Difference between revisions of "ZTS63"

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(→‎Description: Adding most of the information for the tank; usage in battle and history pending)
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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.'' -->
−
The ZTS63 (Chinese:ZTS63式水陆两栖坦克, industry code WZ211), originally certified in 1963 as the amphibious tank for PLANMC or PLAGF units with the needs to cross waterbodies which were abundant in Asia, has received an upgrade as some of the technologies used on ZTZ59A or ZTQ62 have already been installed successfully by 1980; in ZTS63's case, it received a laser rangefinder and better fire control system for long-range fire support. These tanks have served PLAGF during the Sino-Vietnamese War in early 1980s as a supporter to troops against Vietnamese troops and militia with very few tanks at service, although having non-sufficient protection against cannons and RPGs, these vehicles were kept in service until later ZTS63A and eventually ZLT05 or newer IFVs that replaced its role as amphibious tank, marking the end of the prefix ZTS in PLA service.
+
The '''ZTS63''' (Chinese: ZTS63式水陆两栖坦克, industry code WZ211; known as Type 63 before 1987 nomenclature revision), originally certified in 1963 as the amphibious tank for PLANMC or PLAGF units with the need to cross the water bodies abundant in Asia, received some of the technologies used on ZTZ59A and ZTQ62 that had already been installed successfully since 1980; in the ZTS63's case, it received a laser rangefinder and better fire control system for long-range fire support. These tanks served during the Sino-Vietnamese War in the early 1980s as a supporter to troops against Vietnamese troops and militia with very few tanks in service; although having insufficient protection against cannons and RPGs, these vehicles were kept in service until the later ZTS63A and eventually ZLT05 or newer IFVs replaced its role as an amphibious tank, marking the end of the prefix ZTS in PLA service.
  
−
Introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]], players of [[Type 62]] or [[Type 63-I]] will soon find themselves home thanks to its identical handling and overall design, some welcoming upgrades including better FCS and the installation of Type 54 DShK also makes it a more versatile alternative to its predecessors; the introduction of this tank also marked the earliest tank possible to equip with both APFSDS and LRF with automatic ballistic solutions, not only this greatly extent the combat distance of the tank, it also greatly increase its odds to survive as this feature is extremely rare at its tier. However, players would still have to beware of its below-average protection against even HMGs and rather slow turret traverse speed, these could be fatal if players must run into heated fights without the situational awareness needed.
+
Introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]], players of the [[Type 62]] or [[Type 63]] will soon find themselves at home thanks to its identical handling and overall design. Some welcome upgrades including better FCS and the installation of a Type 54 DShK machine gun also make it a more versatile alternative to its predecessors. With both APFSDS and a laser rangefinder with automatic ballistic solutions, not only does this greatly extend the combat distance of the tank, it also greatly increases its odds to survive as this feature is extremely rare at its tier. However, players will still have to beware of its below-average protection against even HMGs and rather slow turret traverse speed, these could be fatal if players run into heated fights without the situational awareness needed.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
Line 14: Line 14:
 
{{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.'' -->
−
One thing to note is that the name of ZTS63 is interchangeable with Type 63, other than the name change after 1980, HMG on turret and a LRF on the mantle by the centerline, the overall design of these two tanks are totally identical. For the needs of amphibious operations, the protection is reduced to the bare minimum to stop rifle caliber bullets and shrapnel; other than the mantlet at 50 mm, the whole vehicle has only up to 20 mm of armor, enemies' autocannons and HMGs will be very happy to see ZTS63 as they could tear down the vehicle with ease. So it's better to keep the vehicle from the heated battlefield and act as a supporter of the team to deliver possible final blow to enemy vehicles or disabling enemies as much as possible.  
+
One thing to note is that the name of ZTS63 is interchangeable with Type 63, other than the name change after 1980, HMG on turret and a LRF on the mantlet by the centerline, the overall design of these two tanks are totally identical. For the needs of amphibious operations, the protection is reduced to the bare minimum to stop rifle calibre bullets and shrapnel; other than the mantlet at 50 mm, the whole vehicle has only up to 20 mm of armour: autocannons and HMGs will tear down the vehicle with ease. So it's better to keep the vehicle from the heated battlefield and act as a supporter of the team to deliver possible final blow to enemy vehicles or disabling enemies as much as possible.
  
