Difference between pages "TCM-20" and "Machbet"

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(Updated description and adding most information for the vehicle)
 
m (Maximum G overload of FIM-92 missile, 10G->13G)
 
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{{About
 +
| about = Israeli SPAA '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 +
| usage = other versions
 +
| link = M113 (Family)
 +
}}
 
{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
−
|code=il_tcm_20
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|code=il_machbet
−
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== 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.'' -->
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' was the modification of M3 half-truck with TCM-20 turret by IDF. This was likely a field modification done by Israeli during their early days with sparse military equipment where they would have to used decade-old vehicles as the chassis to modify with a TCM-20 turret, including captured 6x6 trucks, BTR-152 and aided M3 half-truck; the TCM-20 turret itself was an upgraded M55 Quadmount turret (M45 turret on M20 trailer) with 2 Hisapano Hs.404 20 mm autocannons for better firepower. The lack of documents on the introduction of these modified vehicles make it hard to trace the history of them but they were likely been replaced by more advanced [[Hovet|M163 VADS (Hovet)]] with radar rangefinder by 1975.
+
IAI, in cooperation with General Dynamics, modernised the [[Hovet]]'s fire control system, introducing an IRST tracker that was more reliable than the [[AN/VPS-2]] and also did not trigger aircraft RWR, and additionally equipped it with a launch unit for four AIM-92 Stinger missiles, allowing it to engage long-range targets. After successful tests of the prototype in 1997, the machine was officially adopted by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) under the name '''Machbet''' (מחבט - "Racquet"). These vehicles replaced the Hovet in service by 1998 and were deployed along the Purple Line (post-Six-Day War ceasefire line between Israel and Syria) until the Israeli Air Defense Command was disbanded in 2006.
  
−
Introduced in [[Update "Fire and Ice"]] alongside with the Israeli tech-tree's SPAA, players will soon find similarities with M13 GMC in service with US Army. But upon closer look, these .50 cal HMGs are replaced by two 20 mm HS.404 autocannons, further enhancing its firepower against aircrafts or sometimes suppressing ground targets if needed.
+
Introduced in [[Update "Wind of Change"]] alongside the initial Israeli tech tree, the overall dimensions of the Machbet are mostly identical to the Hovet. While players will quickly notice the disappearance of the radar rangefinder, the overall capability is improved by the new optical tracker and four FIM-92 Stingers to handle longer range targets. However, being built on the same M113 chassis as the Hovet, the Machbet remains minimally armoured but relatively mobile.
  
 
== 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.'' -->
−
M3 half-truck has been a staple of US Army since 1940s as one of the most widely-used half-truck during the WWII alongside with Wehrmacht's Sdkfz series; these vehicles are universal chassis which could be converted for different missions i.e. anti-aircraft. In Israeli's case, the overall appearance of TCM-20 is very similar to M13 GMC but the larger guns and additional .30 cal M1919A4 gives its identity away. To put its protection in simple words: the vehicle is not even rated for rifle-caliber firearms at close distance. The thickest armor plate is the windshield but do not expect it will stop HMG from afar, although the engine block will absorb oncoming fire when head-on with enemies, in most cases - never, ever run into enemy fire lines or being preyed by aircrafts as these will end your career quickly; do also beware of high explosive shells or shrapnel, sometimes even close-calls could bring an end to TCM-20.
+
Despite its thin armour, the Machbet has the particularity of being able to withstand some misplaced shots, but pay attention to HE shells that are able to instantly destroy the vehicle.
  
−
'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
+
Also beware of tanks equipped with machine guns above 7.62 mm calibre, these tanks can easily penetrate the sides of the vehicle.
−
<!-- Example: * Rolled homogeneous armour (Front, Side, Rear, Hull roof)
 
−
* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret, Transmission area) -->
 
