Difference between revisions of "ZTZ88A"

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{{About
 +
| about = Chinese medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
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| usage = the other version
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| link = ZTZ88B
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}}
 
{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=cn_ztz_88a
 
|code=cn_ztz_88a
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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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Chinese medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Wind of Change"]].
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (88A式主战坦克, coded WZ122G) is the 2nd revision of the ZTZ88 MBT in late-1990s; by the time of Mainland China's economic reform and military modernization, PLAGF has dire need for a new MBT before the future [[ZTZ99 (Family)|ZTZ99]] series (Project 784) made into commission. To replace the fleet of ZTZ59 derivatives and utilize the imported 105 mm cannon production line, the Fifth Ministry of Machine Building reused the design of WZ1225 during the Project 122 development from 1970s and built the first Chinese MBT known as the ZTZ80; after around a decade of further development on FCS and better powerplant thanks to the BK122 (Type 85) series, these equipment were soon installed onto the ZTZ80 platform and renamed as the ZTZ88. The A variant replaced the original ZPL83 with a new, longer ZPL94 105 mm cannon and experimented with an applique composite armor pack as the evaluation for future PLAGF composite armor; although deemed obsolete by its introduction by late-1990s with ZTZ99 and ZTZ96 ready for commission, some 700 tanks were built alongside with its base model, ZTZ88B and been seen as late as the 2020s Sino-Indo LAC confrontation.
 +
 
 +
Introduced in [[Update "Wind of Change"]] as a threshold between the ZTZ59/69 series and future ZTZ96 series, ZTZ88A introduced a better FCS, a long barrel 105 mm cannon, as well as new powerplant which would inherit to the future ZTZ96 series; with the experimental applique composite armor and improved mobility over any T-54 family, although it lacks the flexibility of NATO MBTs or the kinetic protection of Soviet MBTs, the tank will come as a lead-in training vehicle for future PLAGF MBTs.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
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{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
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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.''
+
At first glance, the ZTZ88A still resembles a T-54 or its Chinese domestic counterpart, ZTZ59, but with a closer look at its hull, players will find that it is a new design. The UFP is more angled than the T-54's (67° vs 60°), so the base protection is slightly better than that of the T-54/T-62. Furthermore, thanks to the advancement in composite armour in China, it is also the first Chinese vehicle to be equipped with composite armour as an applique on UFP. Compared to similar hull armour seen on the Soviet [[T-55AM-1]] and [[T-62M-1]], the ZTZ88A has less chemical protection (around 380-420 mm) and 105 mm HEATFS may sometimes be able to damage the driver and fuel tanks towards the lower portion of the UFP. Angling the hull slightly can help mitigate this. Surprisingly, it has better kinetic protection than its Soviet contemporaries: the UFP can resist APFSDS rounds with less than around 180 mm of 60° penetration, so some US and Soviet offerings like 100 mm 3BM25, 105 mm M735, and even 125 mm 3BM15 are blocked. Unfortunately the ubiquitous 105 mm DM23/M111 round used by the [[Leopard A1A1]] for example will penetrate with few issues, but still, the ZTZ88A has one of the most protected hulls at its tier.
 +
 
 +
The side armour was reduced to 60 mm, so do be aware of any vehicles with autocannons - at the tier, most autocannons have APDS or APFSDS at their disposal. The side skirts can help somewhat at angles.
  
−
'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
+
The turret, on the other hand, is poorly protected comparing to the hull. It is very similar to previous Soviet/Chinese dome-shaped turret designs with only slightly greater thickness. Unlike the [[ZTZ59D1]] and [[T-69 II G]], the ZTZ88A's turret does not have any ERA coverage, leaving it extremely vulnerable to stock HEATFS rounds as well as ATGMs, which are all commonly found at this tier. Thus the uncovered steel armour cannot provide much protection, if any, against ammunitions like APFSDS or HEATFS. Tanks that mainly use chemical rounds are especially more threatening, such as [[M551]] and [[BMP-1 (Family)|BMP-1]].
−
<!-- Example: * Rolled homogeneous armour (Front, Side, Rear, Hull roof)
+
 
−
* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret, Transmission area) -->
+
Like the previous Soviet/Chinese designs, the crew of 4 tankers is packed in a slightly bigger but still confined space. Although the ammo rack is protected by fuel tanks, the abundance of APFSDS or HEAT at the tier isn't really concerned about these improvements. Be very careful when moving on the battlefield, a penetrating shot will very likely result in a knockout of the crew or ammunition detonation.
 +
 
 +
'''Armour type:'''
 +
 
 +
* Rolled homogeneous armour (Hull)
 +
* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret)
  
