Difference between revisions of "ZTZ59A"

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{{About
 +
| about = premium Chinese medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
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| usage = other versions
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| link = ZTZ59 (Family)
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}}
 
{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=cn_ztz_59a
 
|code=cn_ztz_59a
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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium rank {{Specs|rank}} Chinese medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Ground Breaking"]].
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (Chinese: [ZTZ]59A式中型坦克 or 59-I式中型坦克; industry code WZ120A) was the first major revision for the Type 59 in PLAGF service. The plans for this revision was based on the suggestions gathered from the armored corps during the Sino-Vietnamese War to upgrading the existing fleet with new FCS and suspensions before the later 59-II (59B) with 105 mm gun could enter service; the upgrades included IR searchlight, LRF and new FCS with automatic ballistic solutions for faster acquisition, side fences and smoke grenade launchers by the turret, as well as new APFSDS for better penetration. The upgraded tank was certified in 1984 and became the placeholder upgrades during the modernization of PLA.
  
−
Based on the long-existing [[Type 59]] and upgraded with technologies from [[Type 69]], although the basis of Type 59 is obsolete to later MBTs, it also came with some sufficient upgrades that could help this old tank finding its second life with laser rangefinder and automatic ballistic chart linked to the rangefinder which gives it a chance to stay away from heated battlefield and strike enemies further away, enhancing its survivability in long term.
+
Introduced in [[Update "Ground Breaking"]] as a GE premium for PLAGF, the ZTZ59A is based on the long-existing [[Type 59]] and upgraded with some technologies from [[Type 69]]. Although the Type 59 chassis is rather outdated compared to later MBTs, or indeed many of its contemporaries in War Thunder, the ZTZ59A has some improvements that extend its lease on life somewhat. A laser rangefinder allows it to stay away from the heated battlefield and strike enemies from further away and a pair of barrel-type smoke grenades are available, enhancing its survivability and offering a straight upgrade to the tech tree Type 59.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
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{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
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To make things short and clear: ZTZ59A has NO protection upgrades over its basis other than additional skirts to the sides, which doesn't help enhancing its protection; so its characteristic is basically identical to its non-premium cousin.
 
  
−
The armour layout of the ZTZ59A is identical to the T-54 (1951), having a rounded, egg-shaped turret with a highly sloped upper glacis. The armour is not bad per se, but most of its opponents use powerful APDS, APFSDS, or HEAT-FS rounds that can go right through it, an issue made worse by the fact that the Type 59 currently has a higher battle rating than the T-54. While it is mostly immune to APHE rounds from the front, few vehicles use them at its rank, and those that do are typically from the Soviet Union and unlikely to face the Type 59 in Realistic Battles. The full-caliber AP shells fired by the [[M103]]'s 120 mm gun can penetrate the ZTZ59A's hull armour quite easily.
+
The ZTZ59A's armour layout is nearly identical to the Type 59, which itself had virtually the same armour layout as the [[T-54 (1951)]]. It is well protected against typical autocannons and most conventional full-calibre rounds, but falls short against HEAT, APDS, and APFSDS. The only real differences from the Type 59 are the side skirts, familiar to players who have used the [[ZTZ59D1]] or [[T-69 II G]]. They do almost nothing against kinetic projectiles but can be helpful against HEAT warheads with some angling, acting as spaced armour. This is particularly noticeable with weaker HEATFS rounds in the 73 mm - 90 mm size range.
  
−
Post-penetration survivability is questionable. Ammunition is scattered around the tank and none of the ammo racks are protected. The interior of the tank is cramped and penetrating hits are likely to take out multiple crew members. When the gun is pointed forward, the driver, gunner, and commander are all lined up for an easy one-shot kill.
+
'''Armour type:'''
  
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'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
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* Rolled homogeneous armour (hull, turret roof, cupola roof)
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<!-- Example: * Rolled homogeneous armour (Front, Side, Rear, Hull roof)
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* Cast homogeneous armour (turret, gun mantlet, cupola)
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* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret, Transmission area) -->
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* Rubber-fabric screens (side skirts)
  
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
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! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Hull || ___ mm || ___ mm ''Top'' <br> ___ mm ''Bottom'' || ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm
+
| Hull || 100 mm (60°) ''Front glacis'' <br> 100 mm (54°) ''Lower glacis'' || 80+3 mm ''Top'' <br> 20 mm + 20 mm (31°) ''Bottom'' || 45 mm (16°) ''Upper plate'' <br> 30 mm (72°) ''Lower glacis'' || 100 mm (30°) ''Front glacis'' <br> 30 mm ''Crew compartment'' <br> 20 mm ''Engine compartment'' <br> 5 mm ''Engine vents''
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Turret || ___ - ___ mm ''Turret front'' <br> ___ mm ''Gun mantlet'' || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm
+
| Turret || 160 mm (14-39°) ''Turret front'' <br> 150-250 mm (4-78°) ''Gun mantlet'' || 115-155 mm (24-45°) ''Front and centre'' <br> 100 mm (18-38°) ''Rear'' || 65 mm (14°) || 30-60 mm
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Cupola || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm
+
| Cupola || 100 mm (34-66°) || 100 mm (27-66°) || 100 mm (25-66°) || 30-40 mm
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
'''Notes:'''
  
−
'''Notes:''' <!-- Any additional notes which the user needs to be aware of -->
+
* Tracks and suspension wheels are 20 mm thick.
−
<!-- Example: * Suspension wheels are 20 mm thick, tracks are 30 mm thick, and torsion bars are 60 mm thick. -->
+
* Spare track links on the upper glacis provide an addition 20 mm of armour.
 +
* Mudguards and storage boxes are 4 mm thick.
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
 
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
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Due to the nature of being a Type 59, the mobility part is as well totally identical to the former.
 
