Difference between revisions of "ZTZ96"

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(Fleshed out most of the page. Still needs detailed tables in Armaments and some usage tips.)
(Edits, added armament/mobility tables)
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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
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<!--''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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<!-- ''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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[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
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{{break}}
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Chinese medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.93 "Shark Attack"]].
  
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The '''ZTZ96''' is a Rank VI Chinese medium tank with a battle rating of 9.7. It was introduced in [[Update 1.93 "Shark Attack"]].
+
The first Chinese MBT in the game not directly based on or modified from a foreign design, the ZTZ96 has a more distinctive appearance and introduces several features not seen in previous Chinese medium tanks. The general layout is reminiscent of the [[T-72A|Soviet T-72]], but upon inspection, major differences are apparent in the design of the turret and hull. Most obviously, the welded turret is quite flat and angular compared to the dome shape traditionally favoured by the Soviet Union and China. The hull is also a departure from the traditional T-54 chassis, featuring smaller and more numerous roadwheels, a more steeply sloped upper glacis, and a more prominent lower glacis. Composite armour is present in the turret cheeks and on the upper glacis.
  
−
The first Chinese MBT in the game not directly based on or modified from a foreign design, the ZTZ96 has a more distinctive appearance and introduces several features not seen in previous Chinese medium tanks. The general layout is reminiscent of the [[T-72A|Soviet T-72]], but upon inspection, major differences are apparent in the design of the turret and hull. Most obviously, the welded turret is quite flat and angular compared to the dome shape traditionally favored by the Soviet Union and China. The hull is also a departure from the traditional T-54 chassis, featuring smaller and more numerous roadwheels, a more steeply sloped upper glacis, and a more prominent lower glacis. Composite armor is present in the turret cheeks and on the upper glacis.
+
The ZTZ96 features a 125 mm smoothbore cannon with an autoloader similar to the T-72, making it well armed. Its shell selection is somewhat limited but the APFSDS and HE shells should be sufficient for dealing with most ground targets.
−
 
 
−
The ZTZ96 features a 125mm smoothbore cannon with an autoloader similar to the T-72, making it well armed. Its shell selection is somewhat limited but the APFSDS and HE shells should be sufficient for dealing with most ground targets.  
 
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
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<!--''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?''
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<!-- ''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.'' -->
−
 
 
−
''If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
 
  
−
The ZTZ96's armor is a significant improvement over previous Chinese tanks like the [[CM11]] and [[ZTZ59D1]] but is not very competitive for its rank. It has a significant amount of chemical protection in the cheeks and upper glacis (580-600mm). After the reduction of 120mm HEAT-FS penetration in 1.93, this amount generally sufficient for resisting HEAT-FS rounds from enemy MBTs but remains vulnerable to certain ATGMs. Kinetic protection is less adequate, ranging from 350-380mm. This is marginal against early APFSDS rounds, but most enemies at its rank can punch through it with their top rounds, not even mentioning the rounds of the Rank VII MBTs that the ZTZ96 will commonly face in battle.
+
The ZTZ96's armour is a significant improvement over previous Chinese tanks like the [[CM11]] and [[ZTZ59D1]] but is not very competitive for its rank. It has a significant amount of chemical protection in the cheeks and upper glacis (580-600 mm). After the reduction of 120 mm HEAT-FS penetration in 1.93, this amount generally sufficient for resisting HEAT-FS rounds from enemy MBTs but remains vulnerable to certain ATGMs. Kinetic protection is less adequate, ranging from 350-380 mm. This is marginal against early APFSDS rounds, but most enemies at its rank can punch through it with their top rounds, not even mentioning the rounds of the Rank VII MBTs that the ZTZ96 will commonly face in battle.
  
 
As with other modern MBTs, the gun mantlet is highly susceptible to incoming fire, which can knock out the breech or hurt the crew. The lower glacis is also a weak point and should be hidden from enemy view when possible.
 
