T-72Z Safir-74
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| Safir-74 | |
|---|---|
| Type | Main battle tank |
| Place of origin | Iran |
| Service history | |
| Used by | Iran |
| Specifications | |
| Weight | 36 tonnes |
| Length | 6.45 m |
| Width | 3.37 m |
| Height | 2.40 m |
| Crew | 3-4 |
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| Armor | 203 mm front of the turret 150 mm sides of the turret 150 mm sides of the turret 64 mm rear of the turret 39 mm top of the turret 97 mm upper front of the hull 99 mm lower front of the hull 79 mm upper sides of the hull 20 mm lower sides of the hull 46 mm rear of the hull 20 mm floor of the hull fitted with ERA |
| Primary armament |
105mm M68 rifled tank gun |
| Secondary armament |
7.62mm co-axial and roof-mounted 12.7mm machine guns |
| Engine | V-46-6 V-12 diesel 780 hp (630 kW) |
| Power/weight | 21.66hp/tone |
| Suspension | Torsion bar |
| Speed | 65 km/h |
The T-72Z is a highly modernized version of the T-55, the upgrades have been done by the Defence Industries Organization of Iran. High combat performance of this tank can be defined by its very high and accurate fire power, very good maneuverability (mobility) and proper armour protection. The name Safir-74 is used to refer to the Iranian T-54 tanks which have gone through the same upgrades, while Type T-72z is used to refer to Iran's Type 59 tanks which have gone through this upgrade.
This tank should not be confused with the Soviet T-72 MBT.
[edit] Upgrades
Mounting a new armament system consisting of 105mm barrel gun model M68 with a long operational life, effective range, precision, high firing power and simple replacement without removal of the turret. Electronic Fire Control System (EFCS-3), as one of the most advanced fire control systems makes Type 72Z enjoy a high combat firing power in different condition of tank and targets at day and night.
Automatic/manual stabilizing and firing the gun improves firing capability of mobile tank at moving or stable target. Using V46-6 engine with 780 h.p, Type 72Z performs ideal acceleration and speed. Easy driving and maneuverability can be increased with semi-automatic and automatic gear shifting modes.
Installation of all power compartment; engine, gear box, brake, steering, transfer case, cooling system and hydraulic system in an assembly called “power pack" ensures lower repair time, quick mounting and dismantling of power pack. By employing reactive armour protection on this tank, protection against antitank weapons is increased.