  
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The mobility of the ZTZ59A is the same as the Type 59, decent to good but not the best. The top speed will only be reached on paved surfaces. The wide tracks make for fairly good off-road capability. The tank cannot turn in place and the reverse speed of -7 km/h leaves much to be desired. Speedy MBTs like the [[Leopard I]] will easily outrun the ZTZ59A , though it can keep up with the [[M60]] and is still faster than the [[Centurion Mk 10]].
+
The ZTZ59A has exactly the same mobility characteristics as the Type 59, with the same weight and engine power. It has decent forward mobility and the wide tracks allow it to perform well on rough terrain. The poor reverse speed and lack of neutral steering are major drawbacks, but the hull traverse is quite decent. It is easily beaten by light tanks and fast MBTs such as Leopards and OF-40s, so it is safe to assume that the ZTZ59A will not be the first to arrive on the battlefield.
  
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{{tankMobility}}
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{{tankMobility|abMinHp=806|rbMinHp=460}}
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
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<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
 
{{main|Type 59 (100 mm)}}
 
{{main|Type 59 (100 mm)}}
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The ZTZ59A variant didn't improve its firepower either, other than having a laser rangefinder while vastly boost its capabilities on handling long-range targets; so the handling of the weapons are the same as well.
 
−
 
−
The Type 59 cannon is identical to the original Soviet D-10T used by the [[T-54 (1951)]] aside from its stabilizer and different choice of ammunition. The turret rotation speed is very poor, making it hard to respond to ambushes and proving to be a liability in urban combat. The vertical stabilizer allows the ZTZ59A to shoot accurately when driving under 40 km/h; alternatively you can utilize the laser rangefinder onboard keep yourself away from the battlefield with fair accuracy. The reload is quite slow and the average medium tank at the Type 59's battle rating will reload around 2 seconds quicker.
 
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
−
| rowspan="2" | 34 || rowspan="2" | -4°/+17° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Vertical|up to 40 km/h}} || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__
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| rowspan="2" | 34 || rowspan="2" | -5°/+18° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Vertical|up to 40 km/h}} || 9.5 || 13.2 || 16.0 || 17.7 || 18.8 || rowspan="2" | 9.75 || rowspan="2" | 8.62 || rowspan="2" | 7.95 || rowspan="2" | 7.50
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
−
| __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._
+
| 5.9 || 7.0 || 8.5 || 9.4 || 10.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
{{:Type 59 (100 mm)/Ammunition|BR-412, BR-412D, Type 1959 APDS, Type 1973 HEAT-FS, OF-412}}
−
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
−
! colspan="6" | Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
 
−
|-
 
−
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
 
−
|-
 
−
| BR-412 || APHE ||218||212||190||164||143||124
 
−
|-
 
−
| BR-412D || APCBC ||239||236||220||202||186||170
 
−
|-
 
−
| Type 1959 APDS || APDS ||299||298||291||272||253||249
 
−
|-
 
−
| Type 1973 HEAT-FS || HEATFS ||390||390||390||390||390||390
 
−
|-
 
−
| OF-412 || HE ||19||19||19||19||19||19
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
−
! colspan="10" | Shell details
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Velocity<br>(m/s)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Projectile<br>Mass (kg)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay<br>(m)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity<br>(mm)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass<br>(TNT equivalent) (g)
 
−
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
 
−
|-
 
−
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
 
−
|-
 
−
| BR-412 || APHE ||895||15.9||1.2||19||100.1||47°||60°||65°
 
−
|-
 
−
| BR-412D || APCBC ||887||15.9||1.2||19||93.94||48°||63°||71°
 
−
|-
 
−
| Type 1959 APDS || APDS ||1,432||3.18||N/A||N/A||N/A||75°||78°||80°
 
−
|-
 
−
| Type 1973 HEAT-FS || HEATFS ||1,000||10.05||0.05||0.1||1,180||65°||72°||77°
 
−
|-
 
−
| OF-412 || HE ||900||15.6||0||0.1||1,460||79°||80°||81°
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
Other than missing our BR-412B and 412P shells from the original Type 59, the remaining shells are totally identical to the former.
 
−
 
 
−
The stock round is the BR-412 APHE. An uncapped shell, its performance is rather substandard for its rank and it might have difficulties against angled armour or at long distances. The BR-412B APHEBC round is slightly better at a distance and the BR-412D APCBC round is the best of the AP shells overall. These shells are best used against lightly armoured tanks like the [[Leopard I]] and [[AMX-30 (1972)|AMX-30]]. Light tanks and SPAAs are also good targets, but some may have extremely thin armour that will not trigger the fuse.
 