 
{| 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 || 100 + 20 mm (67°) ''Upper''<br>80 mm (52°) ''Lower''
 +
| 60 mm ''Top'' <br>50 mm ''Bottom'' || 45 mm (3°)  || 30 mm (89°)
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Turret || ___ - ___ mm ''Turret front'' <br> ___ mm ''Gun mantlet'' || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm
+
| Turret || 200-300 mm ''Turret front'' (Volumetric)<br> 70-400 mm ''Gun mantlet'' (Volumetric) || 165-250 mm (Volumetric) || 60-100 mm (Volumetric) || 30 mm (87°)
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Cupola || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm
+
| Cupola || colspan="3" | 80 mm (cylindrical) ||30 mm
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
'''Notes:''' <!-- Any additional notes which the user needs to be aware of -->
+
{| class="wikitable"
−
<!-- Example: * Suspension wheels are 20 mm thick, tracks are 30 mm thick, and torsion bars are 60 mm thick. -->
+
|-
 +
! Composite armour !! Frontal effective protection !! Sides
 +
|-
 +
| Hull || '''Upper glacis:'''<br> 280 mm ''Kinetic'' / 380 mm ''Chemical'' || N/A
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
'''Notes:'''
 +
 
 +
* Tracks and suspension wheels are 20 mm thick
  
 
=== 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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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 forwards and backwards.''
+
Thanks to improvements during the early 1980s, the ZTZ88A is equipped with a NORINCO 12150ZL engine with 730 hp, the same as the succeeding [[ZTZ96]], and the chassis has a new suspension offering a smoother ride. The 10% increase in weight compared to the [[ZTZ59D1]] is more than compensated by the 40% increase in engine power. This gives the ZTZ88A a vast improvement in power-weight ratio to about 19.0 hp/ton and thus better a top speed at 57 km/h compared to its predecessors. Although it is not quite as fast as NATO counterparts at similar tier, it is certainly a very welcome improvement. For comparison, the [[Leopard A1A1]] has about 19.6 hp/ton, the [[T-62M-1]] has about 16.4 hp/ton, and the [[M60A1 RISE (P)]] only has 14.1 hp/ton. Thanks to the improved horsepower, the ZTZ88A has a considerably faster hull traverse comparing to older tanks like the ZTZ59D1, which is helpful to angle the hull quickly or to wiggle through tight spaces.
  
−
{{tankMobility}}
+
The reverse speed however is slightly better at a -9 km/h, it might sound nowhere fast enough like its more agile foes (e.g. [[Leopard 1 (Family)|Leopard 1]], [[AMX-30 (Family)|AMX-30]], etc.), but it's at least some improvement over the T-54 family. This can be quite risky, meaning that the player must think carefully before peeking out of a cover/hill.
 +
 
 +
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1131|rbMinHp=646}}
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
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{{main|ZPL94 (105 mm)}}
 
{{main|ZPL94 (105 mm)}}
  
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''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.''
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The introduction of the Royal Ordnance 105 mm L7 cannon marked the transformation of PLAGF from Warsaw Pact armaments to Western ones. The ZPL94 mounted on the ZTZ88A has one of the longest barrels in the L7 family, giving it a higher muzzle velocity over its Western counterparts. While ZTZ88A still doesn't reload quite as quickly as NATO tanks, the gap is significantly smaller.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
−
| rowspan="2" | 45 || rowspan="2" | -4°/+18° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__
+
| rowspan="2" | 45 || rowspan="2" | -4°/+18° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 19.0 || 26.4 || 32.0 || 35.4 || 37.6 || rowspan="2" | 9.75 || rowspan="2" | 8.63 || rowspan="2" | 7.95 || rowspan="2" | 7.50
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
−
| __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._
+
| 11.9 || 14.0 || 17.0 || 18.8 || 20.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
{{:ZPL94 (105 mm)/Ammunition|Type-83 HEAT, DTB-1, Type-83 HESH, BTM1, Type-83 APDS}}
−
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
+
 
−
|-
+
The ZTZ88A offers a range of shells at the player's disposal, and players who already own the [[T-69 II G]] will be very familiar with them as both tanks share the same shells.
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
+
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
+
The first option that comes stock is the Type 83 HEAT having identical performance to NATO's DM13 HEAT. At its tier, it is still sufficient to penetrate most tanks without ERA or composite armour and its explosive mass is enough to knock out lighter vehicles with overpressure on occasion. Some opponents to watch out for include the [[Sho't Kal Dalet (Great Britain)|Sho't Kal Dalet]], [[T-55AM-1]]/[[T-62M-1]], and [[M60A1 RISE (P)]].
−
! colspan="6" | Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
+
 
−
|-
+
The DTB-1 is very different from most HE shells at its tier - it is a VT shell, meaning that the shell detonates when it is close to other vehicles, including aircraft; this is a trait that the ZTZ88A's NATO counterparts don't have. It has 1.66 kg of explosive mass, which can sometimes knock out lighter vehicles like SPAAs, but its real utility lies in its anti-air potential. It is suggested to use to target aircraft or helicopters which happen to be within your elevation angle - a hit from DTB-1 is very lethal to aircraft.
−
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
+
 
