Difference between revisions of "ZTZ99-III"

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{{About
 +
| about = Chinese MBT '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 +
| usage = other versions
 +
| link = ZTZ99 (Family)
 +
}}
 
{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=cn_ztz_99_w
 
|code=cn_ztz_99_w
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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.'' The text within these arrows are not to be deleted -->
 
<!-- ''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 text within these arrows are not to be deleted -->
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Chinese medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Direct Hit"]].
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (ZTZ99式主战坦克 III类定型状态; lit. Third Type Certified Design; industrial code WZ123B) is the finalized 2004 design of the WZ123 project, with slight alterations to both the turret and hull (extended rear turret basket and ERA coverage, and revised welded turret and ERA block placements). This design soon became the standardized revision of ZTZ99 and was first shown in military training images by 2006. First officially publicized during an exhibition at the Military Museum of the Chinese People's Revolution (中国人民革命军事博物馆) and being the leading vehicle phalanx of the 60th National Day Parade in 2009, the ZTZ99 is still in service with its LRIP version ([[ZTZ99-II]]) and its successor ([[ZTZ99A]]), mostly in northern China and Tibetan Plateau where there are extensive plains for tank assaults and defense.
  
−
An overhaul upgrade of the older [[ZTZ99-II]], ZTZ99-III (Stage 3) retained the same firepower, sufficient mobility and tough frontal armour while eliminating some of the design flaws in the previous design. It might not be the top-notch MBT to be utilized, but ZTZ99-III still provides a reliable top-tier lineup for the Chinese tech tree and a valuable upgrade for its older brother.
+
Introduced in [[Update "Direct Hit"]], ZTZ99-III is an overhaul upgrade of the older ZTZ99-II. While retaining the same firepower, mobility, and frontal armor, the ZTZ99-III has eliminated some design flaws present in the previous version. Although it may not be the most advanced MBT available, the ZTZ99-III is a reliable addition to the top-tier lineup of the Chinese tech tree and an important upgrade for its predecessor.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
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There are plenty of weak spots on the hull. First, the lower glacis has no composite armour or ERA whatsoever and can be penetrated by practically anything, and it also is proportionally larger than on Soviet MBTs. Penetrating shots there have a large chance of detonating the ammo in the autoloader and destroying the tank. The upper glacis composite armour is modeled with a large cutout for the driver's optics, as on the Soviet T-64/72 series, and even the FY-4 ERA there is not enough to save it from powerful APFSDS. Some small portions of the upper glacis are not covered by ERA either.
 
There are plenty of weak spots on the hull. First, the lower glacis has no composite armour or ERA whatsoever and can be penetrated by practically anything, and it also is proportionally larger than on Soviet MBTs. Penetrating shots there have a large chance of detonating the ammo in the autoloader and destroying the tank. The upper glacis composite armour is modeled with a large cutout for the driver's optics, as on the Soviet T-64/72 series, and even the FY-4 ERA there is not enough to save it from powerful APFSDS. Some small portions of the upper glacis are not covered by ERA either.
  
−
The turret has its fair share of weak spots as well. The gun mantlet area has no composite armour and penetrating shots will usually take out the gun breech and possibly a crew member. There is a cutout in the ERA array on the left cheek to allow the driver to enter and exit the tank that reduces the protection there. Thanks for the redesign of the new turret, ZTZ99-III eliminated the bulged, cast part of the turret and thus increasing the survivability of the turret crew; it might still be penetrated by some shells but those are in rare cases.
+
The turret has its fair share of weak spots as well. The gun mantlet area has no composite armour and penetrating shots will usually take out the gun breech and possibly a crew member. There is a cutout in the ERA array on the left cheek to allow the driver to enter and exit the tank that reduces the protection there. Thanks for the redesign of the new turret, the ZTZ99-III eliminated the bulged, cast part of the turret and thus increasing the survivability of the turret crew; it might still be penetrated by some shells but those are in rare cases.
  
 
The ZTZ99-III does not have any ERA on the hull sides and the base hull side armour of 50 mm is thinner than Soviet MBTs, so be careful of IFVs with autocannons. Successful hits to the side will usually total the tank, either detonating the ammo racks or knocking out the turret crew.
 
The ZTZ99-III does not have any ERA on the hull sides and the base hull side armour of 50 mm is thinner than Soviet MBTs, so be careful of IFVs with autocannons. Successful hits to the side will usually total the tank, either detonating the ammo racks or knocking out the turret crew.
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The ZTZ99-III's armour protection has enough gaps that it can be considered "trolly" as opposed to "well-protected", but the areas that are well-protected are very strong. It's best to stay at long range and utilize the ZTZ99-III's low profile in conjunction with cover to make it difficult for enemies to hit the weak spots. Putting some bushes near the driver's hatch or gun mantlet might help. Remember that ERA is destroyed upon absorbing fire and the composite armour alone does not have sufficient protection for a top-tier vehicle.
 
The ZTZ99-III's armour protection has enough gaps that it can be considered "trolly" as opposed to "well-protected", but the areas that are well-protected are very strong. It's best to stay at long range and utilize the ZTZ99-III's low profile in conjunction with cover to make it difficult for enemies to hit the weak spots. Putting some bushes near the driver's hatch or gun mantlet might help. Remember that ERA is destroyed upon absorbing fire and the composite armour alone does not have sufficient protection for a top-tier vehicle.
  
−
As a last note, the GL-7 laser dazzler is physically modeled on the left side of the turret roof as a laser rangefinder, but its countermeasuring capabilities are not implemented. The ZTZ99-III does not have the capability to spoof ATGMs like the [[T-90A]].
+
As a last note, the GL-7 laser dazzler is physically modeled on the left side of the turret roof as a laser rangefinder, but its countermeasuring capabilities are not implemented.
  