 
'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
 
'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
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! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Hull || 10 mm (82°) UFP  
+
| Hull || 10 mm (82°) UFP
−
15 mm (54°) LFP  
+
15 mm (54°) LFP
 
| 10 mm ''Top'' <br> 8 mm ''Bottom'' || 8 mm || 8 mm
 
| 10 mm ''Top'' <br> 8 mm ''Bottom'' || 8 mm || 8 mm
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Turret || 20 mm ''Turret front'' (Volumetric) <br>50 mm ''Gun mantlet'' || colspan="2" |20 mm (Volumetric)  
+
| Turret || 20 mm ''Turret front'' (Volumetric) <br>50 mm ''Gun mantlet'' || colspan="2" |20 mm (Volumetric)
 
| 8 mm
 
| 8 mm
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Cupola || colspan="4" | 8 mm  
+
| Cupola || colspan="4" | 8 mm
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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{{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.'' -->
−
The ZTS63 didn't receive any upgrade in terms of powerplant and transmission, so it shares the same 12150L-2 diesel engine found previously on Type 63-I; the very slight or even no weight change on the tank also means it can retain a sufficiently high power-to-weight ratio at around 20 hp/t. If players ever have the need to flank enemies by taking detours on waterbodies, it could also travel on water at 11 km/h, one of the fastest speed among other amphibious vehicle in game.
+
The ZTS63 didn't receive any upgrades in terms of powerplant and transmission, so it shares the same 12150L-2 diesel engine found previously on Type 63; the very slight or even no weight change on the tank also means it can retain a sufficiently high power-to-weight ratio at around 21 hp/t. If players ever have the need to flank enemies by taking detours on water, it could also travel on water at 11 km/h, one of the fastest speed among other amphibious vehicle in game.
  
−
{{tankMobility}}
+
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=620|rbMinHp=354}}
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
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{{main|Type 63 (85 mm)}}
 
{{main|Type 63 (85 mm)}}
  
−
Still sharing the same gun as on Type 62 and 63, the Type 63 85 mm rifle cannon still handles totally identical to Type 63-I with some changes on the ammunition available; players will find the same exact advantage and flaws from previous users- while the caliber is larger than most light tanks of its tier with variety of ammunition and now APFSDS is among one of them, players need extra situational awareness to use the gun as it has way less reaction time than most light tanks at its tier as well; plan ahead and turn the turret before any close-quarter assaults.
+
Still sharing the same gun as the Type 62 and 63, the Type 63 85 mm rifled cannon still handles totally identically to the Type 63 with some changes on the ammunition available. Players will find the same exact advantages and flaws from previous vehicles - while the calibre is larger than most light tanks of its tier with a variety of ammunition and now APFSDS among them, players need extra situational awareness to use the gun as it has much slower reaction time than most light tanks at its tier as well; plan ahead and turn the turret before any close-quarter assaults.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
−
| rowspan="2" | 47 || rowspan="2" | -5°/+22° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | - || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__
+
| rowspan="2" | 47 || rowspan="2" | -5°/+22° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | - || 9.5 || 13.2 || 16.0 || 17.7 || 18.8 || rowspan="2" | 9.62 || rowspan="2" | 8.51 || rowspan="2" | 7.84 || rowspan="2" | 7.40
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
−
| __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._
+
| 5.9 || 7.0 || 8.5 || 9.4 || 10.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
−
{{:Type 63 (85 mm)/Ammunition|Type 1956 HEAT-FS, Type 56 HE, Type 56 AP, DJW85}}
+
{{:Type 63 (85 mm)/Ammunition|Type 56 HEAT-FS, Type 56 HE, Type 56 APCBC, DJW85}}
 +
 
