Upgraded main tank "Chonma-216" (DPRK)
15 April, a military parade was held in Pyongyang on the 105 anniversary of the birth of Kim Il Sung. As part of this festive event, the armed forces of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea showed for the first time several new types of weapons and military equipment. For obvious reasons, all these new items attracted the attention of specialists and the general public around the world. North Korea has traditionally been in no hurry to advertise their designs, which is why every parade attracts much attention from foreign countries. At this time, one of the "nails of the program" was a modernized tank "Chonma-216", which attracted attention due to several of its features.
According to reports, a new option tank Chonma-216 is another development in the whole family of armored combat vehicles. Back in the mid-seventies, North Korean industry launched the production of a licensed version of the Soviet medium tank T-62. In the DPRK, this technique was called 천마 - “Chonma” (the names “Chonmakho” and “Chollima” are also found). For the first time such a car was shown publicly only in the early eighties. Subsequently, several new combat vehicles were created on the basis of the existing tank, which differed from each other in various design improvements, as well as in the growth of basic characteristics associated with them.
The parade of tanks "Chonma-216". Broadcast frame
Tank "Chonma-216", according to various sources, was created in the middle of the two thousandth, and soon entered service. In the future, the industry has created an improved combat vehicle "Songun-915". However, the development of previously developed technology has not ceased. As recent events show, the “Chonma-216” tank has recently undergone a noticeable modernization, during which it received an updated weapon system and, probably, some new internal equipment. Obviously, such a modernization had a very positive effect on the overall firepower of the tank and on the range of combat missions solved by it.
The most interesting feature of the modernization project of the existing tank is an unusual approach to the formation of an armament complex. The base Soviet T-62 and its first modifications of the North Korean design were armed with tank guns and several machine guns. In recent years, the North Korean military and engineers began to consider such an armament complex to be insufficient, due to which the latest combat vehicles are equipped with several additional systems. As a result, the existing armament of the tank is complemented by several additional receiver systems and is enhanced by guided missiles. Due to the presence of powerful and diverse weapons, the updated tank immediately after the “premiere” received the nickname “Combine of Death” from foreign wits.
At the same time, the project did not forget about the development of anti-tank weapons of foreign countries and provided means for enhancing protection. The survivability of the Chonma-216 tank is ensured by both its own armor and mounted elements of various types. In addition, there are onboard fire extinguishing systems and collective protection against weapons mass destruction.
Regular upgrades of the base model of armored vehicles allow changing the classification of newer models. If the early "Chonma" were medium tanks, the later modifications, due to a significant increase in firepower and level of protection, can be classified as basic. There are certain reasons for doubting that even after the last modernization, the Chonma-216 can compete with modern foreign models, but even in its current form, this machine is a very interesting model with rather high characteristics.
Tank at the site. Photo Strangernn.livejournal.com
As follows from the available data, in the course of multiple modernization of the base tank of the Soviet design, the industry of the DPRK did not begin to affect and change the main features of its appearance. All projects of the Chonma family involve the construction of a classic-style combat vehicle with a front management compartment, a central combat compartment and a engine compartment in the stern. At the same time, however, over time, the protection of the hull and the tower was improved. In addition, the complete configuration of the aft engine compartment was changed. According to some reports, the latest modifications, including the Chonma-216, use diesel engines with a capacity of at least 750 hp.
Some sources claim that during one of the latest upgrades, the Chonma tanks received a combined reservation for the frontal part of the hull. Some features of these units shown in the parade of the tank "Chonma-216" suggest that it is also equipped with multi-layer protection. In addition, the frontal projection of the hull is additionally covered with large curved armored parts and a large number of box-shaped dynamic protection modules. The additional hinged blocks do not cover only small sections of armor near the towing hooks and under the lighting equipment. All measures used should lead to a noticeable increase in the level of protection in comparison with the combat vehicles of previous modifications.