−
'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
+
'''Armour type:'''
−
<!-- Example: * Rolled homogeneous armour (Front, Side, Rear, Hull roof)
+
 
−
* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret, Transmission area) -->
+
* Rolled homogeneous armour (hull, turret cheeks, turret roof, cupolas)
 +
* Cast homogeneous armour (turret, gun mantlet, driver hatch)
 +
* Rubber-fabric screens (side skirts)
 +
* Structural steel (slat armour)
  
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
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! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Hull || ___ mm || ___ mm ''Top'' <br> ___ mm ''Bottom'' || ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm
+
| Hull || 20 mm (70°) ''Upper front'' <br> 80 mm (60°) ''Lower front'' || 80 mm ''Top'' <br> 20 mm (21°) ''Bottom'' || 45 mm (10°) ''Upper plate'' <br> 45 mm (45°) ''Lower glacis'' <br> 20 mm ''Engine vent'' || 30 mm ''Driving compartment'' <br> 20 mm ''Engine compartment'' <br> 5 mm ''Engine vents''
 +
|-
 +
| Turret || 220 mm ''Turret front'' <br> 310 mm ''Gun mantlet'' || 80 mm (volumetric) || 35 mm || 30-50 mm
 +
|-
 +
| Cupola || colspan="3" | 45 mm (cylindrical) || 35 mm
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
! Composite armour !! Frontal effective protection
 +
|-
 +
| Hull ||'''Upper glacis (ERA counted):''' <br> 600-700 mm ''Kinetic'' / 1,050-1,300 mm ''Chemical''
 +
|-
 +
| Turret ||'''Turret front (ERA counted):''' <br> 550-750 mm ''Kinetic'' / 1,000-1,300 mm ''Chemical'' <br> '''Gun mantlet:''' <br> 30-400 mm ''Kinetic'' / 60-400 mm ''Chemical''
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
! FY-4 Explosive reactive armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Turret || ___ - ___ mm ''Turret front'' <br> ___ mm ''Gun mantlet'' || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm
+
| Hull ||'''Upper glacis:''' <br> 180 mm ''Kinetic''/ 550 mm ''Chemical'' || N/A
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Cupola || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm
+
| Turret ||'''Turret front:''' <br> 180 mm ''Kinetic''/ 550 mm ''Chemical'' || '''Rear side:''' <br> 50 mm ''Kinetic'' / 350 mm ''Chemical''
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
'''Notes:''' <!-- Any additional notes which the user needs to be aware of -->
+
'''Notes:'''
−
<!-- Example: * Suspension wheels are 20 mm thick, tracks are 30 mm thick, and torsion bars are 60 mm thick. -->
+
 
 +
* Suspension wheels, tracks, and torsion bars are 20 mm thick.
 +
* Side skirts are 8 mm thick, and slat armour on the turret sides and rear is 10 mm thick.
 +
* A log placed at the rear of the hull is 100 mm thick.
 +
* A 5 mm thick internal RHA screen separates the engine compartment from the crew compartment.
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
 
{{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.'' The text within these arrows are not to be deleted -->
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' The text within these arrows are not to be deleted -->
−
The ZTZ99-III's mobility is still below average for a top rank vehicle. Although it has a sizeable 1200 horsepower NORINCO Shaanxi Diesel 12V150HB diesel engine, which is comparable to the [[T-80U]]'s 1250 hp gas turbine engine and among the most powerful Eastern Blog diesel engines. The tank itself also weighs more than 50 tons, which approaches the weight of the [[Leopard 2A4]] and [[M1 Abrams]]. Among contemporaries, the power-to-weight ratio is better than the [[Challenger 2]] and comparable to the [[Ariete PSO]] or [[T-72B3]]. Though it is quite fast in a straight line, it does need a considerably long time to pick up speed especially when stock or across rough terrain. It also does not have neutral steering due to the design of transmission, and the reverse speed of 5 km/h is truly abysmal. The ZTZ99 can get into battle reasonably quickly but does not excel at flanking and will struggle to retreat from sticky situations.
+
The ZTZ99-III's mobility is still below average for a top rank vehicle. Although it has a sizeable 1,200 horsepower NORINCO Shaanxi Diesel 12V150HB diesel engine, which is comparable to the [[T-80U]]'s 1,250 hp gas turbine engine and among the most powerful Eastern Blog diesel engines. The tank itself also weighs more than 50 tons, which approaches the weight of the [[Leopard 2A4]] and [[M1 Abrams]]. Among contemporaries, the power-to-weight ratio is better than the [[Challenger 2]] and comparable to the [[Ariete PSO]] or [[T-72B3]]. Though it is quite fast in a straight line, it does need a considerably long time to pick up speed especially when stock or across rough terrain. It also does not have neutral steering due to the design of transmission, and the reverse speed of -5 km/h is truly abysmal. The ZTZ99-III can get into battle reasonably quickly but does not excel at flanking and will struggle to retreat from sticky situations.
  
−
{{tankMobility}}
+
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1860|rbMinHp=1061}}
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
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{{main|ZPT98 (125 mm)}}
 
{{main|ZPT98 (125 mm)}}
  
−
Same as his predecessor ZTZ99-II, the ZPT98 cannon is a 125 mm smoothbore cannon with an autoloader, much like the 2A46 cannon used by the T-72 or the Type 88C cannon used by the ZTZ96, but it is 50 calibres long instead of 48. The reload speed of 7.1 seconds is the slowest of any top-rank vehicle, so destroying or crippling enemies in one shot is important. The gun handling is the same as the ZTZ96 series, being slightly better than most Soviet MBTs barring the [[T-72B3]] but still lower than most Western MBTs.
+
The ZPT98 cannon is a 125 mm smoothbore cannon with an autoloader, much like the 2A46 cannon used by the T-72 or the Type 88C cannon used by the ZTZ96, but it is 50 calibres long instead of 48. The reload speed of 7.1 seconds is the slowest of any top-rank vehicle, so destroying or crippling enemies in one shot is important. The gun handling is the same as the ZTZ96 series, being slightly better than most Soviet MBTs barring the [[T-72B3]] but still lower than most Western MBTs.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | [[ZPT98 (125 mm)|125 mm ZPT98]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
+
! colspan="5" | [[ZPT98 (125 mm)|125 mm ZPT98]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || Reloading rate (seconds)
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
 