−
 
 
−
The Type 1959 APDS has identical penetration to the Soviet 3BM-8 APDS round with minor differences in the weight and muzzle velocity. The performance is generally comparable to the DM13 APDS. It has a high muzzle velocity and is thus the easiest to use at long distance, but the post-penetration damage is somewhat underwhelming.
 
−
 
 
−
The Type 1973 HEAT-FS has the same penetration as the T-55A's 3BK-5M HEAT-FS round. The muzzle velocity and weight are between the 3BK-5M and 3BK-5, but it has about 260 fewer grams of TNT equivalent due to the different filler. In practice, there is not a significant difference, and the HEAT-FS boasts the highest penetration out of all of the Type 59's rounds including ZTZ59A, going clean through almost any tank not equipped with composite armour or ERA. It is also capable of causing hull-breaks on light tanks and SPAAs. Unfortunately, the fuse is very sensitive and will trigger on bushes and fences.
 
  
−
The OF-412 HE shell only has 26 mm of penetration and is of limited utility. It is not large enough to cause any notable damage to MBTs, and while it can cause hull-breaks, so can the HEAT-FS.
+
The ZTZ59A's ammo selection is mostly identical to the Type 59. As usual, the BR-412D APCBC round is highly effective against lightly armoured targets such as light tanks and Leopard 1s, successful penetrations usually resulting in instant knockouts. It also works very well for flanking shots. The Type 1959 APDS round has the highest muzzle velocity and impressive flat penetration, but the limited angled penetration can be an issue against the hull armour of heavy tanks (and even some medium tanks).The Type 1973 HEAT-FS round has the best penetration and can counter just about any vehicle with steel armour, but has a sensitive fuse and can be stopped by ERA or composite armour.
  
−
But just like his non-premium cousin, it doesn't come with 3D3 smoke shells that is provided on Soviet's T-54s.
+
The BR-412 APHE shell is worse than BR-412D in every practical way and should be disregarded because the ZTZ59A is a premium tank with all ammo types unlocked from the start. The OF-412 HE shell is technically the best option for triggering overpressure damage against light targets, but it has no utility against targets with half-decent armour and the HEATFS is more versatile. The ZTZ59A does not have access to the Type 59's BR-412B APHEBC round, but that round is again inferior to BR-412D in practical terms and its absence will not be missed.
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
−
<!-- [[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]] -->
+
[[File:Ammoracks_T-54_(1951).png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the T-54 (1951) (identical).]]
−
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
+
<!-- '''Last updated: 2.11.0.71''' -->
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
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! 6th<br>rack empty
 
! 6th<br>rack empty
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
−
!
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''34''' ||'''34'''||33 ''(+1)''||28 ''(+6)''||23 ''(+10)''||22 ''(+11)''||21 ''(+13)''||1 ''(+33)''
+
| '''34''' || 33&nbsp;''(+1)'' || 28&nbsp;''(+6)'' || 24&nbsp;''(+10)'' || 23&nbsp;''(+11)'' || 21&nbsp;''(+13)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+33)'' || No
−
|No
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
−
The ammunition storage of the ZTZ59A is not exactly safe just like all the Type 59 family, but to be fair, this applies to many contemporary tanks. Spare rounds are littered around the turret and fighting compartment, and there is a large rack next to the driver. It's best to take fewer rounds to at least clear out the turret. Carrying 21 rounds or fewer will completely empty the fighting compartment, which helps to prevent side-aspect shots from being instantly fatal.
+
'''Notes''':
 +
 
 +
* Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
 +
* Rack 6 is a first stage ammo rack. It totals 20 shells and gets filled first when loading up the tank.
 +
* This rack is also emptied early: the rack depletion order at full capacity is: 6 - 1 - 2 - etc. until 5.
 +
* Full reload speed will be realized as long as shells are available in the ready rack 6. If the ready rack is empty, a penalty to reload speed will occur.
 +
* Simply not firing when the gun is loaded will move ammo from racks 1-5 into rack 6. Firing will interrupt the restocking of the ready rack.
 +
* If you pack 28&nbsp;''(+6)'', it will keep the turret empty of ammo.
 +
* If you pack 21&nbsp;''(+13)'' shells, it will keep most of the hull empty of ammo.
  
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}
 
<!-- ''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.'' -->
−
{{main|DShK (12.7 mm)|SGMT (7.62 mm)}}
+
{{main|Type 54 (12.7 mm)|SGMT (7.62 mm)}}
−
 
 
−
''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.''
 
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | [[DShK (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm DShK]]
+
! colspan="5" | [[Type 54 (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm Type 54]]
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
|-
 
|-
−
|Pintle||500 (50)||600||-10°/+60°||±180°
+
| Pintle || 500 (50) || 600 || -4°/+82° || ±180°
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
|-
 
|-
−
|Coaxial||3,000 (250)||600||N/A||N/A
+
| Coaxial || 3,000 (250) || 600 || - || -
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
−
Aside from the laser rangefinder, the ZTZ59A plays pretty identical to a Type 59 with some alternative playstyle.
 
