TTD

   The TTD or Tank Technology Demonstrator prototype main battle tank was completed in the early 1990s. It used some German Leopard 2 MBT technology and was intended to replace ageing South African MBTs. Only a prototype has been built and the TTD never went into service because of limited funding. This vehicle is currently kept at the Armor Museum. Some of the TTD subsystems were applied to the Olifant Mk.2. These upgraded MBTs are expected to serve well into the 21st century.

   The TTD has all-welded steel hull and turret. Vehicle is protected by a composite armor. No official details of the protection have been released,  however it was claimed that the front arc protects against APFSDS and HEAT rounds of unspecified caliber. All-round protection is against medium-caliber rounds. All critical subsystems are also protected against medium-caliber fire. Protection could be enhanced by modular add-on armor packages or ERA packages. Vehicle has improved protection against anti-tank mines.

   The Tank Technology Demonstrator is armed with a GT-7 105-mm rifled gun, which is similar to British L7 tank gun, mounted in the Olifant Mk.1B tank turret. This gun fires all standard NATO 105-mm tank ammunition. It has a rate of fire in 6 rounds per minute. It is worth mentioning that the turret of the TTD can accommodate larger LIW 120-mm smoothbore gun. Most of the rounds for the main gun is stored inside the turret bustle, separated from the crew by armored screen and fitted with blow-off panels. Loader automatically pre-selects ammunition type. This Olifant Mk.1B turret is compatible with application on Centurion and Chieftain main battle tanks, making this turret suitable for upgrading these tanks.

   Secondary armament consists of two 7.62-mm machine guns. One of them is mounted coaxially with the main gun, second is located on top of the roof.

   This prototype main battle tank is fitted with modern fire control system. It provides a good fire accuracy even on the move. Vehicle is also fitted with navigation and communication equipment.

   The Tank Technology Demonstrator has a crew of four, including commander, gunner, loader and driver.

   Vehicle is powered by unspecified turbocharged diesel engine, developing 1 250 hp. It was designed to operate away from workshop support and is capable of self-deploying over long distances.