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
 
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
 
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
−
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
+
! Autoloader
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
−
| rowspan="2" | 39 || rowspan="2" | -5°/+13° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 28.6 || 39.5 || 48.0 || 53.1 || 56.5 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10
+
| rowspan="2" | 39 || rowspan="2" | -5°/+13° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 28.6 || 39.5 || 48.0 || 53.1 || 56.5 || rowspan="2" | 7.10
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
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Since the ZTZ99-III is an upgraded ZTZ99-II with some redesigned appearance but not in terms of firepower, both share the same ammunition.
 
Since the ZTZ99-III is an upgraded ZTZ99-II with some redesigned appearance but not in terms of firepower, both share the same ammunition.
  
−
The stock DTP-125 HEAT-FS round has the typical penetration of 480 mm shared by Western MBTs with 120 mm guns, but this is not enough to deal with tanks with composite armour, which are the norm at both ZTZ99's battle ratings. The post-penetration damage is also disappointing. Only use it as an interim shell before APFSDS is unlocked. With 2.19 kg of explosive mass, it is sometimes capable of knocking out light targets like SPAAs and light tanks with overpressure damage, so keep an eye out for those.
+
The stock DTP-125 HEATFS round has the typical penetration of 480 mm shared by Western MBTs with 120 mm guns, but this is not enough to deal with tanks with composite armour, which are the norm at the ZTZ99's battle rating. The post-penetration damage is also disappointing. Only use it as an interim shell before APFSDS is unlocked. With 2.19 kg of explosive mass, it is sometimes capable of knocking out light targets like SPAAs and light tanks with overpressure damage, so keep an eye out for those.
 +
 
 +
The stock DTB-125 HE shell is one of the strongest of any top-rank MBT. It can actually cause more damage to MBTs than the HEATFS round if fired at turret rings, hull roofs, and turret cupolas, especially with overpressure damage. Well-placed impacts have a good chance of transmitting the shockwave into the crew compartment and knocking the target out instantly, even against the toughest MBTs like the [[Leopard 2A6]]. It helps to keep a few HE rounds around even after APFSDS is unlocked as they excel at causing pressure damage to light targets.
 +
 
 +
The ZTZ99-III also has access to the GP125 tandem ATGM, which performs identically to its Soviet counterpart. If players find their darts are not effective against well-armoured targets, the sufficient velocity and penetration can ruin the day of such vehicles, as well as helicopters if they don't evade the incoming missile.
  
−
The stock DTB-125 HE shell is one of the strongest of any top-rank MBT. It can actually cause more damage to MBTs than the HEAT-FS round if fired at turret rings, hull roofs, and turret cupolas. Well-placed impacts have a good chance of transmitting the shockwave into the crew compartment and knocking the target out instantly, even against the toughest MBTs like the [[Leopard 2A6]]. It helps to keep a few HE rounds around even after APFSDS is unlocked as they excel at causing pressure damage to light targets.
+
The 125-I APFSDS round is a Tier 1 modification. Though it first appeared on the [[ZTZ96]], it is still a decent option for the ZTZ99 and eases the stock grind considerably. It has very similar flat penetration and superior angled penetration to the 3BM42 "Mango" round used by Soviet tanks and can penetrate most contemporary opponents through at least the lower front plate and gun breech.
  
−
The 125-I APFSDS round is a Tier 1 modification. Though it first appeared on the [[ZTZ96]], it is again an option for ZTZ99-III and eases the stock grind considerably. It has very similar flat penetration and superior angled penetration to the 3BM42 "Mango" round used by Soviet tanks and can penetrate most contemporary opponents through at least the lower front plate and gun breech.
+
Waiting as a tier 4 modification is the DTC10-125 APFSDS round, a high mass and high velocity shell with only slightly worse performance compared to 3BM60 on the [[T-80BVM]]. This will be the go-to round for the ZTZ99-II and most targets at the rank are unlikely to withstand a penetrating shot from this shell.
  
−
Waiting at Tier 4 is the DTW-125 APFSDS round. It is lethal and very similar in performance to the Leclerc's OFL 120 F1, having high flat and angled penetration along with a quick muzzle velocity. The performance is not sufficient to break through the turret cheeks of heavily armoured MBTs like the [[M1A2 Abrams]], [[Leopard 2A5]]/[[Leopard 2A6|2A6]], and [[Challenger 2]], but other MBTs may be vulnerable. It will comfortably penetrate any tank's hull armour and the higher mass compared to the 125-I round produces somewhat more spalling.
+
DTB12-125 is also available as a tier 4 modification; this is one of the few HE-VT shells available for a top-tier MBT. This shell turns ZTZ99-II into a 125 mm anti-aircraft gun thanks to its generous explosive filler, any aircraft that are within its 7 m trigger radius will not have a good day. Although it has lesser explosive content, the VT fuse is not triggered by ground vehicles so it can serve as an alternative to the stock HE-FS as well.
  
