Brazilian Army checking out Chinese NORINCO VT4 main battle tank.

According to Tyan on China-Defense.blogspot.com on May 12, the Brazilian army has been checking out NORINCO‘s VT4 main battle tank, an operation dating back to December 2022, in fact. NORINCO offered the option of arming its VT4 with a 120mm main gun for a forthcoming Brazilian call for tenders.
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Brazilian army officers with NORINCO's VT-4 MBT  (Picture sourceNORINCO)

And they should still have plenty of surplus Type 89 SPATG 120mm 50-cal barrels around. The bigger issue, Tuan writes, would be to reconfigure the internal space for such a large unitary ammo. One may then expect the back of the turret would get chopped off to install the larger autoloader of the VT5/Type 15 lightweight MBT. Financially, paying for Chinese equipment would not be a problem as Brazil agreed to trade with China in RMB (Renminbi, the Chinese currency).

The VT-4, also known as the MBT-3000, is a Chinese third-generation main battle tank built by NORINCO (China North Industries Corporation) for overseas export. The VT-4 shares many subsystems technology and features from other latest Chinese main battle tanks such as Type 96B and Type 99A. Key examples are an automatic transmission system, 125mm smoothbore cannon, muzzle reference system, FY-4 ERA, carousel style autoloader, and overall geometry. The tank is armed with a powerful 125mm smoothbore gun, capable of firing a wide range of projectiles, including APFSDS (Armor-Piercing Fin-Stabilized Discarding Sabot) rounds and high-explosive shells. In addition to its main armament, the VT4 features a secondary weapon system, including a coaxial machine gun and a roof-mounted remotely operated weapon station.

the VT-4 uses a locally produced 1,300 hp diesel engine. Along with the suspension with torsion bars and an integrated hydraulic transmission system steering, the VT-4 is capable of neutral steering. To protect its crew, the VT4 incorporates advanced composite and modular armor.

Furthermore, the VT4 tank incorporates modern technologies to enhance situational awareness and survivability on the battlefield. It is equipped with a state-of-the-art fire control system, advanced sensors, and integrated battle management systems, enabling the crew to effectively detect, track, and engage targets while minimizing the risk of being detected.

Brazilian army team with NORINCO personnel discussing about the VT-4 MBT  (Picture sourceNORINCO )

Brazilian army tank force

The Brazilian Army’s armored force, also known as the "Força de Carros de Combate" in Portuguese,
operates a diverse fleet of tanks, consisting primarily of locally manufactured and imported vehicles. One of the most prominent tanks in service is the Leopard 1A5BR. It has undergone upgrades to meet the specific requirements of the Brazilian Army, enhancing its combat capabilities, mobility, and protection.

In recent years, Brazil has focused on modernizing its tank force through the acquisition of new technologies and the development of indigenous systems. This includes the ongoing project to develop the Guarani 8x8, an advanced version of the armored vehicle with increased firepower, mobility, and protection. Additionally, efforts are underway to upgrade the Leopard 1A5BR tanks to enhance their combat effectiveness and extend their service life.

Defense News May 2023