 +
The ZTS63's rounds are somewhat different from the original Type 63. The Type 56 APBC (aka BR-365 APHEBC) shell, well known for its generous explosive content and slope modifiers, is not available anymore. The returning Type 56 HEAT-FS is now the stock shell, which gives the ZTS63 the ability to engage heavy tanks like the [[IS-3]] from the start. Compared to the [[ZBD86]]'s PG-9 rocket propelled grenade, the HEAT-FS has the same penetration and a better muzzle velocity, which is helpful at medium and long ranges.
 +
 
 +
The stock "Type 56 HE" shell is a renamed O-365K and should be completely ignored, because the HEAT-FS has a greater explosive mass.
 +
 
 +
The only APHE shell available is the unlockable "Type 56 APCBC", a renamed BR-367 APCBC. Although it is not as efficient for knocking out light targets or scoring sideshots as BR-365, it still gets the job done with some careful aim and the enhanced flat penetration is nice to have. Enemy IFVs can be dispatched easily with a single AP shell, even from across the map, due to their thin armour and typically large profiles.
 +
 
 +
The top round is the DJW85 APFSDS, something completely new to the 85 mm caliber. Although Chinese tankers may be apprehensive about early domestic APFSDS rounds, DJW85 actually has better performance than the [[Type 69]]'s Type 71 APFSDS despite being a significantly smaller round. Although it has a a lower muzzle velocity, it does not lose as much penetration over distances. The 2.1 kg projectile mass is not able to create much spalling, but it is a useful tool for disabling shots and targeting ammo racks in long range combat.
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
−
<!-- [[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]] -->
+
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
−
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
+
<!-- '''Last updated: 2.27.2.47''' -->
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
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! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''47''' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __
+
| '''47''' || 42&nbsp;''(+5)'' || 33&nbsp;''(+14)'' || 24&nbsp;''(+23)'' || 18&nbsp;''(+29)'' || 10&nbsp;''(+37)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+46)'' || No
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
'''Notes''':
 +
 +
* Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
 +
* It is recommended to take 42&nbsp;''(+5)'' shells to clear the turret of ammunition.
 +
* Taking 18&nbsp;''(+29)'' shells clears the right hull of ammunition.
 +
* Taking 10&nbsp;''(+37)'' shells clears both hull sides of ammunition.
  
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
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{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}
 
{{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|Type 54 (12.7 mm)|SGMT (7.62 mm)}}
+
{{main|Type 54 (12.7 mm)|Type 59 (7.62 mm)}}
  
−
The previous Type 63-I has no HMG installed on top; in ZTS63's case, it has a pintle Type 54 DShK installed on the commander side of turret, giving it the chance to unleash 12.7 mm bullets against light targets or aircrafts/helicopters that came too close.
+
The previous Type 63 has no HMG installed on top; in ZTS63's case, it has a pintle Type 54 DShK installed on the commander side of turret, giving it the chance to unleash 12.7 mm bullets against light targets or aircraft/helicopters that came too close.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
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! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Pintle
+
| Pintle || 500 (50) || 600 || -4°/+82° || ±180°
−
| 500 (50) ||600
 
−
|<nowiki>-5°/+60°</nowiki>
 
−
|±180°
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | [[SGMT (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm SGMT]]
+
! colspan="5" | [[Type 59 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm Type 59]]
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
|-
 