  
−
* Rolled homogeneous armour
+
'''Armour type:'''
 +
 
 +
* Aluminium Alloy 5083
  
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
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! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Hull || 6.35 mm (28-83°)<br> 12.7 mm (1-27°) ''Driver windshield'' || 6.35 mm || 6.35 mm || N/A
+
| Hull || 29-38 mm (44°) ''Front glacis'' <br> 38 mm (26°) ''Lower glacis'' || 44 mm ''Top'' <br> 32 mm ''Bottom'' || 38 mm (9°) || 10-38 mm
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Turret || 6.35 mm (0-77°) ''Turret front'' || 6.35 mm || N/A || N/A
+
| Turret || 17 mm (17-18°) ''Turret front'' <br> 150 mm ''Gun mantlet'' || 17 mm (12-19°) || 17 mm (0-20°) || N/A
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
'''Notes:''' <!-- Any additional notes which the user needs to be aware of -->
+
'''Notes:''' <!-- Example: * Suspension wheels are 20 mm thick, tracks are 30 mm thick, and torsion bars are 60 mm thick. -->
−
<!-- Example: * Suspension wheels are 20 mm thick, tracks are 30 mm thick, and torsion bars are 60 mm thick. -->
 
−
 
 
−
* Tracks are 15 mm thick
 
−
* Suspension wheels are 15 mm thick, with the bogie being 10 mm thick.
 
−
* Belly armour is 6.35 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.'' -->
−
M3 half-trucks shares the same White 160AX petrol engine which could output up-to 148 hp and the transmission could ensure its mobility both forwards and backwards; it can still retain the speed of all-wheel vehicles while crossing complicated terrains with ease.
+
While not being the fastest vehicle, especially while stock, the Machbet lacks power in slopes, but on flat ground it can handle itself pretty easily.
  
−
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=210|rbMinHp=131}}
+
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=301|rbMinHp=188}}
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
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{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
 
=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
−
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
+
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
 
<!-- ''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|HS.404 (20 mm)}}
+
{{main|M168 (20 mm)}}
  
−
The modified M55 turret (now called TCM-20) houses two HS. 404 20 mm autocannon, if the name does ring the bell in player's brain, this is also the gun used on French [[M.B.157]] at the very same configuration and ammo count. It can be said that TCM-20 is a M.B.157 on wheels and tracks, thanks to the flat ballistic of HS.404, players will soon get in hand of the performance of the cannons; not only it can take out aircrafts as it been intended on different platforms, this also make sure light vehicles will have to think twice before appearing in front of a TCM-20, the rate of fire and penetration will make sure they will not get away with ease.
+
The Machbet is equipped like the M163 with a 20 mm M168 VADS, or Vulcan air defence system. The M168 is a variant of the M61 cannon, which can be found in-game on vehicles such as the Japanese T-2, and the American F-4C Phantom II. Used initially during the Vietnam war, the M168 was a 20 mm air-cooled rotary cannon attached to a small turret on the Machbet. Dangerous to anything in the sky below 2 km, it will lock on and rip through anything in its path. Helicopter and plane will be crippled effectively.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="6" | [[HS.404 (20 mm)|20 mm HS.404]] (x2) || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
+
! colspan="6" | [[M168 (20 mm)|20 mm M168]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Mode !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
 
! Mode !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
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|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
−
| rowspan="2" | 720 (60) || rowspan="2" | 700 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+90° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 63.4 || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || rowspan="2" | 3.9 || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__
+
| rowspan="2" | 2,200 (1,100) || rowspan="2" | 3,000 || rowspan="2" | -5°/+80° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 66.0 || 91.4 || 111.0 || 122.8 || 130.6 || rowspan="2" | 26.00 || rowspan="2" | 23.00 || rowspan="2" | 21.20 || rowspan="2" | 20.00
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
−
| 42.8 || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._
+
| 44.6 || 52.5 || 63.8 || 70.5 || 75.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
  
−
* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-I|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}
+
* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|AP-I|Armour-piercing incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}
−
* '''HET:''' {{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-I|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-I|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary}}
+
* '''HEI:''' {{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-I|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-I|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary}}
−
* '''APT:''' {{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}
+
* '''AP-I:''' {{Annotation|AP-I|Armour-piercing incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-I|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}
  
−
{{:HS.404 (20 mm)/Ammunition|AP-T, HEF-I, HEFI-T}}
+
{{:M168 (20 mm)/Ammunition|HEI-T, AP-I, API-T, HEF-I}}
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
Line 90: Line 90:
 