−
 
−
The ZTZ59A is best used similarly to the original Type 59 or Soviet T-54S. The mobility is decent, but the turret rotation speed and gun elevation speed are quite agonizing. For those not used to this vehicle, it is better not to rush straight into the combat zone. Instead, stay behind other teammates, keep an eye on the surroundings, and anticipate where enemies may appear. Alternatively, you can stay away from the battlefield thanks to the laser rangefinder strapped on the centre line of the tank, and comes with automatic ballistic chart; so for those who concerns about its protection or had suffered from Type 59's incapable of long-range shootings, ZTZ59A solved this problem to some extent. The vertical stabilizer, an oddity for a high-tier vehicle, is effective up to around 40 km/h, which is a major step up from the familiar vertical stabilizers used by the M4 Sherman family and practically equivalent to two-plane stabilizer under most circumstances; the  ZTZ59A will typically only exceed 40 km/h when driving downhill or on roads. Still, the crippling gun handling makes high-speed shooting risky since the turret will struggle with the rapid aim adjustments required. The stabilizer is a significant advantage when fighting unstabilized tanks since the gun does not need to settle before an accurate shot. Keep the gun pointed towards possible enemy positions and remember to turn the hull as well as the turret when rapid adjustments in aim are needed.
 
−
 
−
Helicopters start to become common around the ZTZ59A's battle rating and can be a major threat if equipped with rockets or ATGMs. The ZTZ59A has limited options for offense or defense against helicopters since it has poor gun handling and no smoke grenades. The APDS might be able to take out very inattentive helicopter pilots with good aim and a healthy dose of luck. If they get closer, the heavy machine gun may be able to destroy or scare off unarmoured helicopters. When all else fails, hide behind buildings or among trees
 
−
 
−
Stay close to teammates if possible. The slow reload and poor gun handling make dealing with multiple enemies or flankers a difficult task without backup. A fast light tank, SPAA, or armoured car can circle around the Type 59 faster than it can react. It helps to bind the cupola mounted heavy machine gun to a separate key in case this happens; the DShK rotates fairly quickly and will rip through the sides of light targets like the [[AUBL/74 HVG]] with ease. If a healthy distance is maintained, the ZTZ59A has an easier time coping with its poor gun handling.
 
−
 
−
Pay attention to the battlefield and identify enemy tanks ahead of time. This allows the gun to be wrangled into position and the appropriate choice of ammunition to be selected. Thinly armoured enemies should typically be targeted with the APCBC round. Scoring one-shot kills is very helpful for the ZTZ59A since the slow reload makes follow-up shots risky. It is worth remembering that although the [[OF-40]], [[STB-1]], and [[Leopard A1A1]] look very similar to the [[Leopard I]], they are significantly more resistant to conventional rounds from the front. Shoot the OF-40 in the lower glacis, the STB-1 in the upper glacis (close to the turret ring) or gun mantlet, and the A1A1 in the hull.
 
  
−
Tanks with good protection as often seen in US, British, and Soviet models should be dealt with using APDS or HEAT-FS if sideshots are not possible. HEAT-FS is typically the better option since it has higher penetration and can be used to hull-break light targets in a pinch, but APDS is easier to aim at long distances (especially important since the ZTZ59A has no dedicated rangefinder) and cannot be stopped by ERA. Take some of both, perhaps more APDS on large maps. Aim for crew members and ammo racks when using these ammunition types.
+
The ZTZ59A is essentially a [[Type 59]] with a laser rangefinder and smoke grenades. Most of the tactics and advice for the Type 59 still apply, but it is more competent in long range combat and can work as a good sniper as a supplement to the [[Type 69]]. The laser rangefinder allows for precise long-range shots to be made with any ammunition type; Type 59 veterans may have relied heavily on the high-velocity APDS, but the ZTZ59A can comfortably sling APCBC and HEATFS rounds from across the map as well. The ZTZ59A can be argued to have superior armament to the Type 69, because its APDS has higher penetration than the Type 69's APFSDS under most circumstances and their HEATFS rounds are identical.
  
−
This ZTZ59A still omitted the night vision systems like the original Type 59, so it must rely on illumination flares for vision in night battles. The [[Type 69]] is much more self-sufficient in this regard, so consider using that tank first if it is present in the lineup.
+
Bear in mind that the ZTZ59A does not have the Type 69's improved turret drive or engine, so it is less mobile and has a difficult time reacting to ambushes. These weakness can be mitigated if one maintains some separation from the front lines. In close range engagements, remember to utilize the hull traverse as well as the turret traverse to quickly adjust one's aim. The smoke grenades are also nice for covering retreats because the basic Type 59 has no sources of smoke whatsoever, though keep in mind that they are barrels mounted on the back of the tank and are not the best for instant concealment while reversing into cover.
  