|-
−
|Coaxial||3,250 (250)
+
| Coaxial || 2,000 (250) || 600 || - || -
−
|600
 
−
| N/A || N/A
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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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).'' -->
−
''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).''
+
At first glance, ZTS63 looks exactly like its pre-1980 cousin Type 63; this is indeed true as they are the same vehicle plus new FCS and a HMG mounted on the former, players from Type 63 will get their hands on the tank rather quickly thanks to their totally identical handling in terms of mobility and tactical flexibility to flank enemies. Do remember that ZTS63 is still a light tank with minimal protection due to its amphibious capability (for buoyancy reasons at complicated waters), while the turret might look very similar to T-54/ Type 59's, but the thickness is at most rated for HMG fire at longer distance; anything with a caliber of over 20 mm with have no problem tearing through the turret with ease, let alone the hull with even less protection. The design of ZTS63 is relatively large to LTs at its tier, therefore it is extremely essential to conceal the vehicle from enemy sights, going frontline means a quick death sentence to the tank as well; thus, the lightweight of the vehicle could be put into use by flanking enemies by taking detours to enemies' flanks, alternatively utilize the river network on some maps to launch sudden attacks from the rear (its 11 km/h on-water speed thanks to the water jet propulsion system certainly helps a lot). Another uncommon feature of ZTS63 from most LTs of its tier is its LRF and automatic ballistic solution, the tank might have insufficient magnification for long-range engagements, but the two aforementioned equipment will certainly helps taking out enemies showing their sides from afar; its stock HEATFS shell also helps as most LTs would have to either have to rely on APCR with subpar damage or lacking a rangefinder for long-range engagements. If HEATFS is not your cup of tea, its researchable, conventional APHE and the only 85 mm APFSDS in game will certainly give players more option to take down various enemies. The APHE shell is good for hitting enemies from the sides and blowing them out with its explosive fillers, while APFSDS ensures a flat trajectory and penetration to take out heavy targets up-front or at long range. Although messing with aircraft or rotorcraft on a ZTS63 is a rather unrecommended move, if there's one flying straight at the player, they might have to reconsider as the Type 54 DShK will give ZTS63 a chance to earn a surprise kill on aircraft; 12.7x108 mm bullets can certainly do extensive damage to enemies.
 +
 
 +
Overall, ZTS63 is a welcomed addition to PLAGF line-up thanks to its better FCS and various ammunition options; but do remember to plan your assaults ahead or turn the turret beforehand for incoming, unaware enemies, sudden strikes from unexpected places is the key to support the team to advance for victory.
  
 
=== 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".'' -->'''Pros:'''
+
<!-- ''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:'''
  
−
* Amphibious  
+
* Amphibious, allowing the use of surprise tactics involving rivers
 
* Fast and nimble enough to get into vantage points
 
* Fast and nimble enough to get into vantage points
−
* LRF and automatic ballistic solution for long-range engagement
+
* Laser rangefinder and automatic ballistic solution for long-range engagement
−
* Access to HMG for self-defense
+
* Access to HMG for self-defense against planes
−
* The earliest non-premium vehicle to introduce APFSDS
+
* APFSDS with ~220 mm penetration is effective against weakly armoured tanks like [[Leopard 1 (Family)|Leopard 1]], [[AMX-30]]
−
* Varieties of ammunition for different scenario  
+
* Varieties of ammunition for different scenario
−
 
 
−
*
 
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Rather unprotected with its paper-thin armor
+
* Low survivability: unprotected with its paper-thin armour, and large size
 +
* Cannon struggles against late war heavy tanks like [[Maus]], [[IS-4M|IS-4]]
 
* Slow turret traverse speed
 
* Slow turret traverse speed
 
* Relatively slow reload speed
 
* Relatively slow reload speed
−
* Still lacks NVD for night battles
+
* No smoke grenades
−
* Lacks means to generate covering smoke
 
−
* Relatively large size for a light tank
 
−
 
 
−
*
 
  
 
== 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 previous Type 63 (ZTS63 after 1987) was commissioned by 1965, there were some flaws suggested by the PLA units that received the tank, thus the need for an upgrade on ZTS63 arose. There were a few major modifications for the tank including single transmission control stick, HMG gun mantlet, safety locks for hatches, revised seats, new suspension springs and etc. Among these modifications, some parts from late-production ZTQ62 including its fire control system and laser rangefinder were also introduced to the ZTS63 revision by the late 1970s. These tanks rolled off the production line by the same time and likely have join the Sino-Vietnamese War where its FCS and amphibious capabilities would shine due to the riverine terrain of Vietnam, where they were sometimes used as makeshift SPGs to strike fortifications or suppressing waves of infantry.
 +
 