−
|-
+
The Type 83 HESH is another story. It is a common HESH found on NATO vehicles - a solid hit on vehicles can trigger a lethal post-penetration effect, but the results of HESH is mixed. It generates a wide cone of shrapnel but the effects tend to be rather shallow or inconsistent. It is still possible to snipe stationary vehicles hiding behind cover with Type 83 HESH in some cases so bring some if desired - the laser rangefinder will certainly help with this.
−
| Type-83 HEAT || HEATFS || __ || __ || __ || __ || __ || __
+
 
−
|-
+
The BTM1 SAP shell is an interesting option returning from the [[ZTZ59D1]]. It can't be said to have high penetration by Rank VI standards (and doesn't benefit from the ZPL94 cannon's increased muzzle velocity), but its instant-knockout ability can be entertaining for attacks of opportunity, especially when using the ZTZ88A's good mobility and gun handling compared to previous Chinese tanks.
−
| DTB-1 || HE-VT* || __ || __ || __ || __ || __ || __
+
 
−
|-
+
The last round available is Type 83 APDS, which is actually an APFSDS round. Thanks to the longer barrel of the ZPL94, the overall penetration is slightly higher than M111/DM23 APFSDS at 351 mm point-blank; this is the go-to shell for the ZTZ88A. It might not have the highest penetration at its tier, especially compared to the [[PTL02]] and [[PTZ89]], but it can still hit enemies hard. There are a few opponents to watch out for in uptiers: the British [[Chieftain Mk 10]] and [[Challenger Mk.2]]/[[Challenger Mk.3|Mk.3]] have tough turrets, and the Soviet [[T-72A]] (when spaded), [[T-72AV (TURMS-T)]], [[T-64B]], and [[T-72B]] have tough turret and UFP armour that the ZTZ88A cannot penetrate without aiming for weak spots.
−
| Type-83 HESH || HESH || __ || __ || __ || __ || __ || __
 
−
|-
 
−
| Type-83 APDS || APFSDS || __ || __ || __ || __ || __ || __
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| 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%
 
−
|-
 
−
| Type-83 HEAT || HEATFS || ___ || _.__ || __ || _._ || ___ || __° || __° || __°
 
−
|-
 
−
| DTB-1 || HE-VT* || ___ || _.__ || __ || _._ || ___ || __° || __° || __°
 
−
|-
 
−
| Type-83 HESH || HESH || ___ || _.__ || __ || _._ || ___ || __° || __° || __°
 
−
|-
 
−
| Type-83 APDS || APFSDS || ___ || _.__ || __ || _._ || ___ || __° || __° || __°
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
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! 2nd<br>rack empty
 
! 2nd<br>rack empty
 
! 3rd<br>rack empty
 
! 3rd<br>rack empty
−
! 4th<br>rack empty
 
−
! 5th<br>rack empty
 
−
! 6th<br>rack empty
 
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''45''' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __
+
| '''45''' || 40&nbsp;''(+5)'' || 23&nbsp;''(+22)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+44)'' || No
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
 +
Although there are 23 shells in the ready rack, only 19 of them are protected by the fuel tanks, not the 4 shells on the left side; so it is suggested to bring only 20 shells into battle (19 in the rack + 1 preloaded in the breech).
  
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
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{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
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{{main|DShK (12.7 mm)|SGMT (7.62 mm)}}
+
{{main|Type 54 (12.7 mm)|Type 59 (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.''
+
The ZTZ88A still uses the same machine guns from the obsolete T-54s despite its introduction date in the early 1990s. The Type 54 (DShK) is still sufficient to gun down strafing aircraft/helicopters or lighter vehicles but suffers from a small 50 round belt capacity, while the Type 59 (SGMT) is only good for harassing enemies or sometimes targeting exposed crews.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | [[DShK (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm DShK]]
+
! colspan="5" | [[Type 54 (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm Type 54]]
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
|-
 
|-
−
| || ___ (___) || ___ || __° || __°
+
| Pintle || 500 (50) || 600 || -4°/+82° || ±180°
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | [[SGMT (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm SGMT]]
+
! colspan="5" | [[Type 59 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm Type 59]]
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
|-
 
|-
−
| || ___ (___) || ___ || __° || __°
+
| Coaxial || 2,500 (250) || 600 || - || -
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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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).'' -->
 
<!-- ''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).''
+
For Soviet or Chinese players, the ZTZ88A would feel like a faster [[T-55A]] or [[ZTZ59D1]], which is indeed true thanks to its 730 hp engine, giving it higher mobility over them. It might not be the fastest tank at its tier, but the ZTZ88A can still follow the main forces with its speed. For those who are playing against the ZTZ88A, the tank looks very similar to T-55s but they may be surprised when they don't penetrate its UFP thanks to the applique armour. As discussed, it might not stop all contemporary APFSDS or HEATFS, but it certainly helps stop earlier shells and it can still surprise common tanks like the [[XM-1 (GM)]] that lack good angled penetration. The turret is another story however - although it is slightly thicker than the T-55s, it will not stop any well-placed shots at its tier. Overall, the ZTZ88A's additional hull armor reduces the likelihood of being destroyed in one shot, but it should not be considered a consistently well-protected tank for advancing straight into enemy fire or peeking out of a hull-down position.
 +
 