−
Overall, the Type 59 faces many challenges at its current battle rating, often being uptiered and having to deal with tanks far more advanced than it. Still, it is satisfying to destroy a thermal-equipped, APFSDS-slinging MBT from the late 1980s with a tank first produced in 1958, using an APCBC round introduced in 1951.
+
The ZTZ59A does not bring anything drastically new to the table, but as a direct improvement to the Type 59, it is a good addition to the already impressive Chinese ground lineup at this BR bracket. Partnering it with the Type 69 gives one access to two MBTs with laser rangefinder, and because the Type 69 is more suited for front line work, the ZTZ59A can be preferentially used for laid back sniping.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
Line 207: Line 153:
  
 
* Has a range of good ammo: explosive AP, piercing HEAT, and APDS
 
* Has a range of good ammo: explosive AP, piercing HEAT, and APDS
−
* 200mm frontal effective thickness is immune to SPAA or low tier tanks firing full-caliber kenitic shells
+
* 200 mm frontal effective thickness is immune to SPAA (e.g. [[Gepard]]) or low-tier tanks firing full-calibre kinetic shells
 
* Laser rangefinder allows it to engage distant targets easily
 
* Laser rangefinder allows it to engage distant targets easily
−
* Roof-mounted 12.7mm HMG is deadly against light vehicles (eg. [[AML-90]], [[M551]]) and some low/slow aircraft  
+
* Roof-mounted 12.7 mm HMG is deadly against light vehicles (e.g. [[AML-90]], [[M551]]) and some low-flying or slow aircraft
 +
* Has smoke grenades
 +
* Sideskirts offer some protection against HEAT shells and explosion shrapnel
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Slow turret traverse and elevation speed limits targeting rate. Fatal in surprise engagments
+
* No night vision device, fatal flaw in night battles against NVD- (or even thermal-) equipped foes like [[Type 74 (G)]]
 +
* Slow turret traverse and elevation speed limits targeting rate. Fatal in surprise engagements
 
* Poor mobility overall, meaning low agility and responsiveness to changing situations
 
* Poor mobility overall, meaning low agility and responsiveness to changing situations
−
* Armour is still inadequate to stop common HEATFS or APFSDS (eg. [[Leopard 1 (Family)|Leopard 1]], [[T-55AM-1|T-55AM]], [[OF-40 (Family)|OF-40]])
+
* Armour is still inadequate to stop common HEATFS or APFSDS (e.g. [[Leopard 1 (Family)|Leopard 1]], [[T-55AM-1|T-55AM]], [[OF-40 (Family)|OF-40]])
−
* Limiting gun depression of -4° hinders its capacity in uneven battlefield
+
* Limiting gun depression of -5° hinders its capacity in uneven battlefield
 
* Terrible reverse speed of -7 km/h prevents it from getting out of danger quickly
 
* Terrible reverse speed of -7 km/h prevents it from getting out of danger quickly
 +
* Smoke grenades discharge behind the tank, can't conceal the tank very well
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
−
The [[Type 59]] (ZTZ59, WZ120) has been the backbone of PLAGF for many decades, although with some infamous political incident in late 1980s, the chassis itself still received quite some upgrades throughout its service and the ZTZ59A (alternatively called ZTZ59-I in earlier naming system) is the first major upgrade over Type 59.
+
The [[Type 59]] (ZTZ59, WZ120) has been the backbone of PLAGF for many decades. The chassis itself received many upgrades throughout its service and the ZTZ59A (alternatively called ZTZ59-I in the earlier naming system) is the first major upgrade over Type 59.
 +
 
 +
During the Sino-Vietnamese conflict in the late 1970s, PLAGF had found some problems with the original Type 59 and suggestions were handed to the 5th Ministry of Machine Building (第五机械工业部) for possible upgrades; meanwhile it was the era of economic reform and normalisation of relationships with Western countries. Although new tanks and refurbishment of older tanks with NATO L7 105 mm guns were planned, the mass of original Type 59s could still use some upgrades as well. In 1984, the ZTZ59A upgrade program passed state certifications: the upgrade included hydraulic steering, which provided the driver with better control and lighter force to move than the previous torsion bar steering; a Model 6610 IR searchlight mounted on the front of the chassis; FCS upgrades with Type 73 laser rangefinder from Type 69 mounted on the centre line of the tank by the mantlet, TSFCS with automatic ballistic solution; and side skirts. A new APFSDS was also developed for the gun, said to be on-par with Soviet 3BM25. Some parts of the tank were also revised from the suggestions of frontline troops, sub-systems were aimed to be more reliable and ergonomic. Some of the later ZTZ59A that had received such upgrades were also tested with different designs such as a two-plane stabiliser for the gun and welding extra fences onto the turret, while some received a smoke grenade launcher upgrade on the turret.
  
