China has developed an upgraded version of the VT-4 main battle tank, a platform currently utilized by the Pakistani military. According to a report by the South China Morning Post, the new variant—believed to be designated as the VT-4B—includes significant enhancements to its armament, armor, and sensor suites designed to address modern battlefield threats.
One of the most prominent modifications is the integration of a 30mm remotely operated weapon station, which replaces the standard 12.7mm machine gun found on earlier iterations. This larger weapon is intended to provide increased defensive capability against infantry, anti-tank teams, and aerial threats such as first-person-view drones and loitering munitions.
Visual evidence indicates that the VT-4B has received substantial armor reinforcement, with thicker explosive reactive armor covering the front hull and sides. The vehicle is also equipped with an active protection system, identified as the GL-6, which utilizes phased-array radar panels on the turret for 360-degree threat detection alongside interceptor launchers.
The tank’s situational awareness and communication systems have also seen upgrades. The commander’s sight has been replaced with a new electro-optical and infrared sensor pod, and the vehicle now features thicker antennas to support high-bandwidth data links. Military observers suggest that a small radio-frequency array mounted on the weapon station could potentially serve as an independent fire-control radar or a microwave emitter for disabling drones.
Key facts
- The VT-4B is expected to be displayed at the 16th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition from December 7 to 13.
- Pakistan signed a contract for 679 VT-4 tanks, produced under the name Haider, according to SIPRI 2022 data.
- The tank features four phased-array radar panels for 360-degree detection as part of its active protection system.
- Approximately 80% of the Pakistan military's equipment is estimated to originate from China.
Why it matters
The introduction of the VT-4B reflects China's ongoing efforts to integrate advanced technologies into its export-oriented armored vehicles. While the VT-4 is a key component of Pakistan's current armored fleet, it is not yet confirmed whether Islamabad intends to procure this specific upgraded variant.
Background
The VT-4 is a third-generation main battle tank primarily developed by China for export and is currently in service with the armies of Pakistan, Thailand, and Nigeria.
Source: Times of India
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