! 1st<br>rack empty
 
! 1st<br>rack empty
 
! 2nd<br>rack empty
 
! 2nd<br>rack empty
−
! 3rd<br>rack empty
 
−
! 4th<br>rack empty
 
−
! 5th<br>rack empty
 
−
! 6th<br>rack empty
 
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''12''' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __
+
| '''2''' || 1&nbsp;''(+1)'' || 0&nbsp;''(+2)'' || No
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
=== Machine guns ===
+
=== Additional armament ===
−
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
+
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
−
<!-- ''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.'' -->
+
<!-- ''Some tanks are armed with several guns in one or more turrets. Evaluate the additional weaponry and give advice on its use. Describe the ammunition available for additional weaponry. Give advice on about how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage. If there is no additional weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
−
{{main|M1919A4 (7.62 mm)}}
+
{{main|FIM-92 Stinger}}
  
−
To compensate for the lack of continuous firepower against infantry, TCM-20 installed a M1919A4 for the commander to suppress enemies; while it is nowhere harmful to enemy armored vehicles, there might be some occasions where enemies have exposed crews and the .30 cal could make short work of them.
+
The FIM-92 E and K are effective weapons but only under certain conditions. With turns at 13 G maximum overload, the missile will not be able to follow some aircraft unless the angle is favourable. Opportune moments to hit an aircraft are when it is facing directly towards the missile launcher or flying directly away from it. The K upgrade of the missile is more likely to hit due to its proximity fuse with a trigger radius of 5 m. Helicopters, on the other hand, have a good chance of being hit due to their low altitude. Without the use of countermeasures, the missile can be sure to hit a helicopter. However, missiles may have a hard time acquiring helicopters if they are low to the ground, and helicopters may use the terrain to mask themselves or evade incoming missiles.
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="5" | [[FIM-92 Stinger]] missile || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | [[M1919A4 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm M1919A4]]
+
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
 +
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
 +
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
 +
|-
 +
! ''Arcade''
 +
| rowspan="2" | 4 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+70° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 66.0 || 91.4 || 111.0 || 122.8 || 130.6 || rowspan="2" | 19.5 || rowspan="2" | 17.2 || rowspan="2" | 15.9 || rowspan="2" | 15.0
 +
|-
 +
! ''Realistic''
 +
| 44.6 || 52.5 || 63.8 || 70.5 || 75.0
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
==== Ammunition ====
 +
{{:FIM-92 Stinger/Ammunition|FIM-92E, FIM-92K}}
 +
 
 +
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 +
<!-- [[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]] -->
 +
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
+
! Full<br>ammo
 +
! 1st<br>rack empty
 +
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Commander || 1,000 (250) || 500 || -10°/+10° || -10°/+10°
+
| '''4''' || 0&nbsp;''(+4)'' || No
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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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).'' -->
−
For players who have player M13 GMC in US tech-tree, it can be said that TCM-20 is an successor to M13 to some extent, especially its iconic twin gun configuration. However, when enemy aircrafts get too close, they will find out the major difference: they would soon be shattered by the 20 mm HS.404 autocannons, recalling the memories from being chased by aircrafts with these cannons. Such "upgrade" is very welcomed as 20 mm caliber is still more than enough to take out strafing fighters with ease, with overall 720 rounds onboard at 120 rounds per load, if players get used to the relatively straight ballistics and not being trigger-happy, the overall efficiency could be on-par with other SPAAs in other tech trees with their respective advantages. Most of all, the M3 chassis ensured TCM-20 could get to where it is needed as soon as possible thanks to its 72 km/h top speed, making it a viable option to flank enemies in some occasions; while the 13 km/h reverse speed could still make sure it can retreat to cover if masses of enemies/menacing aircrafts rushing to where the vehicle is. As said, TCM-20 is still a half-truck based SPAAG with minimal protection; in fact rifle-caliber firearms can harm the crew at around 200 m from the sides, let along HMGs and autocannons at even higher penetration, so be extra careful on where players should appear - rushing or running into heated frontline is certainly a death sentence to TCM-20. Overall, TCM-20 is still a good AA half-truck to handle different types of vehicles, whether it's on wheels, tracks or flying ones.
 
