China to unveil upgraded VT-4 tank at Zhuhai Exhibition
At the Zhuhai Aviation Exhibition, China’s defense manufacturer NORINCO will present the latest version of its VT-4 main battle tank, featuring an advanced suite of anti-drone capabilities.
The upgraded model, designated VT-4A1, incorporates a drone jammer alongside other defensive enhancements, aimed at providing greater resilience against the increasing drone threat on modern battlefields.
NORINCO, China’s leading military contractor, developed the VT-4 specifically for export, marketing it as a third-generation main battle tank with robust armor and combat capability. The VT-4A1, an advancement of the VT-4 (MBT-3000) platform, is designed to counter the growing drone threat by integrating a remote weapon station (RWS), an active protection system (APS), and advanced electronic jamming technology.
Analysts suggest that NORINCO’s decision to include these features reflects lessons learned from ongoing conflicts, where drones have proven highly effective against armored vehicles. Reports indicate that the upgrades draw on battlefield experiences from recent conflicts, including observations of Russian forces facing a surge in drone usage in Ukraine.
The VT-4 family, which derives from China’s Type 90-II tank lineage, has seen steady improvements since its introduction. This latest model is geared to meet the evolving needs of international buyers looking for modern tank capabilities with enhanced protection in drone-dense environments.