 +
Some of these tanks were then modified to ZTS63A in the late 1990s with upgraded firepower in view for the possible landing operations. Although the landing didn't happen, the ZTS63A also set the footsteps for the later ZLT05 assault gun which is also currently the fastest amphibious armoured vehicle in commission.
  
 
== 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_zts_63_1980 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 165: Line 178:
 
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
−
* [[Type 63-I]]: the base model
+
 
 +
* [[Type 63]]: the base model
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
Line 171: Line 185:
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
−
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
  
−
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
+
* [[wt:en/news/8092-development-zts63-1980-nimble-sniper-en|[Devblog] ZTS63 (1980): Nimble Sniper]]
−
* ''other literature.''
 
  
 +
{{TankManufacturer Norinco}}
 
{{China light tanks}}
 
{{China light tanks}}

Latest revision as of 03:53, 7 November 2024

Introducing Wiki 3.0
ZTS63
cn_zts_63_1980.png
GarageImage ZTS63.jpg
ZTS63
China flag.png China
V Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
7.7 7.7 7.7
Class:
Research:95 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:270 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png

Description

The ZTS63 (Chinese: ZTS63式水陆两栖坦克, industry code WZ211; known as Type 63 before 1987 nomenclature revision), originally certified in 1963 as the amphibious tank for PLANMC or PLAGF units with the need to cross the water bodies abundant in Asia, received some of the technologies used on ZTZ59A and ZTQ62 that had already been installed successfully since 1980; in the ZTS63's case, it received a laser rangefinder and better fire control system for long-range fire support. These tanks served during the Sino-Vietnamese War in the early 1980s as a supporter to troops against Vietnamese troops and militia with very few tanks in service; although having insufficient protection against cannons and RPGs, these vehicles were kept in service until the later ZTS63A and eventually ZLT05 or newer IFVs replaced its role as an amphibious tank, marking the end of the prefix ZTS in PLA service.

Introduced in Update "Sky Guardians", players of the Type 62 or Type 63 will soon find themselves at home thanks to its identical handling and overall design. Some welcome upgrades including better FCS and the installation of a Type 54 DShK machine gun also make it a more versatile alternative to its predecessors. With both APFSDS and a laser rangefinder with automatic ballistic solutions, not only does this greatly extend the combat distance of the tank, it also greatly increases its odds to survive as this feature is extremely rare at its tier. However, players will still have to beware of its below-average protection against even HMGs and rather slow turret traverse speed, these could be fatal if players run into heated fights without the situational awareness needed.

General info

Survivability and armour

Armourfront / side / back
Hull15 / 10 / 8
Turret20 / 20 / 20
Crew4 people
Visibility83 %

One thing to note is that the name of ZTS63 is interchangeable with Type 63, other than the name change after 1980, HMG on turret and a LRF on the mantlet by the centerline, the overall design of these two tanks are totally identical. For the needs of amphibious operations, the protection is reduced to the bare minimum to stop rifle calibre bullets and shrapnel; other than the mantlet at 50 mm, the whole vehicle has only up to 20 mm of armour: autocannons and HMGs will tear down the vehicle with ease. So it's better to keep the vehicle from the heated battlefield and act as a supporter of the team to deliver possible final blow to enemy vehicles or disabling enemies as much as possible.