  
−
All things aside, there is an rare problem for most tech-trees in-game, but now exclusive to Israel: although it has BR at 4.3 (all modes), but due to the lack of lower tier WWII vehicles, TCM-20 will be at least at BR 6.0 alongside with M-51 Sherman; most vehicles at this tier will have side armor with at least 50 mm protection, at only 42 mm penetration at point-blank range, hunting down medium tanks is not an option in this case. So pick the target wisely when you opt to flank enemies - pick either SPAAGs or light tanks in this case to maximize damage; alternatively finding covers and wait for aerial targets to get close enough to deliver fatal blow to them.
+
By the time of Machbet's upgrade was done on IADC's fleet of Hovet in late-1990s, the world has already been evolved to the 4th generation jets with more than enough ordnances to take out Machbet at long distance; but if used cautiously against earlier jets with inferior electronics and aim for careless targets, Machbet could still serve the team well with its obsolete chassis.
 +
 
 +
After players researched Machbet from [[ZSU-23-4 (Israel)|captured ZSU-23-4]], they will soon meet their old-friend: another M163 VADS (Hovet). But when they first get their hands on the "new" vehicle, they can certainly find differences from Hovet - firstly, the iconic [[AN/VPS-2]] tracking radar is now replaced by new opto-electronic trackers with FLIR cameras; secondly, there is a large, cubic box that housed 4 FIM-92 Stingers MANPADS. Some players will compare Machbet with [[SIDAM 25 (Mistral)]] or [[LAV-AD]] which also has similar configuration with guns and MAMPADS, but all these 3 vehicles have a common problem: they lack a search radar for sole operations (while [[Gepard 1A2]] and [[PGZ04A]] have independent search and track devices) as they requires centralized command systems and datalink. So players will have to be extra cautious on enemy aircrafts; thanks to the new FLIR tracker, it now enjoys optical locking at up to 10 km without triggering enemy RWR, as well as its IR channel which boost target searching as player vehicles should be the hottest object both on ground and in the skies. But most of all, players would have to be aware on where enemy aircrafts usually appear (i.e. direction of enemy helipads and air respawns), be sure to utilize the advanced electronics onboard to seek for targets, alternatively asking for the help from allies especially other SPAAs with search radar can further boost the combat capabilities of Machbet; else, players should keep a ear on enemy engine sounds. Therefore, playing aggressively is not a viable option for Machbet; instead, using covers to conceal yourself from enemy visual, then wait for enemy aircrafts in missile/gun firing range is the way to earn victories against enemies. The firepower of M168 Vulcan can certainly shatter enemy in pieces while the Stingers can extend the firing radius up to 6 km (depending on target's heat signature); be sure to leave enough clearance and lead the missile before launching them as you only have 4 chances to hit enemies, hitting subsonic jets or those which have depleted their energy is the best way to score victories with maximum efficiency.
 +
 
 +
If there are no aerial targets, utilizing the AP belts on Machbet could still achieve some victories against enemy light vehicles or fellow SPAAs. Just make sure to pick the right target as MBTs at its tier is mostly immune to 20 mm autocannons; messing with MBTs which has pintle HMGs can grant Machbet a very quick demise due to the aluminum alloy chassis with little protection.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
 +
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* Devastating 20 mm autocannon which works well against aircrafts
+
* Access to capable FIM-92 Stinger missiles even when stock.
−
* Rather mobile, can swiftly changes its position if needed
+
** FIM-92K missile an upgradeable option to enhance lethality due to proximity fuze.
−
* Quick turret traverse speed for target acquisition
+
* Have powerful 20 mm M168 for close-range protection against aircraft.
−
* Spare .30 cal machine gun for occasion unprotected crews of enemy vehicles
+
* Lightweight with good horsepower for good mobility
−
 
+
* Access to advanced electronics (LRF and thermal camera with optical tracking)
−
*
 
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Lightly protected up to rifle caliber firearms, also prone to overpressure
+
* Armour is thin and basically non-existent except against machine gun calibre rounds
−
* Relatively small ammo pool per load (60 per gun)
+
* Stingers do not have sufficient overload to track fast, mobile targets
−
* Insufficient penetration due to the battle rating
+
* 20 mm only useful within 2 km firing distance
−
 
+
* Lacks search radar for target acquisition, requires high situational awareness or help from radar-equipped vehicles
−
*
 
  
 