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
{{:ZPT98 (125 mm)/Ammunition|DTP-125, DTB-125, 125-I, DTC10-125, GP125, DTB12-125}}
−
! 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
 
−
|-
 
−
| DTP-125 || HEATFS || 480 || 480 || 480 || 480 || 480 || 480
 
−
|-
 
−
| DTB-125 || HE || 45 || 45 || 45 || 45 || 45 || 45
 
−
|-
 
−
| 125-I || APFSDS || 466 || 464 || 458 || 450 || 442 || 434
 
−
|-
 
−
| DTW-125 || APFSDS || 552 || 550 || 542 || 532 || 521 || 511
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
−
! colspan="10" | 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)
 
−
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
 
−
|-
 
−
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
 
−
|-
 
−
| DTP-125 || HEATFS || 905 || 18 || 0.05 || 0.1 || 2,190 || 65° || 72° || 77°
 
−
|-
 
−
| DTB-125 || HE || 850 || 23 || 0 || 0.1 || 5,460 || 79° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
| 125-I || APFSDS || 1,730 || 4.02 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 78° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
| DTW-125 || APFSDS || 1,740 || 4.83 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 78° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
!Full<br>ammo
+
! Full<br>ammo
−
!Ammo<br>part
+
! Ammo<br>part
−
!1st<br>rack empty
+
! 1st<br>rack empty
−
!2nd<br>rack empty
+
! 2nd<br>rack empty
−
!3rd<br>rack empty
+
! 3rd<br>rack empty
−
!4th<br>rack empty
+
! 4th<br>rack empty
−
!5th<br>rack empty
+
! 5th<br>rack empty
−
!6th<br>rack empty
+
! 6th<br>rack empty
−
!7th<br>rack empty
+
! 7th<br>rack empty
−
!Visual<br>discrepancy
+
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
|-
 
|-
 
| '''39''' || ''Projectiles<br>Propellants'' || 37 ''(+2)''<br>39 ''(+0)'' || 34 ''(+5)''<br>38 ''(+1)'' || 31 ''(+8)''<br>37 ''(+2)'' || 27 ''(+12)''<br>28 ''(+11)'' || 23 ''(+16)''<br>26 ''(+13)'' || N/A<br>23 ''(+16)'' || 1 ''(+38)''<br>1 ''(+38)'' || No
 
| '''39''' || ''Projectiles<br>Propellants'' || 37 ''(+2)''<br>39 ''(+0)'' || 34 ''(+5)''<br>38 ''(+1)'' || 31 ''(+8)''<br>37 ''(+2)'' || 27 ''(+12)''<br>28 ''(+11)'' || 23 ''(+16)''<br>26 ''(+13)'' || N/A<br>23 ''(+16)'' || 1 ''(+38)''<br>1 ''(+38)'' || No
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! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Pintle || 500 (150) || 700 || -5°/+60° || ±180°
+
| Pintle || 600 (150) || 600 || -6°/+85° || ±180°
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Coaxial || 2,500 (250) || 700 || N/A || N/A
+
| Coaxial || 2,500 (250) || 700 || - || -
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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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).'' The text within these arrows are not to be deleted -->
 
<!-- ''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).'' The text within these arrows are not to be deleted -->
−
Since there wasn't any firepower improvements between ZTZ99 Stage II and Stage III, the playstyle of ZTZ99-III is very similar to its predecessor.
+
Since there weren't any firepower improvements between ZTZ99 Stage II and Stage III, the playstyle of ZTZ99-III is very similar to its predecessor.
  
−
The ZTZ99's main weaknesses are poor mobility characteristics and inconsistent protection, so to mitigate these, it is best used as a sniper or midfielder. Carefully move up to positions that offer cover and a good view. Once in position, the ZTZ99's strengths can be put to good use. The laser warning system and high-quality thermal sights for the commander give the ZTZ99 a large degree of situational awareness, allowing enemies to be spotted and engaged quickly. Try to attack enemies from a distance and while they are in the open; in this situation they will have difficulty targeting the weak points of the ZTZ99 while the ZTZ99 typically only needs to shoot their hull when using the top DTW-125 APFSDS. Be aware of the slow reload, which is up to 50% slower than other top MBTs. If a target is still capable of returning fire after being hit (e.g. gunner, gun breech, turret drive are intact), it might be better to move to cover and wait for teammates to distract or attack them. Although it has a sufficient top speed, it is nowhere among the top-notch at top rank; especially in urban environment where it might struggles when changing position or flanking enemies. Move up when the coast is clear but do not overextend, it is difficult to back out from a bad position due to the bad reverse speed and in the meantime enemies can fire plenty of shots at the ZTZ99. 
+
The ZTZ99's main weaknesses are poor mobility characteristics and inconsistent protection, so to mitigate these, it is best used as a sniper or midfielder. Carefully move up to positions that offer cover and a good view. Once in position, the ZTZ99's strengths can be put to good use. The laser warning system and high-quality thermal sights for the commander give the ZTZ99 a large degree of situational awareness, allowing enemies to be spotted and engaged quickly. Try to attack enemies from a distance and while they are in the open, the variable 6x-11x gun sight will help in searching for targets at longer ranges; in this situation they will have difficulty targeting the weak points of the ZTZ99 while the ZTZ99 typically only needs to shoot their hull when using the top DTC10-125 APFSDS. The DTB12-125 HE-VT and GP125 tandem ATGM are also at your disposal in case of any incoming aircraft or more sturdy targets. Be aware of the slow reload, which is up to 50% slower than other top MBTs. If a target is still capable of returning fire after being hit (e.g. gunner, gun breech, turret drive are intact), it might be better to move to cover and wait for teammates to distract or attack them. Although the ZTZ99 has a sufficient top speed, it is not among the top-notch at top rank; it might struggle especially in urban environments when changing position or flanking enemies. Move up when the coast is clear but do not overextend, it is difficult to back out from a bad position due to the bad reverse speed.
−
 
 
−
Unlike top Soviet MBTs, the ZTZ99 does not have access to gun-launched ATGMs, making it more difficult to swat helicopters or low-flying aircraft from the sky. Stay within the coverage of friendly SPAA vehicles ([[ZPRK 2S6]] Tunguska, [[PGZ04A]], [[ADATS]], etc.) if possible, and if no support is available, use the smoke grenades and engine smoke system to hide.
 