The side view of the hull does not have significant additional protection. As can be seen in the available photos, the upper running gear elements are covered with simple rubber screens. Only a small portion of them in the front of the vehicle, directly behind the caterpillar's front wing, is additionally covered with two armored guards of the folding structure.
The cast tower with homogeneous armor, borrowed from a Soviet-designed tank, eventually gave way to a larger unit with a combined forehead protection. The own booking of the tower is reinforced by additional hinged blocks of complex shape. In these details, holes are provided for a coaxial machine gun and the gunner's sight. It is noteworthy that the installation of the front armor invoice led to the need to transfer the spotlight to the L-shaped brackets. With their help, the lighting device is brought to the desired height, allowing free space for the use of a coaxial machine gun. The embrasure of the latter is located directly between the supports of the searchlight.
The last tanks of the family are equipped with 125-mm smooth-bore guns, representing the North Korean version of the Soviet / Russian 2A46 cannon. This gun is equipped with an ejector and automatic loading, located inside the crew compartment. Due to the limited volumes inside the turret, a small armor case is mounted above the gun's mask, which accommodates a part of special equipment. The windows for lenses suggest that there are some optical-electronic systems and a laser range finder in this housing. Also, a movable searchlight is connected to the mask of the cannon with the help of levers and arms. On the same machine with a gun mounted rifle caliber machine gun. The latest "traditional" tank weapons are two blocks of smoke grenade launchers on the sides of the turret, each containing four barrels.
General view of the upgraded car. Photo Imp-navigator.livejournal.com
Probably, the North Korean command considered the existing firepower insufficient, resulting in a modernized tank received a number of new systems. Of greatest interest is the multifunctional gun mount mounted on the left hatch of the tower. It is thanks to her that the tank gets the opportunity to more effectively deal with the manpower of the enemy, as well as to attack protected targets at increased distances, outside the zone of responsibility of the main gun.
Directly on the support ring of the tower is placed a turntable, characterized by a large width and complex shape. Mounted on the left side of the platform are the mountings for the anti-tank missile launcher. Installation is made in the form of a light frame with fasteners for two transport-launch containers. The frame has a curved armor shield and can swing in a vertical plane. Pre-guidance control is carried out using remote-controlled drives. According to various sources, this installation is intended for use of anti-tank missiles such as "Pulse-3". Apparently, the ammunition complex consists of only two missiles: the possibility of placing additional ammunition in the fighting compartment is questionable.
On the right on a rotating platform is a twin installation of automatic grenade launchers. Its foundation was a support with horizontal and vertical elements. The first are intended for the installation of ammunition drawers, the second - for mounting weapons. It is proposed to use two automatic grenade launchers in caliber, presumably 30 mm, equipped with general guidance tools. Weapon ammunition is carried out using ribbons placed in two boxes, additionally covered with armor plates. In this case, the supply of grenades to weapons is carried out from different sides, which made it possible to optimize the layout of the installation.
Automatic grenade launchers or a machine gun can be used to attack various targets, including air ones, but in this case their effectiveness will be extremely small. As a primary means of combating aviation the enemy, the upgraded Chonma-216 tank received a launcher for anti-aircraft missiles. In the aft part of the starboard side of the tower, a box-shaped support is mounted on which a rotary device with fastenings for a lifting boom is placed. At the top of the latter is a rocking installation with the ability to install two portable anti-aircraft missile systems HT-16PGJ. TPK missiles are covered with light armor. Directly above them is a small casing with a camera for guidance during startup.
Tower close up. Photo Imp-navigator.livejournal.com
Earlier it was reported that the last tanks of the Chonma family are equipped with a fairly advanced and perfect fire control system. In its composition are used modern digital devices, as well as optical and thermal imaging systems, allowing tank crews to work at any time of the day and regardless of weather conditions. In addition, the Chonma-216 tank is equipped with a set of weather sensors, with which data is collected to correctly calculate the corrections.
