Dimdex 2024: China eyes Qatari defense market with third-gen VT4/MBT-3000 tank.

During the DIMDEX 2024 expo, taking place from March 4th to 6th and featuring Army Recognition as the official media partner, China significantly highlighted its defense offerings in the Middle East. Hosted in Qatar, China's substantial exhibition space showcased an extensive selection of military hardware, including the cutting-edge third-generation Norinco VT4/MBT-3000 main battle tank.
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China third-gen VT4/MBT-3000 Main Battle Tank (Picture source: Army Recognition)

Norinco's (North Industries Corporation) display in Qatar encompassed a broad spectrum of military apparatus, ranging from MBT tanks and light tanks to infantry fighting vehicles, self-propelled artillery, and vehicles designed for mine protection. This move underscores China's intent to expand its footprint in the global arms marketplace.

The showcase's centerpiece, the VT4/MBT-3000, represents the pinnacle of third-generation tank technology. Norinco spotlighted the tank's superior firepower and robust armor protection.

Equipped with the advanced GL5 active protection system, which features four turret-mounted radars for detecting incoming threats at distances up to 100 meters, the MBT-3000 offers enhanced defense capabilities against anti-tank guided missiles and rocket-propelled grenades. The tank also boasts smoke and anti-personnel grenade launchers, augmenting its defensive measures.

The MBT-3000's mobility and state-of-the-art technology were also key focal points. With a weight of 53 tons, this tank is propelled by a 1,300 horsepower turbocharged engine with electronic control, achieving speeds up to 70 km/h (or 40 km/h off-road) and a range exceeding 500 kilometers.

Armament-wise, the MBT-3000 is fitted with a 125x50 mm smoothbore automatic cannon, capable of firing a diverse array of munitions, including kinetic and explosive rounds, alongside anti-tank guided missiles. With an impressive firing rate of eight rounds per minute and an effective range reaching 5,000 meters, the MBT-3000 stands as a formidable force on the battlefield.