 +
The firepower of the ZTZ88A is certainly sufficient thanks to the longer barrel ZPL94 gun with a variety of shells, faster reload, and improved gun handling over previous PRC tanks; but like many Eastern Bloc/Chinese tanks, it doesn't quite have the reaction time of NATO counterparts and the gunsight is fixed at 8x magnification, so sniping with this gun may be a problem. It also lacks thermal sights from the gunner. Thus, good situational awareness is required.
 +
 
 +
The ZTZ88A is the earliest non-premium Chinese vehicle with access to the DTB-1 HE-VT round. Players who do not own the [[T-69 II G]] or [[WMA301]] may find it a nifty surprise, but there are some limitations to be aware of. It has a considerable explosive content for an anti-air shell but the muzzle velocity of 825 m/s is rather slow by Rank VI standards and it takes 500 m of travel distance to arm. The ZTZ88A also does not have very good vertical elevation angles. With these factors in mind, DTB-1 is best used against helicopters, particularly those that are hovering or moving in straight lines and not paying attention. The laser rangefinder helps immensely for vertical aim adjustment but it is up to the user to provide the proper lead against moving targets.
 +
 
 +
Overall, the ZTZ88A provides a more mobile and higher firepower alternative for the PLAGF compared to NATO or Soviet counterparts but still has some flaws. It is best used in a more aggressive midfielding role where its significantly better speed compared to the [[ZTZ59D1]], [[M60A3 TTS (China)|M60A3 TTS]], and [[PTZ89]] can be used to rush to objective points and overwatch positions, and its heavier armour and lower profile compared to the [[PTL02]] or [[WMA301]] allows it to survive attacks from IFVs, aircraft, and artillery more easily. DTB-1 gives it some ability to counter early-game helicopter rushes or ATGM helicopters later on. Assess the battlefield to determine if better sniping capabilities, bigger guns, or greater speed are needed on the next spawn. But as one of the most flexible options available in the Chinese lineup at this BR, there is rarely a poor time to bring out the ZTZ88A.
  
 
=== 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".'' -->
−
''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:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* Satisfactory frontal arc protection for its tier, UFP can stop some APFSDS
 +
* Long barrel L7 with a variety of shells at its disposal
 +
* Improved reload and gun handling compared to the [[ZTZ59D1]]
 +
* HE-VT shell offers basic anti-air capabilities, especially against helicopters
 +
* Improved engine with a higher output than its predecessors, leading to better agility than [[ZTZ59D1]] and [[T-69 II G]]
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* Tightly packed crew and components
 +
* Poor gun depression and fixed zoom gunsight
 +
* Only has composite armour on the UFP, turret is completely unprotected
 +
* No thermal sights, disadvantaged against thermal-equipped tanks like [[Type 74 (G)|Type 74G]]
 +
* No ERA, turret is especially vulnerable to missiles and HEAT shells
 +
* Slow reverse speed can be fatal in some scenarios
  
 
== 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).'' -->
 
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''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).''
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After the Damansky/Zhenbao Island (珍宝岛) incident where the PLAGF [[T-62 545 (China)|captured a T-62]] from the Soviet border guards, they soon realized that the existing [[ZTZ59 (Family)|ZTZ59s]] and later WZ121 ([[ZTZ69 (Family)|ZTZ69]]) were nowhere near comparable with the masses of the latest Soviet MBTs. The Commission for Science, Technology and Industry for National Defense (国防科学技术委员会, COSTIND) and Fifth Ministry of Machine Building (第五机械工业部;五机部) accelerated their project coded "Project 2-4" (二四会战; established on 1970/2/4) for a new MBT which would be known as Project 122 (122工程). The project was dropped a few years later after revisions on the development route but this trained new batches of tank designers and engineers for future projects.
 +
 
 +
Meanwhile, one of the "fail-safe" versions of the designs in Project 122, WZ1225 with the newly-imported 105 mm gun and improved engine, designed by Fang Weixian (方慰先, designer of later ZTZ85, 88, and 96) passed state evaluation and inherited the industrial code WZ122. The later revised design of WZ1225 would become the basis of the later domestically designed ZTZ80 (80式主战坦克) tanks.
 +
 