The available materials show that the updated Chonma-216 armored vehicle carries a rather interesting set of weapons monitoring and guidance tools. So, one of the blocks of opto-electronic equipment is placed directly above the gun mask. To the left of the gun is a window for a telescopic sight. On the right hatch of the tower is placed a large casing of the periscopic device, probably providing a circular view. A separate camera is available on the remotely controlled MANPADS installation. On both sides of the tower on the removed supports there are low columns of unclear purpose. The characteristic glazing on these parts suggests that they contain additional video cameras to track the side hemispheres.
It can be assumed that there are several liquid-crystal monitors at workplaces inside the tower for outputting the video signal from numerous cameras and other devices. In addition, the commander and gunner must have the consoles necessary to control the gun and coaxial machine gun, anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles, as well as automatic grenade launchers. However, there is reason to believe that the firing of grenade launchers should be carried out without the use of remote control: the used twin installation simply does not have any mechanical drives.
The crew of the updated combat vehicle consists of three people: the driver, the commander and the gunner. The first is located inside the case, in its own department of management. At his disposal there is a hatchway with a diverting lid and a set of periscopes. The commander and gunner are in the tower and fall into place with the help of hatches in its roof. In this case, one of the tankers during landing must be careful not to hurt the additional rocket and grenade launchers.
The tactical and technical characteristics of the upgraded main tank “Chonma-216” remain secret. It can be assumed that in its dimensions it, in general, corresponds to the previous technique of the family and the basic Soviet T-62. The combat mass could reach the level of 40-45 t. The only passage through the square during the parade does not allow us to estimate the dynamic characteristics of the tank, not to mention the maximum mobility parameters. Apparently, on the highway, the tank is capable of reaching speeds of the order of 50-60 km / h and overcome various obstacles, including water obstacles.
Tanks "Chonma-216" go to the area named. Kim Il Sung. Broadcast frame
The newest upgraded version of the medium / main tank “Chonma-216” is of great interest, at least from the point of view of technology and original ideas underlying the project. The active development of tanks continues to this day, but radically new ideas and solutions have not appeared for quite some time. In particular, for several decades, methods of a radical modernization of the armament complex have not been proposed. North Korean specialists, in turn, have developed a very interesting version of the armament of the existing combat vehicle.
In addition to the standard cannon and machine gun, the upgraded tank from the DPRK received two twin automatic grenade launchers and two missile complexes for various purposes. Due to this, the combat vehicle is capable of attacking enemy tanks and armored vehicles at long distances with missiles or the main weapon. In addition, it has a certain potential in the fight against enemy aircraft. As for the destruction of manpower or unprotected enemy equipment, it can be carried out using three types of barreled weapons - depending on the current situation and various factors.
If you compare the upgraded tank with the previous machines of your family, then the advantages in the form of enhanced protection, more advanced weapons and newer means of observation, fire control, etc. become obvious. At the same time, the continuity of the structures leads to the fact that the “Chonma-216” has some common features with a number of predecessors.
From the point of view of the breadth of the range of combat tasks to be solved, the updated tank Chonma-216 has no competitors among foreign vehicles. This, in particular, provides certain advantages of an organizational and tactical nature. In particular, it can be assumed that the formations that are armed with such armored vehicles, have the opportunity to reduce the number of required self-propelled anti-aircraft installations, carrying out their protection from air attack.
Cars go past the rostrum of the DPRK leadership. Broadcast frame
Nevertheless, the most interesting combat armored vehicle is not devoid of several serious flaws, in one way or another reducing its real potential. Perhaps the main drawback of the updated tank is an obsolete platform. The medium tank T-62 was developed by Soviet specialists in the late fifties, and at the beginning of the next decade went into series. It had a number of major differences from its predecessors, but all its advantages were soon offset by the further development of armored vehicles. DPRK industry mastered the production of licensed T-62 after this machine had lost all its positive features.