Armour type:

Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 10 mm (82°) UFP

15 mm (54°) LFP

10 mm Top
8 mm Bottom 		8 mm 8 mm
Turret 20 mm Turret front (Volumetric)
50 mm Gun mantlet 		20 mm (Volumetric) 8 mm
Cupola 8 mm

Notes:

Mobility

Amphibious
The design allows you to swim and control movement in the water
Speedforward / back
AB72 / 9 km/h
RB and SB65 / 9 km/h
Number of gears5 forward
1 back
Weight18.4 t
Engine power
AB763 hp
RB and SB400 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB41.5 hp/t
RB and SB21.7 hp/t

The ZTS63 didn't receive any upgrades in terms of powerplant and transmission, so it shares the same 12150L-2 diesel engine found previously on Type 63; the very slight or even no weight change on the tank also means it can retain a sufficiently high power-to-weight ratio at around 21 hp/t. If players ever have the need to flank enemies by taking detours on water, it could also travel on water at 11 km/h, one of the fastest speed among other amphibious vehicle in game.

Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 72 9 18.4 620 763 33.7 41.47
Realistic 65 9 354 400 19.24 21.74

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB3 163 → 4 402 Sl icon.png
RB3 777 → 5 257 Sl icon.png
SB5 145 → 7 161 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications76 500 Rp icon.png
128 600 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 000 Ge icon.png
Crew training78 000 Sl icon.png
Experts270 000 Sl icon.png
Aces1 100 Ge icon.png
Research Aces670 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
110 / 160 / 200 % Sl icon.png
190 / 190 / 190 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
5 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 600 Sl icon.png
260 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
3 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 800 Sl icon.png
175 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
3 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 800 Sl icon.png
175 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
5 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 100 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
4 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 900 Sl icon.png
210 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
4 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 900 Sl icon.png
210 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
3 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 600 Sl icon.png
260 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
2 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 800 Sl icon.png
175 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement cn.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
5 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 100 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
5 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 600 Sl icon.png
260 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
3 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 800 Sl icon.png
175 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
85mm_APCBC_ammo_pack
Research:
3 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 800 Sl icon.png
175 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
5 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 100 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods airstrike.png
Airstrike
Research:
5 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 100 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
4 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 900 Sl icon.png
210 Ge icon.png
Mods tank laser rangefinder.png
Laser rangefinder
Research:
4 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 900 Sl icon.png
210 Ge icon.png
Mods scouting.png
Improved optics
Research:
4 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 900 Sl icon.png
210 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
85mm_cn_APFSDS_ammo_pack
Research:
4 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 900 Sl icon.png
210 Ge icon.png

Armaments

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

Main armament

85 mm Type 63 cannon
Ammunition47 rounds
First-order6 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
9.6 → 7.4 s
Vertical guidance-5° / 22°
Main article: Type 63 (85 mm)

Still sharing the same gun as the Type 62 and 63, the Type 63 85 mm rifled cannon still handles totally identically to the Type 63 with some changes on the ammunition available. Players will find the same exact advantages and flaws from previous vehicles - while the calibre is larger than most light tanks of its tier with a variety of ammunition and now APFSDS among them, players need extra situational awareness to use the gun as it has much slower reaction time than most light tanks at its tier as well; plan ahead and turn the turret before any close-quarter assaults.

85 mm Type 63 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 47 -5°/+22° ±180° - 9.5 13.2 16.0 17.7 18.8 9.62 8.51 7.84 7.40
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
Type 56 HEAT-FS HEATFS 300 300 300 300 300 300
Type 56 HE HE 19 18 17 16 15 14
Type 56 APCBC APCBC 164 162 154 143 134 125
DJW85 APFSDS 227 225 217 208 199 190
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%
Type 56 HEAT-FS HEATFS 845 7 0.05 0.1 822.8 65° 72° 77°
Type 56 HE HE 785 9.54 0.2 0.1 741 79° 80° 81°
Type 56 APCBC APCBC 792 9.2 1.2 14 77 48° 63° 71°
DJW85 APFSDS 1,290 2.1 - - - 78° 80° 81°

The ZTS63's rounds are somewhat different from the original Type 63. The Type 56 APBC (aka BR-365 APHEBC) shell, well known for its generous explosive content and slope modifiers, is not available anymore. The returning Type 56 HEAT-FS is now the stock shell, which gives the ZTS63 the ability to engage heavy tanks like the IS-3 from the start. Compared to the ZBD86's PG-9 rocket propelled grenade, the HEAT-FS has the same penetration and a better muzzle velocity, which is helpful at medium and long ranges.

