Achzarit

   The Achzarit heavy armored personnel carrier is in service with Israel Defense Forces since 1988. It is based on the captured T-54 and T-55 medium tanks of the Soviet origin. It is worth mentioning that Israel had in storage hundreds of these tanks, captured during combat operations. It was developed to meet a specific requirement of the IDF. Development commenced in the early 1980s. Developing this heavy APC the main emphasis was stressed on maximum armored protection for the troops. Production commenced in 1988.

   During conversion turret of the T-54/T-55 was removed and a new fighting compartment was created.

   The Achzarit can carry up to 7 troops, plus 3 crew members. There are a several roof hatches, but the main hatch for entry and exit is located at the rear of the hull from the right side. The original soviet engine was replaced by a smaller-size diesel unit, developed by the General Motors. Furthermore the engine was mounted transversally, so some room in the engine compartment was freed to make this exit hatch.

   The Achzarit was specially designed to operate alongside the well protected Merkava Mk.1 and Mk.2 main battle tanks. Hull of the medium tanks remains without significant changes, however protection was significantly improved by adding armor. This armored vehicle is fitted with individual NBC protection and automatic fire suppression systems. It is claimed, that Achzarit withstands 125-mm rounds at the front arc.

   Vehicle is armed with a Rafael OWS weapon station developed in Israel and containing an M240 7.62-mm machine gun. Machine gun is fired remotely from the inside of the vehicle. There are three additional 7.62-mm machine guns, mounted over the commander's hatch and two on the rear part of the roof. Approximately 4 000 7.62-mm rounds are carried. There is also a 60-mm mortar, which fires illuminating, smoke or anti-personnel grenades.

   The original Achzarit Mk.1 is powered by a Detroit Diesel 8V-71TA turbocharged diesel engine, developing 650 hp. Some changes were made to the medium tanks suspension and chassis. Suspension upgrade resulted in better cross-county mobility. This heavy APC is not amphibious but with a short preparation can ford water obstacles up to 4 m deep.

   Some sources claim, that there is a command post version of the Achzarit, which lacks roof-mounted machine guns, but is fitted with additional communications equipment.

Variants

   Achzarit Mk.2, powered by a more powerful Detroit Diesel 8V-92TA turbocharged diesel engine, developing 850 hp. It is worth mentioning that the Achzarit Mk.1 was considered underpowered. This heavy APC is fitted with a Rafael OWS remotely controlled weapon station, armed with 7.62-mm machine gun. This variant is also fitted with a bulletproof glass turret.