 +
The ZTZ88 series was a hybrid of the ZTZ85 (85式主战坦克) which was aimed for export with a redesigned hull and the turret from ZTZ80, aka ZTZ80-I. The ZTZ88A was the improved version with a ZPL94 105 mm gun. What was achieved in ZTZ85 and ZTZ88A would later be used in the new 2nd generation MBT of PLAGF - the [[ZTZ96]] (ZTZ88C). Although it wasn't seen among the tanks at the 1999 National Day parade like its predecessor ZTZ88B was, the ZTZ88A could be seen in pictures from PLA media and they were last seen in large scale during the ongoing Sino-Indo Border Conflicts where numbers of them were deployed near the LAC.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
 
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''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
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;Skins
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* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=cn_ztz_88a Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
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;Videos
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{{Youtube-gallery|M_EnuM2MoQ8|'''The Shooting Range #296''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:28 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
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* ''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:''
 
''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.''
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* ''other literature.'' -->
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
 
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
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* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''other literature.''
 
* ''other literature.''
  
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{{TankManufacturer Norinco}}
 
{{China medium tanks}}
 
{{China medium tanks}}

Latest revision as of 21:22, 29 July 2024

Rank VI USSR | Premium | Golden Eagles
Su-25K Pack
This page is about the Chinese medium tank ZTZ88A. For the other version, see ZTZ88B.
ZTZ88A
cn_ztz_88a.png
GarageImage ZTZ88A.jpg
ZTZ88A
China flag.png China
VI Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
9.0 9.0 9.0
Class:
Research:94 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:520 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The ZhuangJia Tanke ZhuZhan 88A (88A式主战坦克, coded WZ122G) is the 2nd revision of the ZTZ88 MBT in late-1990s; by the time of Mainland China's economic reform and military modernization, PLAGF has dire need for a new MBT before the future ZTZ99 series (Project 784) made into commission. To replace the fleet of ZTZ59 derivatives and utilize the imported 105 mm cannon production line, the Fifth Ministry of Machine Building reused the design of WZ1225 during the Project 122 development from 1970s and built the first Chinese MBT known as the ZTZ80; after around a decade of further development on FCS and better powerplant thanks to the BK122 (Type 85) series, these equipment were soon installed onto the ZTZ80 platform and renamed as the ZTZ88. The A variant replaced the original ZPL83 with a new, longer ZPL94 105 mm cannon and experimented with an applique composite armor pack as the evaluation for future PLAGF composite armor; although deemed obsolete by its introduction by late-1990s with ZTZ99 and ZTZ96 ready for commission, some 700 tanks were built alongside with its base model, ZTZ88B and been seen as late as the 2020s Sino-Indo LAC confrontation.

Introduced in Update "Wind of Change" as a threshold between the ZTZ59/69 series and future ZTZ96 series, ZTZ88A introduced a better FCS, a long barrel 105 mm cannon, as well as new powerplant which would inherit to the future ZTZ96 series; with the experimental applique composite armor and improved mobility over any T-54 family, although it lacks the flexibility of NATO MBTs or the kinetic protection of Soviet MBTs, the tank will come as a lead-in training vehicle for future PLAGF MBTs.

General info

Survivability and armour

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
Armourfront / side / back
Hull100 / 60 / 45
Turret220 / 155 / 65
Crew4 people
Visibility75 %

At first glance, the ZTZ88A still resembles a T-54 or its Chinese domestic counterpart, ZTZ59, but with a closer look at its hull, players will find that it is a new design. The UFP is more angled than the T-54's (67° vs 60°), so the base protection is slightly better than that of the T-54/T-62. Furthermore, thanks to the advancement in composite armour in China, it is also the first Chinese vehicle to be equipped with composite armour as an applique on UFP. Compared to similar hull armour seen on the Soviet T-55AM-1 and T-62M-1, the ZTZ88A has less chemical protection (around 380-420 mm) and 105 mm HEATFS may sometimes be able to damage the driver and fuel tanks towards the lower portion of the UFP. Angling the hull slightly can help mitigate this. Surprisingly, it has better kinetic protection than its Soviet contemporaries: the UFP can resist APFSDS rounds with less than around 180 mm of 60° penetration, so some US and Soviet offerings like 100 mm 3BM25, 105 mm M735, and even 125 mm 3BM15 are blocked. Unfortunately the ubiquitous 105 mm DM23/M111 round used by the Leopard A1A1 for example will penetrate with few issues, but still, the ZTZ88A has one of the most protected hulls at its tier.

The side armour was reduced to 60 mm, so do be aware of any vehicles with autocannons - at the tier, most autocannons have APDS or APFSDS at their disposal. The side skirts can help somewhat at angles.

The turret, on the other hand, is poorly protected comparing to the hull. It is very similar to previous Soviet/Chinese dome-shaped turret designs with only slightly greater thickness. Unlike the ZTZ59D1 and T-69 II G, the ZTZ88A's turret does not have any ERA coverage, leaving it extremely vulnerable to stock HEATFS rounds as well as ATGMs, which are all commonly found at this tier. Thus the uncovered steel armour cannot provide much protection, if any, against ammunitions like APFSDS or HEATFS. Tanks that mainly use chemical rounds are especially more threatening, such as M551 and BMP-1.