Further modernization of the outdated tank, including the use of developments on the T-72 tank, made it possible to raise some of its characteristics to a certain extent. However, some parts and assemblies remain unchanged, which has corresponding negative consequences. The use of ready-made components and assemblies imposes certain restrictions on the development of technology, and also does not allow the use of new components with relative simplicity. In particular, it was for these reasons that the tanks shown in the parade could receive overhead booking details on top of the tower’s forehead. The use of the finished dome also led to the need to install additional supports for auxiliary weapons and viewing devices.
Another serious problem of the project lies in the unsuccessful combination of the number of transported weapons and crew. Thanks to the automatic loader, it was possible to reduce the crew to three people, which, however, leads to an increased load on the tank crews. Under the conditions of a real battle, “towers” will have to control five types of weapons of various types and purposes at once. For example, the commander and the gunner, having a large number of various devices, are now invited to monitor not only the situation on the ground, but also the air situation. Indeed, the Chonma-216 tank has the ability to independently attack enemy aircraft or helicopters, but the absence of individual air defense machines in the compound can significantly complicate the work of the tank crews. A similar claim can be made to the use of the other components of the updated weapons complex.
In general, the upgraded version of the medium-main tank Chonma-216 presented at the recent parade is a serious step forward for the North Korean defense industry. This combat vehicle looks favorably against the background of its predecessors, and also embodies the original ideas and demonstrates the ability of the DPRK to continue the development of armored vehicles. At the same time, the lack of truly modern platforms and the specifics of the proposed technical appearance lead to some negative consequences.
North Korea has traditionally not been in a hurry to disclose details of its latest developments, nor does it specify the specifics of their production and operation. As a result, at the moment one can only study fragmentary data and make predictions about the future of promising technology. The real assessment of North Korean tanks, including the upgraded Chonma-216 armored vehicles, is possible only as a result of real combat operations. However, obtaining detailed information about the tank is not worth such sacrifices. I would like to hope that the renewed tank “Chonma-216”, as well as its predecessors, will symbolize the DPRK combat power only at parades in the future.
On the materials of the sites:
https://rg.ru/
http://bmpd.livejournal.com/
http://imp-navigator.livejournal.com/
http://strangernn.livejournal.com/
According to reports, a new option tank Chonma-216 is another development in the whole family of armored combat vehicles. Back in the mid-seventies, North Korean industry launched the production of a licensed version of the Soviet medium tank T-62. In the DPRK, this technique was called 천마 - “Chonma” (the names “Chonmakho” and “Chollima” are also found). For the first time such a car was shown publicly only in the early eighties. Subsequently, several new combat vehicles were created on the basis of the existing tank, which differed from each other in various design improvements, as well as in the growth of basic characteristics associated with them.
The parade of tanks "Chonma-216". Broadcast frame
Tank "Chonma-216", according to various sources, was created in the middle of the two thousandth, and soon entered service. In the future, the industry has created an improved combat vehicle "Songun-915". However, the development of previously developed technology has not ceased. As recent events show, the “Chonma-216” tank has recently undergone a noticeable modernization, during which it received an updated weapon system and, probably, some new internal equipment. Obviously, such a modernization had a very positive effect on the overall firepower of the tank and on the range of combat missions solved by it.
The most interesting feature of the modernization project of the existing tank is an unusual approach to the formation of an armament complex. The base Soviet T-62 and its first modifications of the North Korean design were armed with tank guns and several machine guns. In recent years, the North Korean military and engineers began to consider such an armament complex to be insufficient, due to which the latest combat vehicles are equipped with several additional systems. As a result, the existing armament of the tank is complemented by several additional receiver systems and is enhanced by guided missiles. Due to the presence of powerful and diverse weapons, the updated tank immediately after the “premiere” received the nickname “Combine of Death” from foreign wits.