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
Line 198: Line 189:
  
 
* Sturdy frontal armour on turret cheeks and upper glacis, can withstand most APFSDS shells
 
* Sturdy frontal armour on turret cheeks and upper glacis, can withstand most APFSDS shells
−
* The new welded turret eliminated the previously bulged weak spot on the turret and further enhanced its protection over [[ZTZ99-II]]
+
* The new welded turret eliminated the previously bulged weak spot on the turret and further enhanced its protection over [[ZTZ99-II]]
 
* Gunner and commander thermals with sufficient resolution are very useful to spot targets
 
* Gunner and commander thermals with sufficient resolution are very useful to spot targets
−
* Powerful 125 mm APFSDS, can frontally penetrate most MBTs' weak spots
+
* Variety of shells ranging from high-penetration darts, devastating HE(-VT) shells and gun-launched ATGM
 
* Silhouette is quite low, allowing it to conceal itself behind cover or vegetations
 
* Silhouette is quite low, allowing it to conceal itself behind cover or vegetations
 
* Has laser warning receiver which can inform the player that they are being targeted
 
* Has laser warning receiver which can inform the player that they are being targeted
Line 207: Line 198:
  
 
* Weak spots in the armour: driver's port, lower glacis, and gun mantlet. Can be penetrated by lower-ranked tanks
 
* Weak spots in the armour: driver's port, lower glacis, and gun mantlet. Can be penetrated by lower-ranked tanks
−
* Extremely slow reverse speed of -4 km/h won't get it out of danger quickly
+
* Extremely slow reverse speed of -5 km/h won't get it out of danger quickly
−
* Thin side armour, can be penetrated by IFVs (eg. Type 89) and aircraft
+
* Thin side armour, can be penetrated by IFVs (e.g. Type 89) and aircraft
 
* Frontal turret ERA are in large pieces, which will leave larger holes once destroyed
 
* Frontal turret ERA are in large pieces, which will leave larger holes once destroyed
−
* Fixed gunner sight 8x zoom is limiting for ranged shooting
 
  
 
== 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).'' -->
−
After the commission of [[ZTZ99-II]] (or ZTZ99 Mod. 2003, 99一期改, erroneously known as 99G), Factory 617 kept on revising the design and eliminated some of its design flaws, such as replacing the bulged cast turret with a brand new welded turret, as well as re-positioning the existing applique armour of turret front and lengthening the side ones; the UFP was also redesigned to fit FY-4 in a more reasonable positioning. It was then finalized in 2009 and in the 60th Anniversary of the Establishment of PRC, the new ZTZ99-III (or ZTZ99 Mod. 2009, 99二期改, erroneously known as 99A1) showed up as the leading column of vehicle phalanx (numbered 01-01 to 01-18 from 334th Regiment, 112th Mechanized Infantry Brigade, 38th Army Corps), serving as the new spearhead of PLAGF elite armoured brigades.
+
After the commission of [[ZTZ99-II]] (WZ123 or ZTZ99 Mod. 2003, 99一期改, ZTZ99 "二类定型状态" in game; erroneously known as 99G), Factory 617 kept on revising the design and eliminated some of its design flaws, such as replacing the bulged cast turret with a brand new welded turret, as well as re-positioning the existing applique armour of turret front and lengthening the side ones; the UFP was also redesigned to fit FY-4 in a more reasonable positioning. It was then finalized just a year later and in the 60th Anniversary of the Establishment of PRC in 2009, the new ZTZ99-III (WZ123B or ZTZ99 Mod. 2004, 99二期改, ZTZ99 "三类定型状态" in game; erroneously known as 99A1) showed up as the leading column of vehicle phalanx (numbered 01-01 to 01-18 from 334th Regiment, 112th Mechanized Infantry Brigade, 38th Army Corps), serving as the new spearhead of PLAGF elite armoured brigades.
  
−
Eventually, just a year later; a titular successor of ZTZ99-III - the completely redesigned ZTZ99A, passed state certification and in mid-2010s, it started to replace ZTZ99-III as the most advanced vehicle of PLAGF and served in elite armoured brigades in Northeastern China.
+
Eventually, just a year later; a titular successor of ZTZ99-III - the completely redesigned ZTZ99A (WZ1001; erroneously known as 99A2), passed state certification and in mid-2010s, it started to replace ZTZ99-III as the most advanced vehicle of PLAGF and served in elite armoured brigades in Northeastern China.
  
 
== 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_ztz_99_w Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|rjFVRzWnvh8|'''The Beast Becomes Balanced - ZT99-III''' - ''JustinPlaysYT''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 226: Line 222:
 
* ''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.'' -->
−
''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;''
+
; Other vehicles of similar configuration and role
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
 
 +
* [[T-72B3]]
 +
* [[T-80U]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
Line 235: Line 232:
 
* ''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/7284-development-new-top-tier-ztz99-iii-and-pre-order-for-a-5c-en|[Devblog] New top-tier ZTZ99-III and pre-order for A-5C]]
−
* ''other literature.''
 
  
 +
{{TankManufacturer Norinco}}
 
{{China medium tanks}}
 
{{China medium tanks}}
 +
[[Category:ATGM vehicles]]

Latest revision as of 11:50, 26 December 2023

Rank VI USSR | Premium | Golden Eagles
Su-25K Pack
This page is about the Chinese MBT ZTZ99-III. For other versions, see ZTZ99 (Family).
ZTZ99-III
cn_ztz_99_w.png
GarageImage ZTZ99-III.jpg
ZTZ99-III
China flag.png China
VII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
11.0 11.0 11.0
Class:
Research:175 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:950 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The ZhuangJia Tanke ZhuZhan 99 Stage III (ZTZ99式主战坦克 III类定型状态; lit. Third Type Certified Design; industrial code WZ123B) is the finalized 2004 design of the WZ123 project, with slight alterations to both the turret and hull (extended rear turret basket and ERA coverage, and revised welded turret and ERA block placements). This design soon became the standardized revision of ZTZ99 and was first shown in military training images by 2006. First officially publicized during an exhibition at the Military Museum of the Chinese People's Revolution (中国人民革命军事博物馆) and being the leading vehicle phalanx of the 60th National Day Parade in 2009, the ZTZ99 is still in service with its LRIP version (ZTZ99-II) and its successor (ZTZ99A), mostly in northern China and Tibetan Plateau where there are extensive plains for tank assaults and defense.