Like the previous Soviet/Chinese designs, the crew of 4 tankers is packed in a slightly bigger but still confined space. Although the ammo rack is protected by fuel tanks, the abundance of APFSDS or HEAT at the tier isn't really concerned about these improvements. Be very careful when moving on the battlefield, a penetrating shot will very likely result in a knockout of the crew or ammunition detonation.

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour (Hull)
  • Cast homogeneous armour (Turret)
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 100 + 20 mm (67°) Upper
80 mm (52°) Lower 		60 mm Top
50 mm Bottom 		45 mm (3°) 30 mm (89°)
Turret 200-300 mm Turret front (Volumetric)
70-400 mm Gun mantlet (Volumetric) 		165-250 mm (Volumetric) 60-100 mm (Volumetric) 30 mm (87°)
Cupola 80 mm (cylindrical) 30 mm
Composite armour Frontal effective protection Sides
Hull Upper glacis:
280 mm Kinetic / 380 mm Chemical 		N/A

Notes:

  • Tracks and suspension wheels are 20 mm thick

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB64 / 10 km/h
RB and SB58 / 9 km/h
Number of gears5 forward
1 back
Weight38.5 t
Engine power
AB1 393 hp
RB and SB730 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB36.2 hp/t
RB and SB19.0 hp/t

Thanks to improvements during the early 1980s, the ZTZ88A is equipped with a NORINCO 12150ZL engine with 730 hp, the same as the succeeding ZTZ96, and the chassis has a new suspension offering a smoother ride. The 10% increase in weight compared to the ZTZ59D1 is more than compensated by the 40% increase in engine power. This gives the ZTZ88A a vast improvement in power-weight ratio to about 19.0 hp/ton and thus better a top speed at 57 km/h compared to its predecessors. Although it is not quite as fast as NATO counterparts at similar tier, it is certainly a very welcome improvement. For comparison, the Leopard A1A1 has about 19.6 hp/ton, the T-62M-1 has about 16.4 hp/ton, and the M60A1 RISE (P) only has 14.1 hp/ton. Thanks to the improved horsepower, the ZTZ88A has a considerably faster hull traverse comparing to older tanks like the ZTZ59D1, which is helpful to angle the hull quickly or to wiggle through tight spaces.

The reverse speed however is slightly better at a -9 km/h, it might sound nowhere fast enough like its more agile foes (e.g. Leopard 1, AMX-30, etc.), but it's at least some improvement over the T-54 family. This can be quite risky, meaning that the player must think carefully before peeking out of a cover/hill.

Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 64 10 38.5 1131 1,393 29.38 36.18
Realistic 58 9 646 730 16.78 18.96

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB4 278 → 6 224 Sl icon.png
RB4 442 → 6 463 Sl icon.png
SB5 496 → 7 996 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications160 200 Rp icon.png
267 400 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 600 Ge icon.png
Crew training150 000 Sl icon.png
Experts520 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 100 Ge icon.png
Research Aces950 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
150 / 200 / 240 % Sl icon.png
220 / 220 / 220 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
6 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
6 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
9 900 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
6 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
9 900 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
8 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
620 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
620 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
2 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
1 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
9 900 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement cn.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
8 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Research:
8 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png
Mods engine smoke screen system.png
ESS
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
620 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
6 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
105mm_TYPE83_HESH_ammo_pack
Research:
6 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
105mm_SAP_ammo_pack
Research:
6 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
6 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
9 900 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
105mm_china_HE_VT_ammo_pack
Research:
6 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
9 900 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods tank laser rangefinder.png
Laser rangefinder
Research:
6 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
9 900 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
8 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
105mm_china_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
8 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
620 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Laser rangefinder
Reduces the error and increases the maximum measurable distance of the rangefinder

Main armament

105 mm ZPL94 cannon
Two-plane stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in two planes while moving
Ammunition45 rounds
First-order23 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
9.7 → 7.5 s
Vertical guidance-4° / 18°
Main article: ZPL94 (105 mm)

The introduction of the Royal Ordnance 105 mm L7 cannon marked the transformation of PLAGF from Warsaw Pact armaments to Western ones. The ZPL94 mounted on the ZTZ88A has one of the longest barrels in the L7 family, giving it a higher muzzle velocity over its Western counterparts. While ZTZ88A still doesn't reload quite as quickly as NATO tanks, the gap is significantly smaller.