−
During the Sino-Vietnamese conflict in late 1970s, PLAGF had found some problems on the original Type 59 and was handed to the 5th Ministry of Machine Building (第五机械工业部) for possible upgrades; meanwhile it was the era where the economic reform and normalize of relationships to western countries, although they have planned for new tanks and refurbishment of older tanks with NATO L7 105 mm gun, the mass of original Type 59 could still use some upgrades as well. Then in 1984, the ZTZ59A upgrade program has passed state certifications; the upgrade included a hydraulic steering, an IR searchlight mounted on the front of the chassis as well as FCS upgrades with a laser rangefinder from Type 69 as well as automatic ballistic chart. Some of the later ZTZ59A that had received such upgrades had also tested with different designs such as a two-plane stabilizator for the gun and welding extra fences onto the turret, while some received a smoke grenade launcher upgrade on the turret.  
+
Although the gap between the mainstream 1980s MBTs and ZTZ59A was still huge, ZTZ59A also became the basis of more ergonomic sub-system designs of PLAGF tanks, as well as simplified maintenance; filling the gap while waiting for the newer ZTZ59-II with a brand new British FCS system and [[L7A3 (105 mm)|L7A3]] to replace them.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
−
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
+
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=cn_ztz_59a Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==

Latest revision as of 05:23, 8 January 2024

This page is about the premium Chinese medium tank ZTZ59A. For other versions, see ZTZ59 (Family).
ZTZ59A
cn_ztz_59a.png
GarageImage ZTZ59A.jpg
ZTZ59A
China flag.png China
V Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
8.0 8.0 8.0
Class:
PREMIUM
Purchase:8 200 Specs-Card-Eagle.png
Show in game

Description

The ZhuangJia Tanke ZhuZhan 59A (Chinese: [ZTZ]59A式中型坦克 or 59-I式中型坦克; industry code WZ120A) was the first major revision for the Type 59 in PLAGF service. The plans for this revision was based on the suggestions gathered from the armored corps during the Sino-Vietnamese War to upgrading the existing fleet with new FCS and suspensions before the later 59-II (59B) with 105 mm gun could enter service; the upgrades included IR searchlight, LRF and new FCS with automatic ballistic solutions for faster acquisition, side fences and smoke grenade launchers by the turret, as well as new APFSDS for better penetration. The upgraded tank was certified in 1984 and became the placeholder upgrades during the modernization of PLA.

Introduced in Update "Ground Breaking" as a GE premium for PLAGF, the ZTZ59A is based on the long-existing Type 59 and upgraded with some technologies from Type 69. Although the Type 59 chassis is rather outdated compared to later MBTs, or indeed many of its contemporaries in War Thunder, the ZTZ59A has some improvements that extend its lease on life somewhat. A laser rangefinder allows it to stay away from the heated battlefield and strike enemies from further away and a pair of barrel-type smoke grenades are available, enhancing its survivability and offering a straight upgrade to the tech tree Type 59.

General info

Survivability and armour

Smoke grenades
Creation of a smoke screen in front of the vehicle
Armourfront / side / back
Hull100 / 80 / 45
Turret200 / 155 / 65
Crew4 people
Visibility83 %

The ZTZ59A's armour layout is nearly identical to the Type 59, which itself had virtually the same armour layout as the T-54 (1951). It is well protected against typical autocannons and most conventional full-calibre rounds, but falls short against HEAT, APDS, and APFSDS. The only real differences from the Type 59 are the side skirts, familiar to players who have used the ZTZ59D1 or T-69 II G. They do almost nothing against kinetic projectiles but can be helpful against HEAT warheads with some angling, acting as spaced armour. This is particularly noticeable with weaker HEATFS rounds in the 73 mm - 90 mm size range.

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour (hull, turret roof, cupola roof)
  • Cast homogeneous armour (turret, gun mantlet, cupola)
  • Rubber-fabric screens (side skirts)
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 100 mm (60°) Front glacis
100 mm (54°) Lower glacis 		80+3 mm Top
20 mm + 20 mm (31°) Bottom 		45 mm (16°) Upper plate
30 mm (72°) Lower glacis 		100 mm (30°) Front glacis
30 mm Crew compartment
20 mm Engine compartment
5 mm Engine vents
Turret 160 mm (14-39°) Turret front
150-250 mm (4-78°) Gun mantlet 		115-155 mm (24-45°) Front and centre
100 mm (18-38°) Rear 		65 mm (14°) 30-60 mm
Cupola 100 mm (34-66°) 100 mm (27-66°) 100 mm (25-66°) 30-40 mm

Notes:

  • Tracks and suspension wheels are 20 mm thick.
  • Spare track links on the upper glacis provide an addition 20 mm of armour.
  • Mudguards and storage boxes are 4 mm thick.

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB56 / 9 km/h
RB and SB51 / 8 km/h
Number of gears5 forward
1 back
Weight36.0 t
Engine power
AB992 hp
RB and SB520 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB27.6 hp/t
RB and SB14.4 hp/t

The ZTZ59A has exactly the same mobility characteristics as the Type 59, with the same weight and engine power. It has decent forward mobility and the wide tracks allow it to perform well on rough terrain. The poor reverse speed and lack of neutral steering are major drawbacks, but the hull traverse is quite decent. It is easily beaten by light tanks and fast MBTs such as Leopards and OF-40s, so it is safe to assume that the ZTZ59A will not be the first to arrive on the battlefield.

Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 56 9 36 806 992 22.39 27.56
Realistic 51 8 460 520 12.78 14.44

Modifications and economy

Repair cost
AB2 818 Sl icon.png
RB3 225 Sl icon.png
SB4 391 Sl icon.png
Crew training10 000 Sl icon.png
Experts490 000 Sl icon.png
Aces1 200 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 440 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
Talisman.png 2 × 130 / 200 / 230 % Sl icon.png
Talisman.png 2 × 196 / 196 / 196 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Mods tank reinforcement cn.png
Crew Replenishment
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Mods tank laser rangefinder.png
Laser rangefinder
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Mods tank ammo.png
100mm_APCBC_ammo_pack
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Mods tank ammo.png
100mm_APDS_ammo_pack
Mods tank ammo.png
100mm_cn_HEAT_ammo_pack

Armaments

Laser rangefinder
Reduces the error and increases the maximum measurable distance of the rangefinder

Main armament

100 mm Type 59 cannon
Vertical stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in one plane while moving
Ammunition34 rounds
First-order20 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
9.7 → 7.5 s
Vertical guidance-5° / 18°
Main article: Type 59 (100 mm)
100 mm Type 59 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 34 -5°/+18° ±180° Vertical 9.5 13.2 16.0 17.7 18.8 9.75 8.62 7.95 7.50
Realistic 5.9 7.0 8.5 9.4 10.0

Ammunition

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
BR-412 APHE 218 212 189 164 142 124
BR-412D APCBC 239 236 220 202 185 170
Type 59 APDS APDS 361 356 335 311 288 267
Type 1973 HEAT-FS HEATFS 390 390 390 390 390 390
OF-412 HE 27 27 26 24 23 21
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
BR-412 APHE 895 15.88 1.2 19 100.1 47° 60° 65°
BR-412D APCBC 887 15.88 1.2 19 100.1 48° 63° 71°
Type 59 APDS APDS 1,432 3.18 - - - 75° 78° 80°
Type 1973 HEAT-FS HEATFS 1,000 10.05 0.05 0.1 1,180 65° 72° 77°
OF-412 HE 900 15.6 0.2 0.1 1,460 79° 80° 81°

The ZTZ59A's ammo selection is mostly identical to the Type 59. As usual, the BR-412D APCBC round is highly effective against lightly armoured targets such as light tanks and Leopard 1s, successful penetrations usually resulting in instant knockouts. It also works very well for flanking shots. The Type 1959 APDS round has the highest muzzle velocity and impressive flat penetration, but the limited angled penetration can be an issue against the hull armour of heavy tanks (and even some medium tanks).The Type 1973 HEAT-FS round has the best penetration and can counter just about any vehicle with steel armour, but has a sensitive fuse and can be stopped by ERA or composite armour.

The BR-412 APHE shell is worse than BR-412D in every practical way and should be disregarded because the ZTZ59A is a premium tank with all ammo types unlocked from the start. The OF-412 HE shell is technically the best option for triggering overpressure damage against light targets, but it has no utility against targets with half-decent armour and the HEATFS is more versatile. The ZTZ59A does not have access to the Type 59's BR-412B APHEBC round, but that round is again inferior to BR-412D in practical terms and its absence will not be missed.

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the T-54 (1951) (identical).
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		5th
rack empty 		6th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
34 33 (+1) 28 (+6) 24 (+10) 23 (+11) 21 (+13) 1 (+33) No

Notes:

  • Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
  • Rack 6 is a first stage ammo rack. It totals 20 shells and gets filled first when loading up the tank.
  • This rack is also emptied early: the rack depletion order at full capacity is: 6 - 1 - 2 - etc. until 5.
  • Full reload speed will be realized as long as shells are available in the ready rack 6. If the ready rack is empty, a penalty to reload speed will occur.
  • Simply not firing when the gun is loaded will move ammo from racks 1-5 into rack 6. Firing will interrupt the restocking of the ready rack.
  • If you pack 28 (+6), it will keep the turret empty of ammo.
  • If you pack 21 (+13) shells, it will keep most of the hull empty of ammo.

Machine guns

12.7 mm Type 54 machine gun
Ammunition500 rounds
Belt capacity50 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate600 shots/min
Vertical guidance-4° / 82°
7.62 mm Type 59 machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition3 000 rounds
Belt capacity250 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate600 shots/min
Main articles: Type 54 (12.7 mm), SGMT (7.62 mm)
12.7 mm Type 54
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Pintle 500 (50) 600 -4°/+82° ±180°
7.62 mm SGMT
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 3,000 (250) 600 - -

Usage in battles

The ZTZ59A is essentially a Type 59 with a laser rangefinder and smoke grenades. Most of the tactics and advice for the Type 59 still apply, but it is more competent in long range combat and can work as a good sniper as a supplement to the Type 69. The laser rangefinder allows for precise long-range shots to be made with any ammunition type; Type 59 veterans may have relied heavily on the high-velocity APDS, but the ZTZ59A can comfortably sling APCBC and HEATFS rounds from across the map as well. The ZTZ59A can be argued to have superior armament to the Type 69, because its APDS has higher penetration than the Type 69's APFSDS under most circumstances and their HEATFS rounds are identical.