== 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).'' -->
−
''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).''
+
As the world entered the last decade of the 20th Century, the [[Hovet]] had already become obsolete against new aerial threats due to its inferior FCS and lack of missiles. Thus, IAI planned for an upgrade to the fleet of Hovets with modernized FLIR tracking systems and FIM-92 Stinger MANPADS; this upgrade also introduced GPS and the "Hermit" (הרמיט) computerized command system for battery vehicles with all-in-one display of radar signals and video display from command systems via a military-grade briefcase laptop.
 +
 
 +
The upgraded vehicles replaced Hovet in border air-defense by 1998 and served with the Israel Air Defense Command until its disbandment in 2006. <ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20110514104344/http://www.iaf.org.il/241-18138-he/IAF.aspx?indx=1</ref>
 +
 
 +
=== [[wt:en/news/7601-development-machbet-desert-vulcan-en|Devblog]] ===
 +
After the M163 VADS began being decommissioned from American service, the vehicle was heavily exported to foreign operators. Israel was one of several states which adopted the M163 VADS into its own military under the name 'Hovet' in the early 1980s. By the early 1990s however, it was realized that the system required modernization. As such, the IAI company was tasked with developing an upgrade package.
 +
 
 +
Together with General Dynamics, IAI upgraded the Hovet's fire control system and equipped the vehicle with a Stinger missile launcher, in an effort to increase the vehicle's effectiveness against low-flying jet aircraft. Following successful testing of the prototype in 1997, the vehicle was formally accepted into service with the IDF under the name 'Machbet' in 1998. In the upcoming years, several of the older Hovets were modernized to the Machbet standard. However, the Machbet only saw a short service life with the IDF. Because of changing tasks and requirements, the Machbet was officially withdrawn from active service in 2006.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
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;Skins
 
;Skins
  
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* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=il_tcm_20 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
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* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=il_machbet Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
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* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
  
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* [[M3 Half-Track (Family)]]
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;Related development
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** [[Zachlam Tager]]
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* [[M113 (Family)]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
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* ''other literature.'' -->
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
  
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* [[wt:en/news/7916-development-tcm-20-hail-of-bullets-en|[Devblog] TCM-20: Hail of Bullets]]
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* [[wt:en/news/7601-development-machbet-desert-vulcan-en|[Devblog] Machbet: Desert "Vulcan"]]
  
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{{Manufacturer IAI}}
 
{{Israel anti-aircraft vehicles}}
 
{{Israel anti-aircraft vehicles}}
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[[Category:Half-tracks]]
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<references />

Latest revision as of 12:53, 14 October 2024

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This page is about the Israeli SPAA Machbet. For other versions, see M113 (Family).
Machbet
il_machbet.png
GarageImage Machbet.jpg
Machbet

Description

IAI, in cooperation with General Dynamics, modernised the Hovet's fire control system, introducing an IRST tracker that was more reliable than the AN/VPS-2 and also did not trigger aircraft RWR, and additionally equipped it with a launch unit for four AIM-92 Stinger missiles, allowing it to engage long-range targets. After successful tests of the prototype in 1997, the machine was officially adopted by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) under the name Machbet (מחבט - "Racquet"). These vehicles replaced the Hovet in service by 1998 and were deployed along the Purple Line (post-Six-Day War ceasefire line between Israel and Syria) until the Israeli Air Defense Command was disbanded in 2006.

Introduced in Update "Wind of Change" alongside the initial Israeli tech tree, the overall dimensions of the Machbet are mostly identical to the Hovet. While players will quickly notice the disappearance of the radar rangefinder, the overall capability is improved by the new optical tracker and four FIM-92 Stingers to handle longer range targets. However, being built on the same M113 chassis as the Hovet, the Machbet remains minimally armoured but relatively mobile.

General info

Survivability and armour

Despite its thin armour, the Machbet has the particularity of being able to withstand some misplaced shots, but pay attention to HE shells that are able to instantly destroy the vehicle.

Also beware of tanks equipped with machine guns above 7.62 mm calibre, these tanks can easily penetrate the sides of the vehicle.