As with other modern MBTs, the gun mantlet is highly susceptible to incoming fire, which can knock out the breech or hurt the crew. The lower glacis is also a weak point and should be hidden from enemy view when possible.
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=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
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<!--''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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<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forward and backwards.'' -->
 +
The mobility of the ZTZ96 is generally unimpressive. It has 17.8 hp/ton when fully upgraded, which is about the same as the T-64B and less than the Challenger Mk.2; these two tanks are already considered quite immobile for their rank. The reverse speed of -9 km/h is painful but better than the agonizing 4 km/h of the Soviet T-64/72; do not count on being able to retreat from danger rapidly. In general the ZTZ96 will be among the last to arrive on the battlefield in top rank battles, and one should plan accordingly.
  
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The mobility of the ZTZ96 is generally unimpressive. It has 17.8 hp/ton when fully upgraded, which is about the same as the T-64B and less than the Challenger Mk.2; these two tanks are already considered quite immobile for their rank. The reverse speed of -9 km/h is painful but better than the agonizing 4 km/h of the Soviet T-64/72; do not count on being able to retreat from danger rapidly. In general the ZTZ96 will be among the last to arrive on the battlefield in top rank battles, and one should plan accordingly.
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="3" | Mobility characteristics
 +
|-
 +
! Weight (tons)
 +
! Add-on armour<br>weight (tons)
 +
! Max speed (km/h)
 +
|-
 +
| rowspan="2" | 41.0 || rowspan="2" | N/A
 +
| 64 (AB)
 +
|-
 +
| 57 (RB/SB)
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="3" | Engine power (horsepower)
 +
|-
 +
! Mode !! Stock !! Upgraded
 +
|-
 +
| ''Arcade'' || ??? || ???
 +
|-
 +
| ''Realistic/Simulator'' || ??? || 730
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="3" | Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
 +
|-
 +
! Mode !! Stock !! Upgraded
 +
|-
 +
| ''Arcade'' || ??.?? || ??.??
 +
|-
 +
| ''Realistic/Simulator'' || ??.?? || 17.8
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 
=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
 +
<!-- ''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. Advise about how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
 
{{main|Type 88C (125 mm)}}
 
{{main|Type 88C (125 mm)}}
  
−
''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.''
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="6" | [[Type 88C (125 mm)|125 mm Type 88C]]
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="3" | Capacity
 +
! Vertical<br>guidance
 +
! Horizontal<br>guidance
 +
! Stabilizer
 +
|-
 +
| colspan="3" | 40 || -6°/+14° || ±180° || Two-plane
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="6" | Turret rotation speed (°/s)
 +
|-
 +
! Mode
 +
! Stock
 +
! Upgraded
 +
! Prior +<br>Full crew
 +
! Prior +<br>Expert qualif.
 +
! Prior +<br>Ace qualif.
 +
|-
 +
| ''Arcade'' || ??.?? || ??.?? || ??.?? || ??.?? || ??.??
 +
|-
 +
| ''Realistic'' || ??.?? || ??.?? || ??.?? || ??.?? || ??.??
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
 +
|-
 +
! Stock
 +
! Prior +<br>Full crew
 +
! Prior +<br>Expert qualif.
 +
! Prior +<br>Ace qualif.
 +
|-
 +
| ??.?? || ??.?? || ??.?? || ??.??
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
==== Ammunition ====
 +
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 +
! 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
 +
|-
 +
| 125-I || APFSDS || 466 || 464 || 458 || 450 || 442 || 434
 +
|-
 +
| DTB-125 || HE || 45 || 45 || 45 || 45 || 45 || 45
 +
|-
 +
| DTP-125 || HEATFS || 480 || 480 || 480 || 480 || 480 || 480
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 +
! colspan="11" | 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)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Normalisation at 30°<br>from horizontal
 +
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
 +
|-
 +
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
 +
|-
 +
| 125-I || APFSDS || 1,730 || 4.02 || N/A || N/A || N/A || ?.?° || 78° || 80° || 81°
 +
|-
 +
| DTB-125 || HE || 850 || 23.0 || 0.1 || 0.1 || 5,463.9 || +0.0° || 79° || 80° || 81°
 +
|-
 +
| DTP-125 || HEATFS || 905 || 18.0 || N/A || 0.1 || 2,188.8 || +0.0° || 65° || 72° || 75°
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 +
<!-- [[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]] -->
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! Full<br>ammo
 +
! 1st<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
 +
|-
 +
| '''40''' || ?? ''(+??)'' || ?? ''(+??)'' || ?? ''(+??)'' || ?? ''(+??)'' || ?? ''(+??)'' || ?? ''(+??)'' || ??
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
==== [[Optics]] ====
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
! colspan="3" | {{PAGENAME}} Optics
 +
|-
 +
!
 +
! Default magnification
 +
! Maximum magnification
 +
|-
 +
! Main Gun optics
 +
| X7.2 || X8.0
 +
|-
 +
! Comparable optics
 +
| colspan="2" | ???
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
 +
<!-- ''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|QJC88A (12.7 mm)|Type 86 (7.62 mm)}}
 