Introduced in Update "Direct Hit", ZTZ99-III is an overhaul upgrade of the older ZTZ99-II. While retaining the same firepower, mobility, and frontal armor, the ZTZ99-III has eliminated some design flaws present in the previous version. Although it may not be the most advanced MBT available, the ZTZ99-III is a reliable addition to the top-tier lineup of the Chinese tech tree and an important upgrade for its predecessor.

General info

Survivability and armour

ERA
Effective action against the cumulative ammunition
Composite armour
Balanced protection against all types of ammunition
Smoke grenades
Creation of a smoke screen in front of the vehicle
ESS
Creation of a smoke screen in the direction of movement of the vehicle
LWS
Notifies about the vehicle's exposure to laser emissions
Armourfront / side / back
Hull80 / 50 / 45
Turret220 / 45 / 35
Crew3 people
Visibility75 %

The major difference between the ZTZ99-II and III is the placement of ERA blocks up the front and side of the turret, where a wave board is presented on Stage III's UFP to deflect water waves in case for river crossing operations; the turret is also redesigned into a welded one, eliminating the bulged part of the turret and thus increasing the survivability of the turret crew. But unfortunately, some flaws still existed in Stage III.

Like the T-80U, the ZTZ99-III continues to use both composite armour and advanced ERA with kinetic protection. Composite armour is present on the turret cheeks and on the upper glacis; it is unremarkable by itself, but the areas with full coverage of both composite armour and FY-4 ERA are even capable of resisting the Leopard 2A6's DM53 APFSDS. Unfortunately, these areas are limited to the turret cheeks and lower portion of the upper glacis. Interestingly, the ERA is resistant to tandem-charge warheads, which allows it to withstand ATGMs that other ERA equipped vehicles can't.

There are plenty of weak spots on the hull. First, the lower glacis has no composite armour or ERA whatsoever and can be penetrated by practically anything, and it also is proportionally larger than on Soviet MBTs. Penetrating shots there have a large chance of detonating the ammo in the autoloader and destroying the tank. The upper glacis composite armour is modeled with a large cutout for the driver's optics, as on the Soviet T-64/72 series, and even the FY-4 ERA there is not enough to save it from powerful APFSDS. Some small portions of the upper glacis are not covered by ERA either.

The turret has its fair share of weak spots as well. The gun mantlet area has no composite armour and penetrating shots will usually take out the gun breech and possibly a crew member. There is a cutout in the ERA array on the left cheek to allow the driver to enter and exit the tank that reduces the protection there. Thanks for the redesign of the new turret, the ZTZ99-III eliminated the bulged, cast part of the turret and thus increasing the survivability of the turret crew; it might still be penetrated by some shells but those are in rare cases.

The ZTZ99-III does not have any ERA on the hull sides and the base hull side armour of 50 mm is thinner than Soviet MBTs, so be careful of IFVs with autocannons. Successful hits to the side will usually total the tank, either detonating the ammo racks or knocking out the turret crew.

The ZTZ99-III's armour protection has enough gaps that it can be considered "trolly" as opposed to "well-protected", but the areas that are well-protected are very strong. It's best to stay at long range and utilize the ZTZ99-III's low profile in conjunction with cover to make it difficult for enemies to hit the weak spots. Putting some bushes near the driver's hatch or gun mantlet might help. Remember that ERA is destroyed upon absorbing fire and the composite armour alone does not have sufficient protection for a top-tier vehicle.

As a last note, the GL-7 laser dazzler is physically modeled on the left side of the turret roof as a laser rangefinder, but its countermeasuring capabilities are not implemented.

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour (hull, turret cheeks, turret roof, cupolas)
  • Cast homogeneous armour (turret, gun mantlet, driver hatch)
  • Rubber-fabric screens (side skirts)
  • Structural steel (slat armour)
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 20 mm (70°) Upper front
80 mm (60°) Lower front 		80 mm Top
20 mm (21°) Bottom 		45 mm (10°) Upper plate
45 mm (45°) Lower glacis
20 mm Engine vent 		30 mm Driving compartment
20 mm Engine compartment
5 mm Engine vents
Turret 220 mm Turret front
310 mm Gun mantlet 		80 mm (volumetric) 35 mm 30-50 mm
Cupola 45 mm (cylindrical) 35 mm
Composite armour Frontal effective protection
Hull Upper glacis (ERA counted):
600-700 mm Kinetic / 1,050-1,300 mm Chemical
Turret Turret front (ERA counted):
550-750 mm Kinetic / 1,000-1,300 mm Chemical
Gun mantlet:
30-400 mm Kinetic / 60-400 mm Chemical
FY-4 Explosive reactive armour Front (Slope angle) Sides
Hull Upper glacis:
180 mm Kinetic/ 550 mm Chemical 		N/A
Turret Turret front:
180 mm Kinetic/ 550 mm Chemical 		Rear side:
50 mm Kinetic / 350 mm Chemical

Notes:

  • Suspension wheels, tracks, and torsion bars are 20 mm thick.
  • Side skirts are 8 mm thick, and slat armour on the turret sides and rear is 10 mm thick.
  • A log placed at the rear of the hull is 100 mm thick.
  • A 5 mm thick internal RHA screen separates the engine compartment from the crew compartment.