The stock "Type 56 HE" shell is a renamed O-365K and should be completely ignored, because the HEAT-FS has a greater explosive mass.

The only APHE shell available is the unlockable "Type 56 APCBC", a renamed BR-367 APCBC. Although it is not as efficient for knocking out light targets or scoring sideshots as BR-365, it still gets the job done with some careful aim and the enhanced flat penetration is nice to have. Enemy IFVs can be dispatched easily with a single AP shell, even from across the map, due to their thin armour and typically large profiles.

The top round is the DJW85 APFSDS, something completely new to the 85 mm caliber. Although Chinese tankers may be apprehensive about early domestic APFSDS rounds, DJW85 actually has better performance than the Type 69's Type 71 APFSDS despite being a significantly smaller round. Although it has a a lower muzzle velocity, it does not lose as much penetration over distances. The 2.1 kg projectile mass is not able to create much spalling, but it is a useful tool for disabling shots and targeting ammo racks in long range combat.

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the ZTS63
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		5th
rack empty 		6th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
47 42 (+5) 33 (+14) 24 (+23) 18 (+29) 10 (+37) 1 (+46) No

Notes:

  • Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
  • It is recommended to take 42 (+5) shells to clear the turret of ammunition.
  • Taking 18 (+29) shells clears the right hull of ammunition.
  • Taking 10 (+37) shells clears both hull sides of ammunition.

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)
Ammunition2 000 rounds
Belt capacity250 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate600 shots/min
Main articles: Type 54 (12.7 mm), Type 59 (7.62 mm)

The previous Type 63 has no HMG installed on top; in ZTS63's case, it has a pintle Type 54 DShK installed on the commander side of turret, giving it the chance to unleash 12.7 mm bullets against light targets or aircraft/helicopters that came too close.

12.7 mm Type 54
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Pintle 500 (50) 600 -4°/+82° ±180°
7.62 mm Type 59
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 2,000 (250) 600 - -

Usage in battles

At first glance, ZTS63 looks exactly like its pre-1980 cousin Type 63; this is indeed true as they are the same vehicle plus new FCS and a HMG mounted on the former, players from Type 63 will get their hands on the tank rather quickly thanks to their totally identical handling in terms of mobility and tactical flexibility to flank enemies. Do remember that ZTS63 is still a light tank with minimal protection due to its amphibious capability (for buoyancy reasons at complicated waters), while the turret might look very similar to T-54/ Type 59's, but the thickness is at most rated for HMG fire at longer distance; anything with a caliber of over 20 mm with have no problem tearing through the turret with ease, let alone the hull with even less protection. The design of ZTS63 is relatively large to LTs at its tier, therefore it is extremely essential to conceal the vehicle from enemy sights, going frontline means a quick death sentence to the tank as well; thus, the lightweight of the vehicle could be put into use by flanking enemies by taking detours to enemies' flanks, alternatively utilize the river network on some maps to launch sudden attacks from the rear (its 11 km/h on-water speed thanks to the water jet propulsion system certainly helps a lot). Another uncommon feature of ZTS63 from most LTs of its tier is its LRF and automatic ballistic solution, the tank might have insufficient magnification for long-range engagements, but the two aforementioned equipment will certainly helps taking out enemies showing their sides from afar; its stock HEATFS shell also helps as most LTs would have to either have to rely on APCR with subpar damage or lacking a rangefinder for long-range engagements. If HEATFS is not your cup of tea, its researchable, conventional APHE and the only 85 mm APFSDS in game will certainly give players more option to take down various enemies. The APHE shell is good for hitting enemies from the sides and blowing them out with its explosive fillers, while APFSDS ensures a flat trajectory and penetration to take out heavy targets up-front or at long range. Although messing with aircraft or rotorcraft on a ZTS63 is a rather unrecommended move, if there's one flying straight at the player, they might have to reconsider as the Type 54 DShK will give ZTS63 a chance to earn a surprise kill on aircraft; 12.7x108 mm bullets can certainly do extensive damage to enemies.