{{main|QJC88A (12.7 mm)|Type 86 (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"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | [[QJC88A (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm QJC88A]]
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | ''Commander cupola mount''
 +
|-
 +
! Capacity<br>(Belt capacity)
 +
! Fire rate<br>(shots/minute)
 +
! Vertical<br>guidance
 +
! Horizontal<br>guidance
 +
|-
 +
| 500 (150) || 700 || -5°/+60° || ±180°
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | [[Type 86 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm Type 86]]
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | ''Coaxial mount''
 +
|-
 +
! Capacity<br>(Belt capacity)
 +
! Fire rate<br>(shots/minute)
 +
! Vertical<br>guidance
 +
! Horizontal<br>guidance
 +
|-
 +
| 2,500 (250) || 700 || N/A || N/A
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
== 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).''
 +
 +
=== Modules ===
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
! Tier
 +
! colspan="2" | Mobility
 +
! colspan="2" | Protection
 +
! colspan="2" | Firepower
 +
|-
 +
| I
 +
| Tracks
 +
|
 +
| Parts
 +
|
 +
| Horizontal Drive
 +
|
 +
|-
 +
| II
 +
| Suspension
 +
| Brake System
 +
| FPE
 +
| NVD
 +
| Adjustment of Fire
 +
|
 +
|-
 +
| III
 +
| Filters
 +
|
 +
| Crew Replenishment
 +
| Smoke grenade
 +
| Elevation Mechanism
 +
| Laser rangefinder
 +
|-
 +
| IV
 +
| Transmission
 +
| Engine
 +
| ESS
 +
|
 +
| Artillery Support
 +
| 125-I
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== 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:'''
−
 
 
* Powerful gun with access to high-penetrating APFSDS
 
* Powerful gun with access to high-penetrating APFSDS
 
* Autoloader reloads the cannon even when putting out fires or replacing crew members
 
* Autoloader reloads the cannon even when putting out fires or replacing crew members
 
* HE shell is currently the most powerful available to any high-rank MBT, can cripple or outright destroy enemies with a good shot
 
* HE shell is currently the most powerful available to any high-rank MBT, can cripple or outright destroy enemies with a good shot
 
* Low profile
 
* Low profile
−
* First Chinese tank equipped with composite armor, quite resistant to chemical munitions
+
* First Chinese tank equipped with composite armour, quite resistant to chemical munitions
 
* Roof mounted heavy machine gun is useful against aircraft and light targets
 
* Roof mounted heavy machine gun is useful against aircraft and light targets
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
 
 
* Mobility is below average at its rank
 
* Mobility is below average at its rank
−
* Composite armor's kinetic protection leaves some to be desired
+
* Composite armour's kinetic protection leaves some to be desired
−
* Has a larger lower front plate than Soviet MBTs, no composite armor there
+
* Has a larger lower front plate than Soviet MBTs, no composite armour there
 
* Autoloader carousel is a giant ammo rack
 
* Autoloader carousel is a giant ammo rack
 
* Slightly slower reload speed than the T-72A
 
* Slightly slower reload speed than the T-72A
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== History ==
 
== History ==
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<!--Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the ground 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></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article. 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 People's Liberation Army relied on the [[Type 59]] as its primary main battle tank for most of the Cold War. While cheap, reliable, and quite upgradeable, its design began to shows its age over the decades. The [[Type 69]] series differed little from the Type 59 in terms of appearance and was not used in quantity by the PLA. After relations with the Western world improved at the start of the 1980s, foreign technology was purchased and used to [[ZTZ59D1|upgrade the PLA's stock of existing tanks]]. However, there was only so much that could be done to bring the Type 59 up to a competitive level and more efforts were devoted to domestic tank development.
 