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB73 / 6 km/h
RB and SB65 / 5 km/h
Number of gears7 forward
1 back
Weight51.0 t
Engine power
AB2 290 hp
RB and SB1 200 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB44.9 hp/t
RB and SB23.5 hp/t

The ZTZ99-III's mobility is still below average for a top rank vehicle. Although it has a sizeable 1,200 horsepower NORINCO Shaanxi Diesel 12V150HB diesel engine, which is comparable to the T-80U's 1,250 hp gas turbine engine and among the most powerful Eastern Blog diesel engines. The tank itself also weighs more than 50 tons, which approaches the weight of the Leopard 2A4 and M1 Abrams. Among contemporaries, the power-to-weight ratio is better than the Challenger 2 and comparable to the Ariete PSO or T-72B3. Though it is quite fast in a straight line, it does need a considerably long time to pick up speed especially when stock or across rough terrain. It also does not have neutral steering due to the design of transmission, and the reverse speed of -5 km/h is truly abysmal. The ZTZ99-III can get into battle reasonably quickly but does not excel at flanking and will struggle to retreat from sticky situations.

Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 73 6 51 1860 2,290 36.47 44.9
Realistic 65 5 1061 1,200 20.8 23.53

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB4 302 → 6 792 Sl icon.png
RB4 229 → 6 677 Sl icon.png
SB4 958 → 7 828 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications278 400 Rp icon.png
461 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost3 000 Ge icon.png
Crew training270 000 Sl icon.png
Experts950 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 200 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 210 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
150 / 200 / 240 % Sl icon.png
244 / 244 / 244 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
4 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
3 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement cn.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods thermal sight.png
NVD
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods engine smoke screen system.png
ESS
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
125mm_china_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods counterMeasures.png
LWS/LR
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
125mm_china_ATGM_ammo_pack
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
125mm_china_DTW_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
125mm_china_HE_VT_ammo_pack
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Laser rangefinder
Reduces the error and increases the maximum measurable distance of the rangefinder
Night vision device
Improves visibility by enhancing natural light or active illumination.
Thermal imager
Allows to see thermal radiation in the infrared range day and night

Main armament

125 mm ZPT98 cannon
Two-plane stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in two planes while moving
Autoloader
Automatically feeds projectiles into the breech. The speed does not depend on the skills of the loader
Ammunition39 rounds
First-order22 rounds
Reload7.1 s
Vertical guidance-6° / 14°
Main article: ZPT98 (125 mm)

The ZPT98 cannon is a 125 mm smoothbore cannon with an autoloader, much like the 2A46 cannon used by the T-72 or the Type 88C cannon used by the ZTZ96, but it is 50 calibres long instead of 48. The reload speed of 7.1 seconds is the slowest of any top-rank vehicle, so destroying or crippling enemies in one shot is important. The gun handling is the same as the ZTZ96 series, being slightly better than most Soviet MBTs barring the T-72B3 but still lower than most Western MBTs.

125 mm ZPT98 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Autoloader
Arcade 39 -5°/+13° ±180° Two-plane 28.6 39.5 48.0 53.1 56.5 7.10
Realistic 17.9 21.0 25.5 28.2 30.0

Ammunition

Since the ZTZ99-III is an upgraded ZTZ99-II with some redesigned appearance but not in terms of firepower, both share the same ammunition.

The stock DTP-125 HEATFS round has the typical penetration of 480 mm shared by Western MBTs with 120 mm guns, but this is not enough to deal with tanks with composite armour, which are the norm at the ZTZ99's battle rating. The post-penetration damage is also disappointing. Only use it as an interim shell before APFSDS is unlocked. With 2.19 kg of explosive mass, it is sometimes capable of knocking out light targets like SPAAs and light tanks with overpressure damage, so keep an eye out for those.

The stock DTB-125 HE shell is one of the strongest of any top-rank MBT. It can actually cause more damage to MBTs than the HEATFS round if fired at turret rings, hull roofs, and turret cupolas, especially with overpressure damage. Well-placed impacts have a good chance of transmitting the shockwave into the crew compartment and knocking the target out instantly, even against the toughest MBTs like the Leopard 2A6. It helps to keep a few HE rounds around even after APFSDS is unlocked as they excel at causing pressure damage to light targets.

The ZTZ99-III also has access to the GP125 tandem ATGM, which performs identically to its Soviet counterpart. If players find their darts are not effective against well-armoured targets, the sufficient velocity and penetration can ruin the day of such vehicles, as well as helicopters if they don't evade the incoming missile.

The 125-I APFSDS round is a Tier 1 modification. Though it first appeared on the ZTZ96, it is still a decent option for the ZTZ99 and eases the stock grind considerably. It has very similar flat penetration and superior angled penetration to the 3BM42 "Mango" round used by Soviet tanks and can penetrate most contemporary opponents through at least the lower front plate and gun breech.

Waiting as a tier 4 modification is the DTC10-125 APFSDS round, a high mass and high velocity shell with only slightly worse performance compared to 3BM60 on the T-80BVM. This will be the go-to round for the ZTZ99-II and most targets at the rank are unlikely to withstand a penetrating shot from this shell.

DTB12-125 is also available as a tier 4 modification; this is one of the few HE-VT shells available for a top-tier MBT. This shell turns ZTZ99-II into a 125 mm anti-aircraft gun thanks to its generous explosive filler, any aircraft that are within its 7 m trigger radius will not have a good day. Although it has lesser explosive content, the VT fuse is not triggered by ground vehicles so it can serve as an alternative to the stock HE-FS as well.