Armour type:

  • Aluminium Alloy 5083
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 29-38 mm (44°) Front glacis
38 mm (26°) Lower glacis 		44 mm Top
32 mm Bottom 		38 mm (9°) 10-38 mm
Turret 17 mm (17-18°) Turret front
150 mm Gun mantlet 		17 mm (12-19°) 17 mm (0-20°) N/A

Notes:

Mobility

While not being the fastest vehicle, especially while stock, the Machbet lacks power in slopes, but on flat ground it can handle itself pretty easily.

Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade Expression error: Unexpected * operator. 301 Expression error: Unexpected round operator. __.__
Realistic 188 Expression error: Unexpected round operator. __.__

Modifications and economy

Armaments

Main armament

Main article: M168 (20 mm)

The Machbet is equipped like the M163 with a 20 mm M168 VADS, or Vulcan air defence system. The M168 is a variant of the M61 cannon, which can be found in-game on vehicles such as the Japanese T-2, and the American F-4C Phantom II. Used initially during the Vietnam war, the M168 was a 20 mm air-cooled rotary cannon attached to a small turret on the Machbet. Dangerous to anything in the sky below 2 km, it will lock on and rip through anything in its path. Helicopter and plane will be crippled effectively.

20 mm M168 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 2,200 (1,100) 3,000 -5°/+80° ±180° N/A 66.0 91.4 111.0 122.8 130.6 26.00 23.00 21.20 20.00
Realistic 44.6 52.5 63.8 70.5 75.0

Ammunition

  • Default: AP-I · HEI-T · API-T
  • HEI: HEI-T · HEF-I · API-T · HEF-I
  • AP-I: AP-I · API-T · HEF-I · API-T

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
HEI-T 5 5 3 2 2 2
AP-I 40 36 22 12 6 3
API-T 40 36 22 12 6 3
HEF-I 5 5 3 2 2 2
Shell details
Ammunition Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
HEI-T 1,030 0.1 0.1 0.1 12 79° 80° 81°
AP-I 1,030 0.1 - - - 47° 56° 65°
API-T 1,030 0.1 - - - 47° 60° 65°
HEF-I 1,030 0.1 0.1 0.1 17.12 - - -

Ammo racks

Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
2 1 (+1) 0 (+2) No

Additional armament

Main article: FIM-92 Stinger

The FIM-92 E and K are effective weapons but only under certain conditions. With turns at 13 G maximum overload, the missile will not be able to follow some aircraft unless the angle is favourable. Opportune moments to hit an aircraft are when it is facing directly towards the missile launcher or flying directly away from it. The K upgrade of the missile is more likely to hit due to its proximity fuse with a trigger radius of 5 m. Helicopters, on the other hand, have a good chance of being hit due to their low altitude. Without the use of countermeasures, the missile can be sure to hit a helicopter. However, missiles may have a hard time acquiring helicopters if they are low to the ground, and helicopters may use the terrain to mask themselves or evade incoming missiles.

FIM-92 Stinger missile Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 4 -10°/+70° ±180° N/A 66.0 91.4 111.0 122.8 130.6 19.5 17.2 15.9 15.0
Realistic 44.6 52.5 63.8 70.5 75.0

Ammunition

Missile details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Range
(m) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Arming
distance (m) 		Trigger
radius (m) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
FIM-92E SAM 670 5,000 10.1 1 0.1 - - 540 79° 80° 81°
FIM-92K SAM 670 5,000 10.1 1 0.1 0 1 540 79° 80° 81°

Ammo racks

Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
4 0 (+4) No

Usage in battles

By the time of Machbet's upgrade was done on IADC's fleet of Hovet in late-1990s, the world has already been evolved to the 4th generation jets with more than enough ordnances to take out Machbet at long distance; but if used cautiously against earlier jets with inferior electronics and aim for careless targets, Machbet could still serve the team well with its obsolete chassis.