At the same time, the project did not forget about the development of anti-tank weapons of foreign countries and provided means for enhancing protection. The survivability of the Chonma-216 tank is ensured by both its own armor and mounted elements of various types. In addition, there are onboard fire extinguishing systems and collective protection against weapons mass destruction.
Regular upgrades of the base model of armored vehicles allow changing the classification of newer models. If the early "Chonma" were medium tanks, the later modifications, due to a significant increase in firepower and level of protection, can be classified as basic. There are certain reasons for doubting that even after the last modernization, the Chonma-216 can compete with modern foreign models, but even in its current form, this machine is a very interesting model with rather high characteristics.
Tank at the site. Photo Strangernn.livejournal.com
As follows from the available data, in the course of multiple modernization of the base tank of the Soviet design, the industry of the DPRK did not begin to affect and change the main features of its appearance. All projects of the Chonma family involve the construction of a classic-style combat vehicle with a front management compartment, a central combat compartment and a engine compartment in the stern. At the same time, however, over time, the protection of the hull and the tower was improved. In addition, the complete configuration of the aft engine compartment was changed. According to some reports, the latest modifications, including the Chonma-216, use diesel engines with a capacity of at least 750 hp.
Some sources claim that during one of the latest upgrades, the Chonma tanks received a combined reservation for the frontal part of the hull. Some features of these units shown in the parade of the tank "Chonma-216" suggest that it is also equipped with multi-layer protection. In addition, the frontal projection of the hull is additionally covered with large curved armored parts and a large number of box-shaped dynamic protection modules. The additional hinged blocks do not cover only small sections of armor near the towing hooks and under the lighting equipment. All measures used should lead to a noticeable increase in the level of protection in comparison with the combat vehicles of previous modifications.
The side view of the hull does not have significant additional protection. As can be seen in the available photos, the upper running gear elements are covered with simple rubber screens. Only a small portion of them in the front of the vehicle, directly behind the caterpillar's front wing, is additionally covered with two armored guards of the folding structure.
The cast tower with homogeneous armor, borrowed from a Soviet-designed tank, eventually gave way to a larger unit with a combined forehead protection. The own booking of the tower is reinforced by additional hinged blocks of complex shape. In these details, holes are provided for a coaxial machine gun and the gunner's sight. It is noteworthy that the installation of the front armor invoice led to the need to transfer the spotlight to the L-shaped brackets. With their help, the lighting device is brought to the desired height, allowing free space for the use of a coaxial machine gun. The embrasure of the latter is located directly between the supports of the searchlight.
The last tanks of the family are equipped with 125-mm smooth-bore guns, representing the North Korean version of the Soviet / Russian 2A46 cannon. This gun is equipped with an ejector and automatic loading, located inside the crew compartment. Due to the limited volumes inside the turret, a small armor case is mounted above the gun's mask, which accommodates a part of special equipment. The windows for lenses suggest that there are some optical-electronic systems and a laser range finder in this housing. Also, a movable searchlight is connected to the mask of the cannon with the help of levers and arms. On the same machine with a gun mounted rifle caliber machine gun. The latest "traditional" tank weapons are two blocks of smoke grenade launchers on the sides of the turret, each containing four barrels.
General view of the upgraded car. Photo Imp-navigator.livejournal.com
Probably, the North Korean command considered the existing firepower insufficient, resulting in a modernized tank received a number of new systems. Of greatest interest is the multifunctional gun mount mounted on the left hatch of the tower. It is thanks to her that the tank gets the opportunity to more effectively deal with the manpower of the enemy, as well as to attack protected targets at increased distances, outside the zone of responsibility of the main gun.
Directly on the support ring of the tower is placed a turntable, characterized by a large width and complex shape. Mounted on the left side of the platform are the mountings for the anti-tank missile launcher. Installation is made in the form of a light frame with fasteners for two transport-launch containers. The frame has a curved armor shield and can swing in a vertical plane. Pre-guidance control is carried out using remote-controlled drives. According to various sources, this installation is intended for use of anti-tank missiles such as "Pulse-3". Apparently, the ammunition complex consists of only two missiles: the possibility of placing additional ammunition in the fighting compartment is questionable.