The People's Liberation Army relied on the [[Type 59]] as its primary main battle tank for most of the Cold War. While cheap, reliable, and quite upgradeable, its design began to shows its age over the decades. The [[Type 69]] series differed little from the Type 59 in terms of appearance and was not used in quantity by the PLA. After relations with the Western world improved at the start of the 1980s, foreign technology was purchased and used to [[ZTZ59D1|upgrade the PLA's stock of existing tanks]]. However, there was only so much that could be done to bring the Type 59 up to a competitive level and more efforts were devoted to domestic tank development.
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The new Type 80/88 tank retained the general appearance of the Type 59, but its chassis was heavily redesigned, featuring a new suspension, a licensed German engine, and other changes. The turret retained the cast dome design but a 105mm gun was installed.
 
The new Type 80/88 tank retained the general appearance of the Type 59, but its chassis was heavily redesigned, featuring a new suspension, a licensed German engine, and other changes. The turret retained the cast dome design but a 105mm gun was installed.
  
−
As with other PRC tank models, development continued for a long time and a large number of variants were made. The Type 85 branch featured welded turrets; the initial Type 85-1 "Storm" was intended for export and was otherwise similar to the original series, but no orders were placed from the PLA or export customers. A more radical development was the Type 85-IIM, which featured a welded turret equipped with an autoloading 125mm gun derived from the T-72. It also featured composite armor. This variant was exported to Pakistan under the designation of Type 85-IIAP.
+
As with other PRC tank models, development continued for a long time and a large number of variants were made. The Type 85 branch featured welded turrets; the initial Type 85-1 "Storm" was intended for export and was otherwise similar to the original series, but no orders were placed from the PLA or export customers. A more radical development was the Type 85-IIM, which featured a welded turret equipped with an autoloading 125mm gun derived from the T-72. It also featured composite armour. This variant was exported to Pakistan under the designation of Type 85-IIAP.
  
−
The Type 85-IIM was later procured for domestic use, with some changes, as the Type 88C or '''Type 96''', spurred by the poor performance of the Iraqi Army's Type 79 tanks (which featured roughly the same protection as the 80/88) in the Gulf War. As can be expected, this was further developed into the Type 96A and 96B variants. The 96A introduced applique "arrowhead" armor on the front turret face and ERA mounts on the upper glacis, improving protection significantly, and the electronics were improved to a standard approaching to the top-line Type 99 tank, including a gunner's thermal sight and FCS upgrades. The 96A has participated in Tank Biathlons, where it scored well in gunnery but was let down by its underpowered engine. The ultimate 96B variant appeared in 2016 and features comprehensive all-round upgrades with a much more powerful 1130 hp engine. Finally, an export variant called the VT-2 has been showcased by Norinco, generally similar to the Type 96A.
+
The Type 85-IIM was later procured for domestic use, with some changes, as the Type 88C or '''Type 96''', spurred by the poor performance of the Iraqi Army's Type 79 tanks (which featured roughly the same protection as the 80/88) in the Gulf War. As can be expected, this was further developed into the Type 96A and 96B variants. The 96A introduced applique "arrowhead" armour on the front turret face and ERA mounts on the upper glacis, improving protection significantly, and the electronics were improved to a standard approaching to the top-line Type 99 tank, including a gunner's thermal sight and FCS upgrades. The 96A has participated in Tank Biathlons, where it scored well in gunnery but was let down by its underpowered engine. The ultimate 96B variant appeared in 2016 and features comprehensive all-round upgrades with a much more powerful 1130 hp engine. Finally, an export variant called the VT-2 has been showcased by Norinco, generally similar to the Type 96A.
  
 
At present the Type 96 series can be considered the backbone of the PLA's tank forces, featuring good protection and firepower with a relatively low weight and cost, comparable in role to the Russian T-90. Elite units are issued the more advanced and heavier Type 99, but cost and terrain reasons have limited its deployment. Outside of China, the Type 96 has been exported to Sudan; reportedly these tanks have destroyed several South Sudanese T-72s in combat.
 
