China Develops New Light Tank with 105mm Cannon to Compete with Western BAE Systems' CV90105.

According to a picture published on a social network, the Chinese defense industry has developed a new light fire support vehicle. This vehicle is an advanced version of the VN20 tracked Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV). This model is armed with a powerful 105mm cannon that features an automatic loading system, marking a notable enhancement in firepower for lightweight armored vehicles.
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New Chinese light tank based on the VN20 IFV Infantry Fighting Vehicle armed with one 105mm cannon. (Picture source Chinese Social Network)

The design and capabilities of this new vehicle appear to align closely with Western models, particularly resembling the CV90105 light tank developed by BAE Systems, which also uses a 105mm cannon and is based on the CV90 chassis. This comparison underscores China's ongoing efforts to match and potentially exceed Western standards in military vehicle performance.

The introduction of this vehicle follows the recent development of the VT5 light tank, which adheres to the more traditional design principles of a Main Battle Tank but at a reduced weight. The new fire support vehicle promises to be even lighter than the VT5 while maintaining comparable firepower, which could position it as a more cost-effective yet potent option within the global arms market.

While it remains unclear whether there is existing customer demand for this new model, or if the manufacturer is anticipating future needs, the vehicle's advanced capabilities and strategic design suggest that it could attract interest once fully introduced. The development represents another step in China's assertive expansion and innovation in the military sector, potentially reshaping market dynamics in light armored vehicles.

The global military demand has seen a notable shift towards lighter and more versatile armored vehicles, driven by the need for rapid deployment and adaptability in various combat situations. This trend is reflected in the increasing demand for light and medium tanks, which combine effective firepower with enhanced mobility, making them suitable for various operational environments.

Recently, the Kapkan medium tank has been introduced into service with the Indonesian Armed Forces. Developed in partnership with FNSS of Türkiye and local Indonesian defense industries, the Kapkan features a turret system designed by the Belgian company John Cockerill, showcasing a robust collaboration that brings together international expertise in armored vehicle design. The tank represents a modern approach to medium armored vehicles, offering a balance of firepower, protection, and mobility that suits the geographical and strategic needs of Indonesia. Medium tanks like the Kapkan are especially valued by nations that require robust yet flexible vehicles capable of performing in diverse terrains, from dense forests to urban settings.

Simultaneously, the Philippines Armed Forces have enhanced their capabilities with the acquisition of the Sabrah light tank from Elbit Systems. This addition underscores a similar strategic preference for highly mobile and adaptable military assets. Light tanks such as the Sbara provide significant advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness and ease of deployment, which are critical factors for countries looking to modernize their defense infrastructures without the extensive financial burden typically associated with heavier tanks.

Both these developments—the service entry of the Kapkan in Indonesia and the delivery of the Sabrah to the Philippines—highlight the strategic shift towards lighter, more versatile armored vehicles in modern military planning. This trend is likely to continue as the benefits of such vehicles, including lower costs and greater operational flexibility, become increasingly apparent to defense forces worldwide.

BAE Systems light tank based on the CV90 IFV chassis fitted with 105mm turret from Belgian company John Cockerill Defense. (Picture source JCD)

The VN20 is a robust "Heavy-Duty Infantry Fighting Vehicle" developed by the Chinese state defense company, Norinco. It was first showcased at the 2020 Zhuhai Airshow. Regarded as one of the most heavily protected and armed tracked armored IFVs globally, the VN20 sets a high standard in its category.

This vehicle marks a new era in IFV design, utilizing a tracked chassis derived from the VT4 Main Battle Tank (MBT) chassis, which ensures exceptional mobility across various terrains.

The design of the VN20 is distinctive, featuring a front hull equipped with two hatches—one for the driver on the left and another for the commander on the right. The engine is positioned at the front, while the turret is centrally mounted. The rear section of the VN20 is designed to carry up to six infantrymen and includes a hydraulic ramp for rapid entry and exit.

Protection is a key feature of the VN20, which boasts an extensive armor package. This includes Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA) enveloping both the hull and turret. According to engineers from NORINCO, the vehicle offers Level 6 STANAG 4569 ballistic and mine protection, capable of withstanding 30mm caliber APFSDS (Armour-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot) or AP (Armor-Piercing) rounds fired from a distance of 500 meters.

Additionally, the sides of the VN20's hull and its suspension system are shielded by three layers of armor: standard armor plates that extend over the upper parts of the suspension, wire cage armor, and ERA. This level of comprehensive protection is unprecedented, making the VN20 the first armored vehicle globally to achieve such a distinction.

The Chinese VN is a new generation of IFV Infantry Fighting Vehicles offering a high level of protection, firepower, and mobility. (Picture source Chiese Social Network)

Defense News April 2024