105 mm ZPL94 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 45 -4°/+18° ±180° Two-plane 19.0 26.4 32.0 35.4 37.6 9.75 8.63 7.95 7.50
Realistic 11.9 14.0 17.0 18.8 20.0

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
Type-83 HEAT HEATFS 400 400 400 400 400 400
DTB-1 HE-VT* 23 23 22 21 21 21
Type-83 HESH HESH 127 127 127 127 127 127
BTM1 SAPCBC 97 96 90 83 76 70
Type-83 APDS APFSDS 351 349 343 336 328 321
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%
Type-83 HEAT HEATFS 1,200 11 0.05 0.1 1.27 65° 72° 77°
Type-83 HESH HESH 750 11.2 0.1 4 4.31 73° 77° 80°
BTM1 SAPCBC 803 16.2 1.2 19 2.31 48° 63° 71°
Type-83 APDS APFSDS 1,500 4.2 - - - 78° 80° 81°
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%
DTB-1 HE-VT* 825 16.2 0.2 0.1 500 15 1.66 79° 80° 81°

The ZTZ88A offers a range of shells at the player's disposal, and players who already own the T-69 II G will be very familiar with them as both tanks share the same shells.

The first option that comes stock is the Type 83 HEAT having identical performance to NATO's DM13 HEAT. At its tier, it is still sufficient to penetrate most tanks without ERA or composite armour and its explosive mass is enough to knock out lighter vehicles with overpressure on occasion. Some opponents to watch out for include the Sho't Kal Dalet, T-55AM-1/T-62M-1, and M60A1 RISE (P).

The DTB-1 is very different from most HE shells at its tier - it is a VT shell, meaning that the shell detonates when it is close to other vehicles, including aircraft; this is a trait that the ZTZ88A's NATO counterparts don't have. It has 1.66 kg of explosive mass, which can sometimes knock out lighter vehicles like SPAAs, but its real utility lies in its anti-air potential. It is suggested to use to target aircraft or helicopters which happen to be within your elevation angle - a hit from DTB-1 is very lethal to aircraft.

The Type 83 HESH is another story. It is a common HESH found on NATO vehicles - a solid hit on vehicles can trigger a lethal post-penetration effect, but the results of HESH is mixed. It generates a wide cone of shrapnel but the effects tend to be rather shallow or inconsistent. It is still possible to snipe stationary vehicles hiding behind cover with Type 83 HESH in some cases so bring some if desired - the laser rangefinder will certainly help with this.

The BTM1 SAP shell is an interesting option returning from the ZTZ59D1. It can't be said to have high penetration by Rank VI standards (and doesn't benefit from the ZPL94 cannon's increased muzzle velocity), but its instant-knockout ability can be entertaining for attacks of opportunity, especially when using the ZTZ88A's good mobility and gun handling compared to previous Chinese tanks.

The last round available is Type 83 APDS, which is actually an APFSDS round. Thanks to the longer barrel of the ZPL94, the overall penetration is slightly higher than M111/DM23 APFSDS at 351 mm point-blank; this is the go-to shell for the ZTZ88A. It might not have the highest penetration at its tier, especially compared to the PTL02 and PTZ89, but it can still hit enemies hard. There are a few opponents to watch out for in uptiers: the British Chieftain Mk 10 and Challenger Mk.2/Mk.3 have tough turrets, and the Soviet T-72A (when spaded), T-72AV (TURMS-T), T-64B, and T-72B have tough turret and UFP armour that the ZTZ88A cannot penetrate without aiming for weak spots.

Ammo racks

Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
45 40 (+5) 23 (+22) 1 (+44) No

Although there are 23 shells in the ready rack, only 19 of them are protected by the fuel tanks, not the 4 shells on the left side; so it is suggested to bring only 20 shells into battle (19 in the rack + 1 preloaded in the breech).

Machine guns

12.7 mm Type 54 machine gun
Ammunition500 rounds
Belt capacity50 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate600 shots/min
Vertical guidance-4° / 82°
7.62 mm Type 59 machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition2 500 rounds
Belt capacity250 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate600 shots/min
Main articles: Type 54 (12.7 mm), Type 59 (7.62 mm)

The ZTZ88A still uses the same machine guns from the obsolete T-54s despite its introduction date in the early 1990s. The Type 54 (DShK) is still sufficient to gun down strafing aircraft/helicopters or lighter vehicles but suffers from a small 50 round belt capacity, while the Type 59 (SGMT) is only good for harassing enemies or sometimes targeting exposed crews.

12.7 mm Type 54
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Pintle 500 (50) 600 -4°/+82° ±180°
7.62 mm Type 59
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 2,500 (250) 600 - -

Usage in battles

For Soviet or Chinese players, the ZTZ88A would feel like a faster T-55A or ZTZ59D1, which is indeed true thanks to its 730 hp engine, giving it higher mobility over them. It might not be the fastest tank at its tier, but the ZTZ88A can still follow the main forces with its speed. For those who are playing against the ZTZ88A, the tank looks very similar to T-55s but they may be surprised when they don't penetrate its UFP thanks to the applique armour. As discussed, it might not stop all contemporary APFSDS or HEATFS, but it certainly helps stop earlier shells and it can still surprise common tanks like the XM-1 (GM) that lack good angled penetration. The turret is another story however - although it is slightly thicker than the T-55s, it will not stop any well-placed shots at its tier. Overall, the ZTZ88A's additional hull armor reduces the likelihood of being destroyed in one shot, but it should not be considered a consistently well-protected tank for advancing straight into enemy fire or peeking out of a hull-down position.