After players researched Machbet from captured ZSU-23-4, they will soon meet their old-friend: another M163 VADS (Hovet). But when they first get their hands on the "new" vehicle, they can certainly find differences from Hovet - firstly, the iconic AN/VPS-2 tracking radar is now replaced by new opto-electronic trackers with FLIR cameras; secondly, there is a large, cubic box that housed 4 FIM-92 Stingers MANPADS. Some players will compare Machbet with SIDAM 25 (Mistral) or LAV-AD which also has similar configuration with guns and MAMPADS, but all these 3 vehicles have a common problem: they lack a search radar for sole operations (while Gepard 1A2 and PGZ04A have independent search and track devices) as they requires centralized command systems and datalink. So players will have to be extra cautious on enemy aircrafts; thanks to the new FLIR tracker, it now enjoys optical locking at up to 10 km without triggering enemy RWR, as well as its IR channel which boost target searching as player vehicles should be the hottest object both on ground and in the skies. But most of all, players would have to be aware on where enemy aircrafts usually appear (i.e. direction of enemy helipads and air respawns), be sure to utilize the advanced electronics onboard to seek for targets, alternatively asking for the help from allies especially other SPAAs with search radar can further boost the combat capabilities of Machbet; else, players should keep a ear on enemy engine sounds. Therefore, playing aggressively is not a viable option for Machbet; instead, using covers to conceal yourself from enemy visual, then wait for enemy aircrafts in missile/gun firing range is the way to earn victories against enemies. The firepower of M168 Vulcan can certainly shatter enemy in pieces while the Stingers can extend the firing radius up to 6 km (depending on target's heat signature); be sure to leave enough clearance and lead the missile before launching them as you only have 4 chances to hit enemies, hitting subsonic jets or those which have depleted their energy is the best way to score victories with maximum efficiency.

If there are no aerial targets, utilizing the AP belts on Machbet could still achieve some victories against enemy light vehicles or fellow SPAAs. Just make sure to pick the right target as MBTs at its tier is mostly immune to 20 mm autocannons; messing with MBTs which has pintle HMGs can grant Machbet a very quick demise due to the aluminum alloy chassis with little protection.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Access to capable FIM-92 Stinger missiles even when stock.
    • FIM-92K missile an upgradeable option to enhance lethality due to proximity fuze.
  • Have powerful 20 mm M168 for close-range protection against aircraft.
  • Lightweight with good horsepower for good mobility
  • Access to advanced electronics (LRF and thermal camera with optical tracking)

Cons:

  • Armour is thin and basically non-existent except against machine gun calibre rounds
  • Stingers do not have sufficient overload to track fast, mobile targets
  • 20 mm only useful within 2 km firing distance
  • Lacks search radar for target acquisition, requires high situational awareness or help from radar-equipped vehicles

History

As the world entered the last decade of the 20th Century, the Hovet had already become obsolete against new aerial threats due to its inferior FCS and lack of missiles. Thus, IAI planned for an upgrade to the fleet of Hovets with modernized FLIR tracking systems and FIM-92 Stinger MANPADS; this upgrade also introduced GPS and the "Hermit" (הרמיט) computerized command system for battery vehicles with all-in-one display of radar signals and video display from command systems via a military-grade briefcase laptop.

The upgraded vehicles replaced Hovet in border air-defense by 1998 and served with the Israel Air Defense Command until its disbandment in 2006. [1]

Devblog

After the M163 VADS began being decommissioned from American service, the vehicle was heavily exported to foreign operators. Israel was one of several states which adopted the M163 VADS into its own military under the name 'Hovet' in the early 1980s. By the early 1990s however, it was realized that the system required modernization. As such, the IAI company was tasked with developing an upgrade package.

Together with General Dynamics, IAI upgraded the Hovet's fire control system and equipped the vehicle with a Stinger missile launcher, in an effort to increase the vehicle's effectiveness against low-flying jet aircraft. Following successful testing of the prototype in 1997, the vehicle was formally accepted into service with the IDF under the name 'Machbet' in 1998. In the upcoming years, several of the older Hovets were modernized to the Machbet standard. However, the Machbet only saw a short service life with the IDF. Because of changing tasks and requirements, the Machbet was officially withdrawn from active service in 2006.

Media

Skins

See also

Related development

External links


Israel Aerospace Industries (התעשייה האווירית לישראל)
Jet Fighters  Nesher · Kfir Canard · Kfir C.2 · Kfir C.7
SPAAs  Machbet

Israel anti-aircraft vehicles
Half-track  TCM-20
M163 derivatives  Hovet · Machbet · Imp.Chaparral
Captured  ZSU-57-2 · ZSU-23-4

  1. ↑ https://web.archive.org/web/20110514104344/http://www.iaf.org.il/241-18138-he/IAF.aspx?indx=1
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