A next-generation main battle tank, which can be operated by two soldiers for all-dimensional attacks and all-directional self-protection, will be developed by China, according to China North Vehicle Research Institute director Mao Ming.

The Chinese Army currently uses a type-99 main battle tank, which can accommodate three crew members.

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The next-generation tank could run with only 2 crew members, a gunner and a driver.

It could also feature enhanced information ability and fire performance, indirect aiming and shooting ability and aerial target interception.

The main battle tank will be equipped with a target detecting device connected to a command-and-attack network and numerous command systems and sensors from which the tank will receive real-time target information.

China’s next-generation tank will be a lightweight vehicle with good strategic mobile capacity facilitating rapid deployment on the battlefield.

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The tank’s chassis system allows changeable and modularised loads for battles in the city or the field in north China and in south China, according to Mao Ming.

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