Difference between revisions of "Merkava Mk.2B"

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{{About
 +
| about = Israeli medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 +
| usage = other versions
 +
| link = Merkava (Family)
 +
}}
 
{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=il_merkava_mk_2b_early
 
|code=il_merkava_mk_2b_early
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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.'' -->
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Israeli medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Wind of Change"]].
+
The Merkava Mk.2 was developed in 1983, taking into account the experience of the Lebanon War, which highlighted the need for additional tank protection, including against shaped-charge munitions. The tank received a new fire control system, a laser warning system, and a new transmission. Additionally, the turret's protection was enhanced by installing additional armour screens. In a later version, designated '''Merkava Mk.2B''', the tank also received a thermal sight, and the armour was increased further. The Merkava Mk.2 was first manufactured in 1983 and last produced in 1989, with 580 units constructed in total. It saw service in several local battles, where it performed well. The final Merkava Mk.2 tank was moved to reserve units in 2016. Most of the remaining tanks are currently in storage, though these might potentially be modified to become armoured personnel carriers. They were never exported.
 +
 
 +
The '''Merkava Mk.2B''' was introduced in [[Update "Wind of Change"]]. Its main difference from the [[Merkava Mk.1B]] lies in the addition of composite screens on the sides of the hull and turret, providing the tank with additional protection against HEAT rounds and ATGMs. The tank also boasts a powerful gun and excellent survivability, aided by its laser warning system, a large number of smoke grenades, and its unconventional design - the frontal location of the engine compartment. This unusual engine placement protects the crew from hits to the front, but also increases the risk of engine failure and fire. The Merkava also has low mobility compared to many Western designs.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
Line 12: Line 19:
 
{{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.'' -->
−
''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.''
+
The frontal armour on the Merkava Mk.2B is is overall decent in terms of protection. Its turret is compact and smaller than its counterparts at this BR, making it a difficult target to hit  when hull down at range. Moreover, the shape of its turret features a complex design with extreme angles which boast high ricochet chances. This might confuse enemies who are unaccustomed to it, which might cause them to mess up their shots. But as a consequence to the turret being cramped as it is, penetrating shots at the turret's crew compartment might prove to be fatal.
 +
 
 +
The hull is not as impressive as the turret. On one hand, the lower and upper plates are rather thin, and despite the extreme angle of the upper plate, most APFSDS and chemical rounds will punch through with ease. On the other hand, the Merkava's engine and transmission are conveniently placed at the front to soak up most of the penetrating shot's energy and shrapnel, preventing it from going further into the tank and protecting the crew at the cost of temporary immobilization.
  
 
'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
 
'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
Line 22: Line 31:
 
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Hull || ___ mm || ___ mm ''Top'' <br> ___ mm ''Bottom'' || ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm
+
| Hull || 60 mm (67-76°) ''Front glacis''
 +
60 - 90 mm (30-57°) ''Lower glacis''
 +
| 50 + 10 mm ''Top''
 +
50 + 20 mm (Composite Screens) ''Bottom''
 +
| 30 mm (12-44°) + 200 - 600 mm (air) + 30 mm || 30 mm
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Turret || ___ - ___ mm ''Turret front'' <br> ___ mm ''Gun mantlet'' || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm
+
| Turret || 30 - 65 mm (1-71°) + 45 mm (Spaced armour) + 100 mm ( Cast Homogenous armour near mantlet) + 25 mm (Composite Screens) ''Turret front''
 +
Variable thickness armour (0-75°) ''Gun mantlet''
 +
| 65 mm + 45 mm (Spaced armour) + 25 mm (Composite Screens) ''Upper turret armour''
 +
Variable Thickness Armour mm (0-60°) ''Lower turret armour''
 +
| 65 mm (11° - 66°) + 45 mm (Spaced armour) + 20 mm (Tracks) || 30mm
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Cupola || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm
+
| Cupola || 30 mm || 30 mm || 30 mm || 30mm
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
'''Notes:'''
  
−
'''Notes:''' <!-- Any additional notes which the user needs to be aware of -->
+
* Side composite screens are 20 mm thick.
−
<!-- Example: * Suspension wheels are 20 mm thick, tracks are 30 mm thick, and torsion bars are 60 mm thick. -->
+
* The turret features sides and rear spaced armour.
 +
* Ammo racks are stored in 5-10 mm thick rolled homogeneous armour.
 +
* Armour plates separate the engine and transmission from the fuel tank and 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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.''
+
The Merkava Mk.2B has decent all around mobility, although it is slower than many other medium tanks at its BR. Turning bleeds speed quickly, and the reverse speed is decent at best.
  
