This futuristic tank even features a drone that may be deployed out of the roof
8 hours in the past
- Growth of the next-generation tank may very well be accomplished by 2030 earlier than it’s deployed in 2040.
- A hydrogen powertrain can be way more appropriate for the battlefield than an all-electric choice.
- Outfitted with autonomous capabilities and radar-absorbent paint, it’s designed for stealthy fight.
No, the futuristic-looking tank you’re taking a look at isn’t a prop from a Hollywood film set, nor has it been lifted from a online game. As an alternative, that is Hyundai’s imaginative and prescient for a next-generation predominant battle tank, which can ultimately use a fancy hydrogen gas cell powertrain. This might very effectively be the way forward for warfare.
This isn’t our first time seeing this intriguing tank. Formally dubbed the Fundamental Battle Tank, however also referred to as the K3, an idea for it was first unveiled 12 months in the past on the Seoul Worldwide Aerospace & Design Exhibition. It’s since been showcased by Hyundai Rotem – the carmaker’s heavy trade firm – at a number of different occasions in Korea and Europe.
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Visually, there’s no mistaking this tank from some other. The outside is clad in honeycomb-shaped panels and it could look proper at dwelling in Halo. Slim LED headlights are seen and there’s a fully large 130 mm smoothbore predominant gun. The physique is produced from modular metal, ceramic, and composite armor and is anticipated to hit the battlefield with autonomous driving capabilities.
Final yr, it was prompt the K3 may very well be utterly unmanned and managed solely by a distant operator, however present reviews recommend it will probably certainly help a crew of three. It will possibly additionally deploy drones, which may very well be fairly useful in reconnaissance missions. Hyundai Rotem says radar-absorbent paint has been used to assist make sure the K3 avoids detection.
Korea’s navy presently makes use of a tank often called the K2 Black Panther, fitted with a 1,500 hp 12-cylinder diesel engine. The K3 could initially be produced with a diesel engine too, though it will likely be complemented by a hydrogen gas cell. Shifting ahead, the tank could swap solely to hydrogen energy. This is able to simply assist the atmosphere however would decrease the tank’s thermal signature, making it tougher for adversaries to identify.
As compelling because the K3 is, it’s nonetheless a great distance off reaching actuality. In reality, improvement isn’t anticipated to be accomplished till 2030 and it could not deployed by the Korean navy till 2040.