On the right on a rotating platform is a twin installation of automatic grenade launchers. Its foundation was a support with horizontal and vertical elements. The first are intended for the installation of ammunition drawers, the second - for mounting weapons. It is proposed to use two automatic grenade launchers in caliber, presumably 30 mm, equipped with general guidance tools. Weapon ammunition is carried out using ribbons placed in two boxes, additionally covered with armor plates. In this case, the supply of grenades to weapons is carried out from different sides, which made it possible to optimize the layout of the installation.
Automatic grenade launchers or a machine gun can be used to attack various targets, including air ones, but in this case their effectiveness will be extremely small. As a primary means of combating aviation the enemy, the upgraded Chonma-216 tank received a launcher for anti-aircraft missiles. In the aft part of the starboard side of the tower, a box-shaped support is mounted on which a rotary device with fastenings for a lifting boom is placed. At the top of the latter is a rocking installation with the ability to install two portable anti-aircraft missile systems HT-16PGJ. TPK missiles are covered with light armor. Directly above them is a small casing with a camera for guidance during startup.
Tower close up. Photo Imp-navigator.livejournal.com
Earlier it was reported that the last tanks of the Chonma family are equipped with a fairly advanced and perfect fire control system. In its composition are used modern digital devices, as well as optical and thermal imaging systems, allowing tank crews to work at any time of the day and regardless of weather conditions. In addition, the Chonma-216 tank is equipped with a set of weather sensors, with which data is collected to correctly calculate the corrections.
The available materials show that the updated Chonma-216 armored vehicle carries a rather interesting set of weapons monitoring and guidance tools. So, one of the blocks of opto-electronic equipment is placed directly above the gun mask. To the left of the gun is a window for a telescopic sight. On the right hatch of the tower is placed a large casing of the periscopic device, probably providing a circular view. A separate camera is available on the remotely controlled MANPADS installation. On both sides of the tower on the removed supports there are low columns of unclear purpose. The characteristic glazing on these parts suggests that they contain additional video cameras to track the side hemispheres.
It can be assumed that there are several liquid-crystal monitors at workplaces inside the tower for outputting the video signal from numerous cameras and other devices. In addition, the commander and gunner must have the consoles necessary to control the gun and coaxial machine gun, anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles, as well as automatic grenade launchers. However, there is reason to believe that the firing of grenade launchers should be carried out without the use of remote control: the used twin installation simply does not have any mechanical drives.
The crew of the updated combat vehicle consists of three people: the driver, the commander and the gunner. The first is located inside the case, in its own department of management. At his disposal there is a hatchway with a diverting lid and a set of periscopes. The commander and gunner are in the tower and fall into place with the help of hatches in its roof. In this case, one of the tankers during landing must be careful not to hurt the additional rocket and grenade launchers.
The tactical and technical characteristics of the upgraded main tank “Chonma-216” remain secret. It can be assumed that in its dimensions it, in general, corresponds to the previous technique of the family and the basic Soviet T-62. The combat mass could reach the level of 40-45 t. The only passage through the square during the parade does not allow us to estimate the dynamic characteristics of the tank, not to mention the maximum mobility parameters. Apparently, on the highway, the tank is capable of reaching speeds of the order of 50-60 km / h and overcome various obstacles, including water obstacles.
Tanks "Chonma-216" go to the area named. Kim Il Sung. Broadcast frame
The newest upgraded version of the medium / main tank “Chonma-216” is of great interest, at least from the point of view of technology and original ideas underlying the project. The active development of tanks continues to this day, but radically new ideas and solutions have not appeared for quite some time. In particular, for several decades, methods of a radical modernization of the armament complex have not been proposed. North Korean specialists, in turn, have developed a very interesting version of the armament of the existing combat vehicle.