At present the Type 96 series can be considered the backbone of the PLA's tank forces, featuring good protection and firepower with a relatively low weight and cost, comparable in role to the Russian T-90. Elite units are issued the more advanced and heavier Type 99, but cost and terrain reasons have limited its deployment. Outside of China, the Type 96 has been exported to Sudan; reportedly these tanks have destroyed several South Sudanese T-72s in combat.
  
−
===Devblog Description===
+
===[[wt:en/news/6445-development-ztz96-top-tier-chinese-en|Devblog]]===
−
Work on the ZTZ96 began in the early 1990s, as new Chinese MBT with larger 125mm smoothbore cannon supported by an autoloading mechanism and new composite armor protection. The first prototype was built in May 1991 and underwent successful testing until January of the following year. Having received the official designation ZTZ85-IIAP, production of the vehicle commenced, with the Pakistani army receiving its first units shortly afterwards.  
+
Work on the ZTZ96 began in the early 1990s, as new Chinese MBT with larger 125mm smoothbore cannon supported by an autoloading mechanism and new composite armour protection. The first prototype was built in May 1991 and underwent successful testing until January of the following year. Having received the official designation ZTZ85-IIAP, production of the vehicle commenced, with the Pakistani army receiving its first units shortly afterwards.
  
 
Several years later, the decision was made to adopt the ZTZ85-IIAP for domestic use as a stopgap measure to equip the PLA with a capable combat vehicle. In 1996, the vehicles destined for PLA use were formally redesignated into ZTZ96 and production of the type began in 1998.
 
Several years later, the decision was made to adopt the ZTZ85-IIAP for domestic use as a stopgap measure to equip the PLA with a capable combat vehicle. In 1996, the vehicles destined for PLA use were formally redesignated into ZTZ96 and production of the type began in 1998.
−
 
−
''- From [[wt:en/news/6445-development-ztz96-top-tier-chinese-en|Devblog]]''
 
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
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== See also ==
 
== See also ==
 
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
''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;''
 
* ''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.''
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
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* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''encyclopedia page on the tank;''
 
* ''encyclopedia page on the tank;''
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* ''other literature.''-->
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* ''other literature.'' -->
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* [[wt:en/news/6445-development-ztz96-top-tier-chinese-en|[Development<nowiki>]</nowiki> ZTZ96: Top-Tier Chinese]]
 
* [[wt:en/news/6445-development-ztz96-top-tier-chinese-en|[Development<nowiki>]</nowiki> ZTZ96: Top-Tier Chinese]]
  
 
{{China medium tanks}}
 
{{China medium tanks}}

Revision as of 11:16, 30 October 2019

Introducing Wiki 3.0
ZTZ96
cn_ztz_96.png
ZTZ96
China flag.png China
VI Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
9.3 9.3 9.3
Class:
Research:220 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:620 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png

Description

GarageImage ZTZ96.jpg


The ZhuangJia Tanke ZhuZhan 96 is a rank VI Chinese medium tank with a battle rating of 9.3 (AB/RB/SB). It was introduced in Update 1.93 "Shark Attack".

The first Chinese MBT in the game not directly based on or modified from a foreign design, the ZTZ96 has a more distinctive appearance and introduces several features not seen in previous Chinese medium tanks. The general layout is reminiscent of the Soviet T-72, but upon inspection, major differences are apparent in the design of the turret and hull. Most obviously, the welded turret is quite flat and angular compared to the dome shape traditionally favoured by the Soviet Union and China. The hull is also a departure from the traditional T-54 chassis, featuring smaller and more numerous roadwheels, a more steeply sloped upper glacis, and a more prominent lower glacis. Composite armour is present in the turret cheeks and on the upper glacis.

The ZTZ96 features a 125 mm smoothbore cannon with an autoloader similar to the T-72, making it well armed. Its shell selection is somewhat limited but the APFSDS and HE shells should be sufficient for dealing with most ground targets.

