

"Thirty-three T-72M4CZ MBTs, which were produced in the Czech Republic in 2003-2006 under a Russian license, are subject to modernization. The tank`s outdated components, including fire-control systems (FCSs) and control units, will be replaced [by modern devices]. The works will be conducted at the VOP CZ plant through 2023," said CTK.

According to the news agency, the Czech Republic`s Ministry of Defense (MoD) will earmark CZK908 million (approximately USD40 million) for the modernization. The MoD is to send a draft contract to the country`s government at an early date.

The T-72M4CZ incorporates the CV12-1000 (1,000 h.p.) diesel engine, Dyna-72 explosive reactive armor, Obra laser warning system, TURMS-T FCS, a navigation system, enhanced intercom, and Dita-72/97B diagnostic system. The MBT retains 125 mm 2A46M tank gun of T-72M1. The tank can fire the new EPpSV-97 APFSDS round that pierces 540 mm of rolled homogeneous armor (RHA) at 2,000 m. The Czech Republic army is reported to be operating some 30 T-72M4CZ MBTs.