−
{{tankMobility}}
+
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,492|rbMinHp=852}}
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
{{Specs-Economy}}
 
{{Specs-Economy}}
 +
Since the engine, transmission, and fuel tank are all positioned right behind the frontal hull armour and serve the role of additional protection, it is mandatory that the player prioritizes the research of parts and FPE first. Then, the player can get the NVD and LWS/LR or adjustment of fire upgrades for more accurate shots. After that, the player should focus on getting the M111, and they should use it as their main ammo type.
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
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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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
{{main|Sharir (105 mm)}}
 
{{main|Sharir (105 mm)}}
−
 
−
''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.''
 
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
−
| rowspan="2" | 54 || rowspan="2" | -8°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__
+
| rowspan="2" | 54 || rowspan="2" | -8°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 38.1 || 52.7 || 64.0 || 70.8 || 75.3 || rowspan="2" | 8.71 || rowspan="2" | 7.70 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 6.70
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
−
| __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._
+
| 23.8 || 28.0 || 34.0 || 37.6 || 40.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
{{:Sharir (105 mm)/Ammunition|M152, M156, M111, M416, M413}}
−
! 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
 
−
|-
 
−
| M152 || HEATFS || __ || __ || __ || __ || __ || __
 
−
|-
 
−
| M156 || HESH || __ || __ || __ || __ || __ || __
 
−
|-
 
−
| M111 || 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%
 
−
|-
 
−
| M152 || HEATFS || ___ || _.__ || __ || _._ || ___ || __° || __° || __°
 
−
|-
 
−
| M156 || HESH || ___ || _.__ || __ || _._ || ___ || __° || __° || __°
 
−
|-
 
−
| M111 || APFSDS || ___ || _.__ || __ || _._ || ___ || __° || __° || __°
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
−
! colspan="7" | Smoke shell characteristics
 
−
|-
 
−
! Ammunition
 
−
! Velocity<br>(m/s)
 
−
! Projectile<br>Mass (kg)
 
−
! Screen radius<br>(m)
 
−
! Screen deploy time<br>(s)
 
−
! Screen hold time<br>(s)
 
−
! Explosive Mass<br>(TNT equivalent) (g)
 
−
|-
 
−
| M416 || ___ || ____ || __ || __ || __ || ___
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
−
<!-- [[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]] -->
+
[[File:Ammoracks_Merkava_Mk.2D.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
−
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
+
<!-- '''Last updated: 2.15.1.22''' -->
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
Line 130: Line 99:
 
! 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
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''54''' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __
+
| '''54''' || 31&nbsp;''(+23)'' || 7&nbsp;''(+47)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+53)'' || No
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
 +
{{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.'' -->
 
{{main|FN MAG 60-40 (7.62 mm)}}
 
{{main|FN MAG 60-40 (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.''
 
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
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! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
|-
 
|-
−
| || ___ (___) || ___ || __° || __°
+
| Pintle (loader) || 1,800 (200) || 600 || -10°/+50° || ±120°
 
|-
 
|-
−
| || ___ (___) || ___ || __° || __°
+
| Pintle (commander) || 1,800 (200) || 600 || -10°/+50° || ±120°
 
|-
 
|-
−
| || ___ (___) || ___ || __° || __°
+
| Coaxial || 6,000 (200) || 600 || N/A || N/A
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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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).''
+
The Merkava Mk.2B is built for urban warfare and sniping, and should be played as such roles. The armour and the equipment it features will make it a formidable foe in the battlefield. Use its compact turret to peak from unexpected locations and utilize its excellent 4-20x commander's view to spot enemies from afar.
 +
 
 +
Enemies that you must be most worried about are the Soviet T-72s and T-64B, as their frontal armour will be a difficult challenge to break through at range when they conceal their lower plate, and their guns are extremely dangerous from any range. The only viable tactic against them is to flank, but you must be very careful not to get flanked yourself, as your side armour can be easily penetrated by even SPAAs.
  