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
DTP-125 HEATFS 480 480 480 480 480 480
DTB-125 HE 45 45 45 45 45 45
125-I APFSDS 466 464 458 450 442 434
DTC10-125 APFSDS 577 575 566 555 544 533
GP125 ATGM (tandem) 850 850 850 850 850 850
DTB12-125 HE-VT* 43 43 43 43 43 43
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (kg) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
DTP-125 HEATFS 905 18 0.05 0.1 2.62 65° 72° 77°
DTB-125 HE 850 23 0.3 0.1 5.46 79° 80° 81°
125-I APFSDS 1,730 4.02 - - - 78° 80° 81°
DTC10-125 APFSDS 1,770 4.85 - - - 78° 80° 81°
Missile details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Range
(m) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (kg) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
GP125 ATGM (tandem) 445 5,000 17.2 0.4 0.01 5.72 80° 82° 90°
Proximity-fused shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Arming
distance (m) 		Trigger
radius (m) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (kg) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
DTB12-125 HE-VT* 850 23.2 0.3 0.1 500 7 5.3 79° 80° 81°

Ammo racks

Full
ammo 		Ammo
part 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		5th
rack empty 		6th
rack empty 		7th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
39 Projectiles
Propellants 		37 (+2)
39 (+0) 		34 (+5)
38 (+1) 		31 (+8)
37 (+2) 		27 (+12)
28 (+11) 		23 (+16)
26 (+13) 		N/A
23 (+16) 		1 (+38)
1 (+38) 		No

Machine guns

12.7 mm QJC88A machine gun
Ammunition600 rounds
Belt capacity150 rounds
Reload5.0 s
Fire rate600 shots/min
Vertical guidance-6° / 85°
7.62 mm Type 86 machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition2 500 rounds
Belt capacity250 rounds
Reload8.0 s
Fire rate700 shots/min
Main articles: QJC88A (12.7 mm), Type 86 (7.62 mm)

Same as the ZTZ99-II, Stage III has both a turret HMG and coaxial LMG; the HMG can be used in case of any potential low-flyers and helicopters which are too close to your proximity, it can do short work of them, this also applies to any poorly armoured light vehicles in higher ranks as these ceramic core shots can shatter them with relative ease.

While the coaxial gun is only good for range-finding and disturbing enemies, it can also do short work of any exposed crew or sometimes even surprise kill on helicopters.

12.7 mm QJC88A
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Pintle 600 (150) 600 -6°/+85° ±180°
7.62 mm Type 86
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 2,500 (250) 700 - -

Usage in battles

Since there weren't any firepower improvements between ZTZ99 Stage II and Stage III, the playstyle of ZTZ99-III is very similar to its predecessor.

The ZTZ99's main weaknesses are poor mobility characteristics and inconsistent protection, so to mitigate these, it is best used as a sniper or midfielder. Carefully move up to positions that offer cover and a good view. Once in position, the ZTZ99's strengths can be put to good use. The laser warning system and high-quality thermal sights for the commander give the ZTZ99 a large degree of situational awareness, allowing enemies to be spotted and engaged quickly. Try to attack enemies from a distance and while they are in the open, the variable 6x-11x gun sight will help in searching for targets at longer ranges; in this situation they will have difficulty targeting the weak points of the ZTZ99 while the ZTZ99 typically only needs to shoot their hull when using the top DTC10-125 APFSDS. The DTB12-125 HE-VT and GP125 tandem ATGM are also at your disposal in case of any incoming aircraft or more sturdy targets. Be aware of the slow reload, which is up to 50% slower than other top MBTs. If a target is still capable of returning fire after being hit (e.g. gunner, gun breech, turret drive are intact), it might be better to move to cover and wait for teammates to distract or attack them. Although the ZTZ99 has a sufficient top speed, it is not among the top-notch at top rank; it might struggle especially in urban environments when changing position or flanking enemies. Move up when the coast is clear but do not overextend, it is difficult to back out from a bad position due to the bad reverse speed.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Sturdy frontal armour on turret cheeks and upper glacis, can withstand most APFSDS shells
  • The new welded turret eliminated the previously bulged weak spot on the turret and further enhanced its protection over ZTZ99-II
  • Gunner and commander thermals with sufficient resolution are very useful to spot targets
  • Variety of shells ranging from high-penetration darts, devastating HE(-VT) shells and gun-launched ATGM
  • Silhouette is quite low, allowing it to conceal itself behind cover or vegetations
  • Has laser warning receiver which can inform the player that they are being targeted

Cons:

  • Weak spots in the armour: driver's port, lower glacis, and gun mantlet. Can be penetrated by lower-ranked tanks
  • Extremely slow reverse speed of -5 km/h won't get it out of danger quickly
  • Thin side armour, can be penetrated by IFVs (e.g. Type 89) and aircraft
  • Frontal turret ERA are in large pieces, which will leave larger holes once destroyed

History

After the commission of ZTZ99-II (WZ123 or ZTZ99 Mod. 2003, 99一期改, ZTZ99 "二类定型状态" in game; erroneously known as 99G), Factory 617 kept on revising the design and eliminated some of its design flaws, such as replacing the bulged cast turret with a brand new welded turret, as well as re-positioning the existing applique armour of turret front and lengthening the side ones; the UFP was also redesigned to fit FY-4 in a more reasonable positioning. It was then finalized just a year later and in the 60th Anniversary of the Establishment of PRC in 2009, the new ZTZ99-III (WZ123B or ZTZ99 Mod. 2004, 99二期改, ZTZ99 "三类定型状态" in game; erroneously known as 99A1) showed up as the leading column of vehicle phalanx (numbered 01-01 to 01-18 from 334th Regiment, 112th Mechanized Infantry Brigade, 38th Army Corps), serving as the new spearhead of PLAGF elite armoured brigades.

Eventually, just a year later; a titular successor of ZTZ99-III - the completely redesigned ZTZ99A (WZ1001; erroneously known as 99A2), passed state certification and in mid-2010s, it started to replace ZTZ99-III as the most advanced vehicle of PLAGF and served in elite armoured brigades in Northeastern China.

Media

Skins
Videos
The Beast Becomes Balanced - ZT99-III - JustinPlaysYT

See also

Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

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 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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