Bear in mind that the ZTZ59A does not have the Type 69's improved turret drive or engine, so it is less mobile and has a difficult time reacting to ambushes. These weakness can be mitigated if one maintains some separation from the front lines. In close range engagements, remember to utilize the hull traverse as well as the turret traverse to quickly adjust one's aim. The smoke grenades are also nice for covering retreats because the basic Type 59 has no sources of smoke whatsoever, though keep in mind that they are barrels mounted on the back of the tank and are not the best for instant concealment while reversing into cover.

The ZTZ59A does not bring anything drastically new to the table, but as a direct improvement to the Type 59, it is a good addition to the already impressive Chinese ground lineup at this BR bracket. Partnering it with the Type 69 gives one access to two MBTs with laser rangefinder, and because the Type 69 is more suited for front line work, the ZTZ59A can be preferentially used for laid back sniping.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Has a range of good ammo: explosive AP, piercing HEAT, and APDS
  • 200 mm frontal effective thickness is immune to SPAA (e.g. Gepard) or low-tier tanks firing full-calibre kinetic shells
  • Laser rangefinder allows it to engage distant targets easily
  • Roof-mounted 12.7 mm HMG is deadly against light vehicles (e.g. AML-90, M551) and some low-flying or slow aircraft
  • Has smoke grenades
  • Sideskirts offer some protection against HEAT shells and explosion shrapnel

Cons:

  • No night vision device, fatal flaw in night battles against NVD- (or even thermal-) equipped foes like Type 74 (G)
  • Slow turret traverse and elevation speed limits targeting rate. Fatal in surprise engagements
  • Poor mobility overall, meaning low agility and responsiveness to changing situations
  • Armour is still inadequate to stop common HEATFS or APFSDS (e.g. Leopard 1, T-55AM, OF-40)
  • Limiting gun depression of -5° hinders its capacity in uneven battlefield
  • Terrible reverse speed of -7 km/h prevents it from getting out of danger quickly
  • Smoke grenades discharge behind the tank, can't conceal the tank very well

History

The Type 59 (ZTZ59, WZ120) has been the backbone of PLAGF for many decades. The chassis itself received many upgrades throughout its service and the ZTZ59A (alternatively called ZTZ59-I in the earlier naming system) is the first major upgrade over Type 59.

During the Sino-Vietnamese conflict in the late 1970s, PLAGF had found some problems with the original Type 59 and suggestions were handed to the 5th Ministry of Machine Building (第五机械工业部) for possible upgrades; meanwhile it was the era of economic reform and normalisation of relationships with Western countries. Although new tanks and refurbishment of older tanks with NATO L7 105 mm guns were planned, the mass of original Type 59s could still use some upgrades as well. In 1984, the ZTZ59A upgrade program passed state certifications: the upgrade included hydraulic steering, which provided the driver with better control and lighter force to move than the previous torsion bar steering; a Model 6610 IR searchlight mounted on the front of the chassis; FCS upgrades with Type 73 laser rangefinder from Type 69 mounted on the centre line of the tank by the mantlet, TSFCS with automatic ballistic solution; and side skirts. A new APFSDS was also developed for the gun, said to be on-par with Soviet 3BM25. Some parts of the tank were also revised from the suggestions of frontline troops, sub-systems were aimed to be more reliable and ergonomic. Some of the later ZTZ59A that had received such upgrades were also tested with different designs such as a two-plane stabiliser for the gun and welding extra fences onto the turret, while some received a smoke grenade launcher upgrade on the turret.

Although the gap between the mainstream 1980s MBTs and ZTZ59A was still huge, ZTZ59A also became the basis of more ergonomic sub-system designs of PLAGF tanks, as well as simplified maintenance; filling the gap while waiting for the newer ZTZ59-II with a brand new British FCS system and L7A3 to replace them.

Media

Skins

See also

Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:

  • reference to the series of the vehicles;
  • links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.

External links

Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:

  • topic on the official game forum;
  • other literature.


China medium tanks
ZTZ59  Type 59 · ZTZ59A · ZTZ59D1
ZTZ69  Type 69 · Type 69-IIa
ZTZ88/96  ZTZ88A · ZTZ88B
  ZTZ96 · ZTZ96A · ZTZ96A (P)
ZTZ99  ZTZ99-II · ZTZ99-III
ZTZ99A  ZTZ99A · WZ1001(E) LCT
Export series  MBT-2000 · VT4A1
ROC  CM11
Other  Т-34-85 Gai · Object 122MT "MC"
Bangladesh  T-69 II G
Japan  ␗Chi-Ha · ␗Chi-Ha Kai
Pakistan  Al-Khalid-I
USA  ␗M4A4 · ␗M4A4 (1st PTG) · ␗M4A1 (75) W · ␗M48A1 · ␗M60A3 TTS
USSR  ␗T-34 (1943) · ␗Т-34-85 (S-53) · T-34-85 No.215 · Т-62 №545

China premium ground vehicles
Light tanks  T-26 No.531 · ␗M3A3 (1st PTG) · ␗M41A3 · M64 · WMA301
Medium tanks  ␗M4A4 (1st PTG) · T-34-85 No.215 · Т-62 №545 · ZTZ59A · Type 69-IIa · T-69 II G · ZTZ96A (P) · Al-Khalid-I
Heavy tanks  IS-2 No.402

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