The firepower of the ZTZ88A is certainly sufficient thanks to the longer barrel ZPL94 gun with a variety of shells, faster reload, and improved gun handling over previous PRC tanks; but like many Eastern Bloc/Chinese tanks, it doesn't quite have the reaction time of NATO counterparts and the gunsight is fixed at 8x magnification, so sniping with this gun may be a problem. It also lacks thermal sights from the gunner. Thus, good situational awareness is required.

The ZTZ88A is the earliest non-premium Chinese vehicle with access to the DTB-1 HE-VT round. Players who do not own the T-69 II G or WMA301 may find it a nifty surprise, but there are some limitations to be aware of. It has a considerable explosive content for an anti-air shell but the muzzle velocity of 825 m/s is rather slow by Rank VI standards and it takes 500 m of travel distance to arm. The ZTZ88A also does not have very good vertical elevation angles. With these factors in mind, DTB-1 is best used against helicopters, particularly those that are hovering or moving in straight lines and not paying attention. The laser rangefinder helps immensely for vertical aim adjustment but it is up to the user to provide the proper lead against moving targets.

Overall, the ZTZ88A provides a more mobile and higher firepower alternative for the PLAGF compared to NATO or Soviet counterparts but still has some flaws. It is best used in a more aggressive midfielding role where its significantly better speed compared to the ZTZ59D1, M60A3 TTS, and PTZ89 can be used to rush to objective points and overwatch positions, and its heavier armour and lower profile compared to the PTL02 or WMA301 allows it to survive attacks from IFVs, aircraft, and artillery more easily. DTB-1 gives it some ability to counter early-game helicopter rushes or ATGM helicopters later on. Assess the battlefield to determine if better sniping capabilities, bigger guns, or greater speed are needed on the next spawn. But as one of the most flexible options available in the Chinese lineup at this BR, there is rarely a poor time to bring out the ZTZ88A.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Satisfactory frontal arc protection for its tier, UFP can stop some APFSDS
  • Long barrel L7 with a variety of shells at its disposal
  • Improved reload and gun handling compared to the ZTZ59D1
  • HE-VT shell offers basic anti-air capabilities, especially against helicopters
  • Improved engine with a higher output than its predecessors, leading to better agility than ZTZ59D1 and T-69 II G

Cons:

  • Tightly packed crew and components
  • Poor gun depression and fixed zoom gunsight
  • Only has composite armour on the UFP, turret is completely unprotected
  • No thermal sights, disadvantaged against thermal-equipped tanks like Type 74G
  • No ERA, turret is especially vulnerable to missiles and HEAT shells
  • Slow reverse speed can be fatal in some scenarios

History

After the Damansky/Zhenbao Island (珍宝岛) incident where the PLAGF captured a T-62 from the Soviet border guards, they soon realized that the existing ZTZ59s and later WZ121 (ZTZ69) were nowhere near comparable with the masses of the latest Soviet MBTs. The Commission for Science, Technology and Industry for National Defense (国防科学技术委员会, COSTIND) and Fifth Ministry of Machine Building (第五机械工业部;五机部) accelerated their project coded "Project 2-4" (二四会战; established on 1970/2/4) for a new MBT which would be known as Project 122 (122工程). The project was dropped a few years later after revisions on the development route but this trained new batches of tank designers and engineers for future projects.

Meanwhile, one of the "fail-safe" versions of the designs in Project 122, WZ1225 with the newly-imported 105 mm gun and improved engine, designed by Fang Weixian (方慰先, designer of later ZTZ85, 88, and 96) passed state evaluation and inherited the industrial code WZ122. The later revised design of WZ1225 would become the basis of the later domestically designed ZTZ80 (80式主战坦克) tanks.

The ZTZ88 series was a hybrid of the ZTZ85 (85式主战坦克) which was aimed for export with a redesigned hull and the turret from ZTZ80, aka ZTZ80-I. The ZTZ88A was the improved version with a ZPL94 105 mm gun. What was achieved in ZTZ85 and ZTZ88A would later be used in the new 2nd generation MBT of PLAGF - the ZTZ96 (ZTZ88C). Although it wasn't seen among the tanks at the 1999 National Day parade like its predecessor ZTZ88B was, the ZTZ88A could be seen in pictures from PLA media and they were last seen in large scale during the ongoing Sino-Indo Border Conflicts where numbers of them were deployed near the LAC.

Media

Skins
Videos
The Shooting Range #296 - Metal Beasts section at 00:28 discusses the ZTZ88A.

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

Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:

  • topic on the official game forum;
  • other literature.


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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