 
=== 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:'''
+
* Excellent hull-down capabilities
−
*
+
* Effective protection of its crew members
 +
* Decent mobility to keep up with most other tanks
 +
* Excellent 4-20x commander's view
 +
* Comes stock with smoke grenades
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* Only has rifle-calibre machine guns, ineffective against lightly-armoured vehicles
 +
* Engine compartment is prone to catch on fire
 +
* Prone to getting ammoracked
 +
* Mediocre 8x gunner zoom (commander view balances this disadvantage, but cannot substitute gunner view)
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
Line 180: Line 154:
 
== 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=il_merkava_mk_2b_early Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 186: Line 163:
 
* ''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;''
+
;Related development
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
 
 +
* [[Merkava (Family)]]
 +
** [[Merkava Mk.2B (USA)]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
Line 195: Line 174:
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
 
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 +
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''other literature.''
 
* ''other literature.''
  
 +
{{TankManufacturer Israeli Ordnance Corps}}
 
{{Israel medium tanks}}
 
{{Israel medium tanks}}

Revision as of 08:05, 3 September 2024

Rank 7 USA
F-5C Pack
This page is about the Israeli medium tank Merkava Mk.2B. For other versions, see Merkava (Family).
Merkava Mk.2B
il_merkava_mk_2b_early.png
GarageImage Merkava Mk.2B.jpg
Merkava Mk.2B
Israel flag.png Israel
VI Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
9.3 9.3 9.3
Class:
Research:110 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:620 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Merkava Mk.2 was developed in 1983, taking into account the experience of the Lebanon War, which highlighted the need for additional tank protection, including against shaped-charge munitions. The tank received a new fire control system, a laser warning system, and a new transmission. Additionally, the turret's protection was enhanced by installing additional armour screens. In a later version, designated Merkava Mk.2B, the tank also received a thermal sight, and the armour was increased further. The Merkava Mk.2 was first manufactured in 1983 and last produced in 1989, with 580 units constructed in total. It saw service in several local battles, where it performed well. The final Merkava Mk.2 tank was moved to reserve units in 2016. Most of the remaining tanks are currently in storage, though these might potentially be modified to become armoured personnel carriers. They were never exported.

The Merkava Mk.2B was introduced in Update "Wind of Change". Its main difference from the Merkava Mk.1B lies in the addition of composite screens on the sides of the hull and turret, providing the tank with additional protection against HEAT rounds and ATGMs. The tank also boasts a powerful gun and excellent survivability, aided by its laser warning system, a large number of smoke grenades, and its unconventional design - the frontal location of the engine compartment. This unusual engine placement protects the crew from hits to the front, but also increases the risk of engine failure and fire. The Merkava also has low mobility compared to many Western designs.

General info

Survivability and armour

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
Hull90 / 50 / 30
Turret65 / 65 / 65
Crew4 people
Visibility103 %

The frontal armour on the Merkava Mk.2B is is overall decent in terms of protection. Its turret is compact and smaller than its counterparts at this BR, making it a difficult target to hit when hull down at range. Moreover, the shape of its turret features a complex design with extreme angles which boast high ricochet chances. This might confuse enemies who are unaccustomed to it, which might cause them to mess up their shots. But as a consequence to the turret being cramped as it is, penetrating shots at the turret's crew compartment might prove to be fatal.

The hull is not as impressive as the turret. On one hand, the lower and upper plates are rather thin, and despite the extreme angle of the upper plate, most APFSDS and chemical rounds will punch through with ease. On the other hand, the Merkava's engine and transmission are conveniently placed at the front to soak up most of the penetrating shot's energy and shrapnel, preventing it from going further into the tank and protecting the crew at the cost of temporary immobilization.

Armour type:

Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 60 mm (67-76°) Front glacis

60 - 90 mm (30-57°) Lower glacis

50 + 10 mm Top

50 + 20 mm (Composite Screens) Bottom

30 mm (12-44°) + 200 - 600 mm (air) + 30 mm 30 mm
Turret 30 - 65 mm (1-71°) + 45 mm (Spaced armour) + 100 mm ( Cast Homogenous armour near mantlet) + 25 mm (Composite Screens) Turret front

Variable thickness armour (0-75°) Gun mantlet

65 mm + 45 mm (Spaced armour) + 25 mm (Composite Screens) Upper turret armour

Variable Thickness Armour mm (0-60°) Lower turret armour

65 mm (11° - 66°) + 45 mm (Spaced armour) + 20 mm (Tracks) 30mm
Cupola 30 mm 30 mm 30 mm 30mm

Notes:

  • Side composite screens are 20 mm thick.
  • The turret features sides and rear spaced armour.
  • Ammo racks are stored in 5-10 mm thick rolled homogeneous armour.
  • Armour plates separate the engine and transmission from the fuel tank and crew compartment.