General info

Survivability and armour

The ZTZ96's armour is a significant improvement over previous Chinese tanks like the CM11 and ZTZ59D1 but is not very competitive for its rank. It has a significant amount of chemical protection in the cheeks and upper glacis (580-600 mm). After the reduction of 120 mm HEAT-FS penetration in 1.93, this amount generally sufficient for resisting HEAT-FS rounds from enemy MBTs but remains vulnerable to certain ATGMs. Kinetic protection is less adequate, ranging from 350-380 mm. This is marginal against early APFSDS rounds, but most enemies at its rank can punch through it with their top rounds, not even mentioning the rounds of the Rank VII MBTs that the ZTZ96 will commonly face in battle.

As with other modern MBTs, the gun mantlet is highly susceptible to incoming fire, which can knock out the breech or hurt the crew. The lower glacis is also a weak point and should be hidden from enemy view when possible.

The survivability leaves much to be desired. The autoloader uses a layout similar to the T-72A; a penetrating shot to the lower glacis or hull side has a high likelihood of detonating the ammunition and instantly destroying the tank. Granted, this is slightly less likely to happen than in the T-64/80 since the propellant charges are stacked horizontally instead of vertically. In addition, with 3 only crew members, it is easier to knock out the tank with a good shot, particularly since the driver and gunner are lined up when the turret is facing forwards.

Mobility

The mobility of the ZTZ96 is generally unimpressive. It has 17.8 hp/ton when fully upgraded, which is about the same as the T-64B and less than the Challenger Mk.2; these two tanks are already considered quite immobile for their rank. The reverse speed of -9 km/h is painful but better than the agonizing 4 km/h of the Soviet T-64/72; do not count on being able to retreat from danger rapidly. In general the ZTZ96 will be among the last to arrive on the battlefield in top rank battles, and one should plan accordingly.

Mobility characteristics
Weight (tons) Add-on armour
weight (tons) 		Max speed (km/h)
41.0 N/A 64 (AB)
57 (RB/SB)
Engine power (horsepower)
Mode Stock Upgraded
Arcade  ???  ???
Realistic/Simulator  ??? 730
Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Mode Stock Upgraded
Arcade  ??.??  ??.??
Realistic/Simulator  ??.?? 17.8

Armaments

Main armament

Main article: Type 88C (125 mm)
125 mm Type 88C
Capacity Vertical
guidance 		Horizontal
guidance 		Stabilizer
40 -6°/+14° ±180° Two-plane
Turret rotation speed (°/s)
Mode Stock Upgraded Prior +
Full crew 		Prior +
Expert qualif. 		Prior +
Ace qualif.
Arcade  ??.??  ??.??  ??.??  ??.??  ??.??
Realistic  ??.??  ??.??  ??.??  ??.??  ??.??
Reloading rate (seconds)
Stock Prior +
Full crew 		Prior +
Expert qualif. 		Prior +
Ace qualif.
 ??.??  ??.??  ??.??  ??.??

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
125-I APFSDS 466 464 458 450 442 434
DTB-125 HE 45 45 45 45 45 45
DTP-125 HEATFS 480 480 480 480 480 480
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
Mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive Mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Normalisation at 30°
from horizontal 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
125-I APFSDS 1,730 4.02 N/A N/A N/A  ?.?° 78° 80° 81°
DTB-125 HE 850 23.0 0.1 0.1 5,463.9 +0.0° 79° 80° 81°
DTP-125 HEATFS 905 18.0 N/A 0.1 2,188.8 +0.0° 65° 72° 75°

Ammo racks

Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		5th
rack empty 		6th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
40  ?? (+??)  ?? (+??)  ?? (+??)  ?? (+??)  ?? (+??)  ?? (+??)  ??

Optics

ZTZ96 Optics
Default magnification Maximum magnification
Main Gun optics X7.2 X8.0
Comparable optics  ???

Machine guns

Main articles: QJC88A (12.7 mm), Type 86 (7.62 mm)
12.7 mm QJC88A
Commander cupola mount
Capacity
(Belt capacity) 		Fire rate
(shots/minute) 		Vertical
guidance 		Horizontal
guidance
500 (150) 700 -5°/+60° ±180°
7.62 mm Type 86
Coaxial mount
Capacity
(Belt capacity) 		Fire rate
(shots/minute) 		Vertical
guidance 		Horizontal
guidance
2,500 (250) 700 N/A N/A

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).