Overall, ZTS63 is a welcomed addition to PLAGF line-up thanks to its better FCS and various ammunition options; but do remember to plan your assaults ahead or turn the turret beforehand for incoming, unaware enemies, sudden strikes from unexpected places is the key to support the team to advance for victory.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Amphibious, allowing the use of surprise tactics involving rivers
  • Fast and nimble enough to get into vantage points
  • Laser rangefinder and automatic ballistic solution for long-range engagement
  • Access to HMG for self-defense against planes
  • APFSDS with ~220 mm penetration is effective against weakly armoured tanks like Leopard 1, AMX-30
  • Varieties of ammunition for different scenario

Cons:

  • Low survivability: unprotected with its paper-thin armour, and large size
  • Cannon struggles against late war heavy tanks like Maus, IS-4
  • Slow turret traverse speed
  • Relatively slow reload speed
  • No smoke grenades

History

As the previous Type 63 (ZTS63 after 1987) was commissioned by 1965, there were some flaws suggested by the PLA units that received the tank, thus the need for an upgrade on ZTS63 arose. There were a few major modifications for the tank including single transmission control stick, HMG gun mantlet, safety locks for hatches, revised seats, new suspension springs and etc. Among these modifications, some parts from late-production ZTQ62 including its fire control system and laser rangefinder were also introduced to the ZTS63 revision by the late 1970s. These tanks rolled off the production line by the same time and likely have join the Sino-Vietnamese War where its FCS and amphibious capabilities would shine due to the riverine terrain of Vietnam, where they were sometimes used as makeshift SPGs to strike fortifications or suppressing waves of infantry.

Some of these tanks were then modified to ZTS63A in the late 1990s with upgraded firepower in view for the possible landing operations. Although the landing didn't happen, the ZTS63A also set the footsteps for the later ZLT05 assault gun which is also currently the fastest amphibious armoured vehicle in commission.

Media

Skins

See also

External links


Norinco (China North Industries Corporation)
Light AFV/IFV 
WZ501  ZBD86¹
WZ131  ▂Type 62 · Type 62
WZ211  Type 63 · ZTS63
WZ502  ZBD04A
MBT 
WZ120  Type 59¹ · ZTZ59A · ZTZ59D1
WZ121  Type 69
WZ122  ZTZ88B · ZTZ88A · ZTZ96 · ZTZ96A · ZTZ96A (P)
WZ123  ZTZ99-II · ZTZ99-III
WZ1001  WZ1001(E) LCT · ZTZ99A
Tank Destroyers  AFT09 · PTL02 · PTZ89 · ZLT11
SPH  PLZ83
SPAA  ZSD63/PG87² · PGZ09 · PGZ04A
Export 
WZ121  Type 69-IIa · T-69 II G
MBT2000  MBT-2000 · Al-Khalid-I
MBT3000  VT4A1
Other  WMA301 · WZ305
  ¹ License production / Reverse engineered · ² Field modifications

China light tanks
Type 63  Object 211 · Type 63 · ZTS63
Type 62  Type 62
WZ551  ZSL92 · PTL02 · WMA301
ZBL08  ZLT11
Type 86  ZBD86
WZ502  ZBD04A
ROC  M41D · M64
Type 59  QN506
USA  ␗M8 LAC · ␗M3A3 Stuart · ␗M3A3 (1st PTG) · ␗M5A1 · ␗M24 · ␗M18 GMC · ␗M41A3
USSR  ␗T-26 · T-26 No.531 · ␗PT-76

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