Are MBTs obsolete?
Not completely obsolete but in most plausible battle scenarios, modern MBT are becoming less relevant. Back during WW2 the only possible way to break through heavily defended lines was using tanks, initially infantry tanks with adequate protection and firepower.
Are tanks still used in warfare?
Today the tank still remains a key part of most militaries. According to the International Institute for Strategic Studies there are 60,000 tanks in active service worldwide.
Are battle tanks becoming obsolete?
Despite doubts being raised over its viability, the main battle tank (MBT), remains the backbone of mechanized forces. “Of course, there will be new technologies and innovation that will be added to it and the vehicle would need to adapt, but the status of the battle tank will remain unchanged.”
What vehicles do mechanized infantry use?
Mechanized Infantry is a type of Ground force that combines Infantry with some form of Armored vehicles whose primary purpose is to provide heavy fire support. The vehicles in a Mechanized Infantry unit may include heavily-armed APCs, IFVs, Tank Destroyers or even Tanks.
What is the future of the infantry fighting vehicle?
Class-leading infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) such as Puma, K21 and BMP-3M, with superior self-protection and fire power, bridge the gap between armoured personnel carriers (APCs) and main battle tanks (MBTs). BAE Systems and General Dynamics are currently developing IFVs that will further elevate the role of the vehicles on the battlefield.
What is the difference between IFVs and tanks?
IFVs are designed to be more mobile than tanks and are equipped with a rapid-firing autocannon or a large conventional gun; they may include side ports for infantrymen to fire their personal weapons while on board.
What kind of weapons does the IFV have?
The IFV integrates a 40mm Bofors auto-cannon or 30mm Bushmaster Cannon or a 35mm/50 Bushmaster Cannon as a primary weapon. The remotely controlled weapon station can be mounted with a 7.62mm machine gun and a 40 mm automatic grenade launcher.
Who makes IFVs for the South Korean Army?
The IFV is being manufactured by Doosan DST for the Republic of Korea Army (South Korean Army). The indigenously built K21 IFV is designed to perform joint missions with main battle tanks and features a 20\% lighter structure compared with similar IFVs in its class.