Modules

Tier Mobility Protection Firepower
I Tracks Parts Horizontal Drive
II Suspension Brake System FPE NVD Adjustment of Fire
III Filters Crew Replenishment Smoke grenade Elevation Mechanism Laser rangefinder
IV Transmission Engine ESS Artillery Support 125-I

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Powerful gun with access to high-penetrating APFSDS
  • Autoloader reloads the cannon even when putting out fires or replacing crew members
  • HE shell is currently the most powerful available to any high-rank MBT, can cripple or outright destroy enemies with a good shot
  • Low profile
  • First Chinese tank equipped with composite armour, quite resistant to chemical munitions
  • Roof mounted heavy machine gun is useful against aircraft and light targets

Cons:

  • Mobility is below average at its rank
  • Composite armour's kinetic protection leaves some to be desired
  • Has a larger lower front plate than Soviet MBTs, no composite armour there
  • Autoloader carousel is a giant ammo rack
  • Slightly slower reload speed than the T-72A
  • No thermal sights, unlike the preceding ZTZ59D1
  • Poor reverse speed
  • Below average gun depression (-6°)
  • Only 3 crew members

History

The People's Liberation Army relied on the Type 59 as its primary main battle tank for most of the Cold War. While cheap, reliable, and quite upgradeable, its design began to shows its age over the decades. The Type 69 series differed little from the Type 59 in terms of appearance and was not used in quantity by the PLA. After relations with the Western world improved at the start of the 1980s, foreign technology was purchased and used to upgrade the PLA's stock of existing tanks. However, there was only so much that could be done to bring the Type 59 up to a competitive level and more efforts were devoted to domestic tank development.

The new Type 80/88 tank retained the general appearance of the Type 59, but its chassis was heavily redesigned, featuring a new suspension, a licensed German engine, and other changes. The turret retained the cast dome design but a 105mm gun was installed.

As with other PRC tank models, development continued for a long time and a large number of variants were made. The Type 85 branch featured welded turrets; the initial Type 85-1 "Storm" was intended for export and was otherwise similar to the original series, but no orders were placed from the PLA or export customers. A more radical development was the Type 85-IIM, which featured a welded turret equipped with an autoloading 125mm gun derived from the T-72. It also featured composite armour. This variant was exported to Pakistan under the designation of Type 85-IIAP.

The Type 85-IIM was later procured for domestic use, with some changes, as the Type 88C or Type 96, spurred by the poor performance of the Iraqi Army's Type 79 tanks (which featured roughly the same protection as the 80/88) in the Gulf War. As can be expected, this was further developed into the Type 96A and 96B variants. The 96A introduced applique "arrowhead" armour on the front turret face and ERA mounts on the upper glacis, improving protection significantly, and the electronics were improved to a standard approaching to the top-line Type 99 tank, including a gunner's thermal sight and FCS upgrades. The 96A has participated in Tank Biathlons, where it scored well in gunnery but was let down by its underpowered engine. The ultimate 96B variant appeared in 2016 and features comprehensive all-round upgrades with a much more powerful 1130 hp engine. Finally, an export variant called the VT-2 has been showcased by Norinco, generally similar to the Type 96A.

At present the Type 96 series can be considered the backbone of the PLA's tank forces, featuring good protection and firepower with a relatively low weight and cost, comparable in role to the Russian T-90. Elite units are issued the more advanced and heavier Type 99, but cost and terrain reasons have limited its deployment. Outside of China, the Type 96 has been exported to Sudan; reportedly these tanks have destroyed several South Sudanese T-72s in combat.

Devblog

Work on the ZTZ96 began in the early 1990s, as new Chinese MBT with larger 125mm smoothbore cannon supported by an autoloading mechanism and new composite armour protection. The first prototype was built in May 1991 and underwent successful testing until January of the following year. Having received the official designation ZTZ85-IIAP, production of the vehicle commenced, with the Pakistani army receiving its first units shortly afterwards.

Several years later, the decision was made to adopt the ZTZ85-IIAP for domestic use as a stopgap measure to equip the PLA with a capable combat vehicle. In 1996, the vehicles destined for PLA use were formally redesignated into ZTZ96 and production of the type began in 1998.

Media

Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.

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


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

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