In addition to the standard cannon and machine gun, the upgraded tank from the DPRK received two twin automatic grenade launchers and two missile complexes for various purposes. Due to this, the combat vehicle is capable of attacking enemy tanks and armored vehicles at long distances with missiles or the main weapon. In addition, it has a certain potential in the fight against enemy aircraft. As for the destruction of manpower or unprotected enemy equipment, it can be carried out using three types of barreled weapons - depending on the current situation and various factors.
If you compare the upgraded tank with the previous machines of your family, then the advantages in the form of enhanced protection, more advanced weapons and newer means of observation, fire control, etc. become obvious. At the same time, the continuity of the structures leads to the fact that the “Chonma-216” has some common features with a number of predecessors.
From the point of view of the breadth of the range of combat tasks to be solved, the updated tank Chonma-216 has no competitors among foreign vehicles. This, in particular, provides certain advantages of an organizational and tactical nature. In particular, it can be assumed that the formations that are armed with such armored vehicles, have the opportunity to reduce the number of required self-propelled anti-aircraft installations, carrying out their protection from air attack.
Cars go past the rostrum of the DPRK leadership. Broadcast frame
Nevertheless, the most interesting combat armored vehicle is not devoid of several serious flaws, in one way or another reducing its real potential. Perhaps the main drawback of the updated tank is an obsolete platform. The medium tank T-62 was developed by Soviet specialists in the late fifties, and at the beginning of the next decade went into series. It had a number of major differences from its predecessors, but all its advantages were soon offset by the further development of armored vehicles. DPRK industry mastered the production of licensed T-62 after this machine had lost all its positive features.
Further modernization of the outdated tank, including the use of developments on the T-72 tank, made it possible to raise some of its characteristics to a certain extent. However, some parts and assemblies remain unchanged, which has corresponding negative consequences. The use of ready-made components and assemblies imposes certain restrictions on the development of technology, and also does not allow the use of new components with relative simplicity. In particular, it was for these reasons that the tanks shown in the parade could receive overhead booking details on top of the tower’s forehead. The use of the finished dome also led to the need to install additional supports for auxiliary weapons and viewing devices.
Another serious problem of the project lies in the unsuccessful combination of the number of transported weapons and crew. Thanks to the automatic loader, it was possible to reduce the crew to three people, which, however, leads to an increased load on the tank crews. Under the conditions of a real battle, “towers” will have to control five types of weapons of various types and purposes at once. For example, the commander and the gunner, having a large number of various devices, are now invited to monitor not only the situation on the ground, but also the air situation. Indeed, the Chonma-216 tank has the ability to independently attack enemy aircraft or helicopters, but the absence of individual air defense machines in the compound can significantly complicate the work of the tank crews. A similar claim can be made to the use of the other components of the updated weapons complex.
In general, the upgraded version of the medium-main tank Chonma-216 presented at the recent parade is a serious step forward for the North Korean defense industry. This combat vehicle looks favorably against the background of its predecessors, and also embodies the original ideas and demonstrates the ability of the DPRK to continue the development of armored vehicles. At the same time, the lack of truly modern platforms and the specifics of the proposed technical appearance lead to some negative consequences.
North Korea has traditionally not been in a hurry to disclose details of its latest developments, nor does it specify the specifics of their production and operation. As a result, at the moment one can only study fragmentary data and make predictions about the future of promising technology. The real assessment of North Korean tanks, including the upgraded Chonma-216 armored vehicles, is possible only as a result of real combat operations. However, obtaining detailed information about the tank is not worth such sacrifices. I would like to hope that the renewed tank “Chonma-216”, as well as its predecessors, will symbolize the DPRK combat power only at parades in the future.
On the materials of the sites:
https://rg.ru/
http://bmpd.livejournal.com/
http://imp-navigator.livejournal.com/
http://strangernn.livejournal.com/
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