China Unveils Cutting-Edge ZTZ-99 Tank Upgrade with Advanced Active Protection System.

The ZTZ-99 is the latest generation of Chinese main battle tanks, representing the most advanced armor technology produced domestically by China. It stands as a symbol of China's military modernization, equipped with cutting-edge systems for firepower, mobility, and protection. A recent development, as shared by "David Wang" on X (formerly Twitter) on September 19, 2024, reveals that China is currently developing a variant of the ZTZ-99 outfitted with an advanced Active Protection System (APS). This APS includes two projectile launchers and four fire control radars, similar to the GL-6 system, first revealed in 2022.
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New Chinese-made ZTZ-99 MBT Main Battle Tank fitted with APS Active Protection System. (Picture source: X account David Wang)

The ZTZ-99 main battle tank, also named Type 99, was developed in the 1990s by China as part of its broader effort to modernize its armored forces. Its design was influenced by earlier Soviet tank models, particularly the T-72, but it incorporates advanced technologies, making it one of the most sophisticated tanks in China’s arsenal. Development of the ZTZ-99 began in the late 1980s, and the first prototype was completed by 1993. After rigorous testing and refinements, the ZTZ-99 officially entered service with the People's Liberation Army (PLA) in 1999. It made its public debut during the National Day parade in 1999, signaling China’s commitment to fielding a modern, competitive armored force.

Regarding combat capabilities, the ZTZ-99 is equipped with a 125mm smoothbore cannon, capable of firing APFSDS rounds, HEAT shells, and ATGMs, enabling it to engage heavily armored vehicles at various ranges. The tank is protected by advanced composite armor and explosive reactive armor (ERA), designed to defend against high-explosive and kinetic threats. Recent variants of the ZTZ-99 have integrated an Active Protection System (APS), like the GL-6, which offers hard-kill protection by intercepting incoming missiles or projectiles. The tank is powered by a 1,500-horsepower diesel engine, allowing it to reach speeds of up to 80 km/h, ensuring excellent mobility on diverse terrain. This combination of firepower, protection, and speed solidifies the ZTZ-99's role as a highly capable and modern main battle tank​.

The GL-6 Active Protection System (APS) is a hard-kill defense system developed by China, primarily designed to protect armored vehicles from incoming anti-tank missiles and projectiles. It is similar in function to other APS like Israel's "Iron Fist." The GL-6 system is integrated into vehicles such as the VT-4A1 main battle tank and offers advanced interception capabilities. It uses radar to detect and neutralize threats by launching countermeasures that destroy or deflect incoming missiles before they can strike the vehicle.

The GL-6 is a significant upgrade over earlier models like the GL-5, offering better performance and modular features that allow it to be adapted to various platforms. The system effectively counters anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) and high-explosive projectiles, making it a valuable asset in modern armored warfare.

In terms of performance, the GL-6 can intercept multiple types of threats from various angles, adding a layer of survivability for vehicles like the VT-4A1 and potentially the VN-22 infantry fighting vehicle (IFV), although its functionality on the latter is still debated and may be limited to experimental or demonstration purposes

Adding the APS to the ZTZ-99 tank is a game-changer for its defensive capabilities. An APS is designed to provide "hard-kill" protection, which means it actively intercepts and destroys incoming anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), and other high-velocity projectiles before they can hit the tank. The two APS projectile launchers and radar system work in tandem to detect and neutralize threats, providing 360-degree coverage. This level of protection enhances the tank's survivability in both offensive and defensive operations, especially in environments where advanced anti-tank weaponry is deployed.

By adding this advanced APS, the ZTZ-99 becomes far more resistant to modern anti-armor threats, ensuring it can remain operational on the battlefield even when facing the latest missile and projectile systems. The GL-6 system, in particular, is known for its efficiency in intercepting multiple threats simultaneously, further increasing the tank's durability in combat.

These improvements make the ZTZ-99 not only a powerful offensive machine, with its 125mm smoothbore gun capable of firing various munitions, but also a highly resilient vehicle, able to withstand a wide range of battlefield threats. This development aligns with China's strategic focus on enhancing the survivability and effectiveness of its armored forces, allowing the ZTZ-99 to maintain its cutting-edge position among global main battle tanks.