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB60 / 26 km/h
RB and SB54 / 24 km/h
Number of gears8 forward
4 back
Weight63.0 t
Engine power
AB1 717 hp
RB and SB900 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB27.3 hp/t
RB and SB14.3 hp/t

The Merkava Mk.2B has decent all around mobility, although it is slower than many other medium tanks at its BR. Turning bleeds speed quickly, and the reverse speed is decent at best.

Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 60 26 63 1,492 1,717 23.68 27.25
Realistic 54 24 852 900 13.52 14.29

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB3 949 → 6 235 Sl icon.png
RB4 029 → 6 361 Sl icon.png
SB5 149 → 8 130 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications186 200 Rp icon.png
301 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 700 Ge icon.png
Crew training175 000 Sl icon.png
Experts620 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 100 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 010 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
150 / 200 / 240 % Sl icon.png
226 / 226 / 226 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
7 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
7 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
7 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
9 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
520 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
520 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
2 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
2 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement il.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
9 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mods engine smoke screen system.png
ESS
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
520 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
7 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
105mm_usa_HESH_ammo_pack
Research:
7 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
105mm_usa_M735_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
7 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
7 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods counterMeasures.png
LWS/LR
Research:
7 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods thermal sight.png
NVD
Research:
7 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
9 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
105mm_us_M416_Smoke_ammo_pack
Research:
9 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Research:
9 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
520 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
105mm_DM33_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
520 Ge icon.png

Since the engine, transmission, and fuel tank are all positioned right behind the frontal hull armour and serve the role of additional protection, it is mandatory that the player prioritizes the research of parts and FPE first. Then, the player can get the NVD and LWS/LR or adjustment of fire upgrades for more accurate shots. After that, the player should focus on getting the M111, and they should use it as their main ammo type.

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

105 mm Sharir cannon
Two-plane stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in two planes while moving
Ammunition54 rounds
First-order6 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
8.7 → 6.7 s
Vertical guidance-8° / 20°
Main article: Sharir (105 mm)
105 mm Sharir Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 54 -8°/+20° ±180° Two-plane 38.1 52.7 64.0 70.8 75.3 8.71 7.70 7.10 6.70
Realistic 23.8 28.0 34.0 37.6 40.0

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
M152 HEATFS 400 400 400 400 400 400
M156 HESH 127 127 127 127 127 127
M111 APFSDS 337 335 330 322 314 306
M413 APFSDS 408 405 398 389 379 370
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%
M152 HEATFS 1,174 10.5 0.05 0.1 1.27 65° 72° 77°
M156 HESH 731 11.4 0.1 4 3.17 73° 77° 80°
M111 APFSDS 1,455 4.2 - - - 78° 80° 81°
M413 APFSDS 1,455 3.79 - - - 78° 80° 81°
Smoke shell characteristics
Ammunition Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Screen radius
(m) 		Screen deploy
time (s) 		Screen hold
time (s) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g)
M416 732 11.6 20 5 25 50

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the Merkava Mk.2B
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
54 31 (+23) 7 (+47) 1 (+53) No

Machine guns

7.62 mm FN MAG 60-40 machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition6 000 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate1 001 shots/min
2 x 7.62 mm FN MAG 60-40 machine gun
Ammunition3 600 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate1 001 shots/min
Main article: FN MAG 60-40 (7.62 mm)
7.62 mm FN MAG 60-40
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Pintle (loader) 1,800 (200) 600 -10°/+50° ±120°
Pintle (commander) 1,800 (200) 600 -10°/+50° ±120°
Coaxial 6,000 (200) 600 N/A N/A

Usage in battles

The Merkava Mk.2B is built for urban warfare and sniping, and should be played as such roles. The armour and the equipment it features will make it a formidable foe in the battlefield. Use its compact turret to peak from unexpected locations and utilize its excellent 4-20x commander's view to spot enemies from afar.

Enemies that you must be most worried about are the Soviet T-72s and T-64B, as their frontal armour will be a difficult challenge to break through at range when they conceal their lower plate, and their guns are extremely dangerous from any range. The only viable tactic against them is to flank, but you must be very careful not to get flanked yourself, as your side armour can be easily penetrated by even SPAAs.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Excellent hull-down capabilities
  • Effective protection of its crew members
  • Decent mobility to keep up with most other tanks
  • Excellent 4-20x commander's view
  • Comes stock with smoke grenades

Cons:

  • Only has rifle-calibre machine guns, ineffective against lightly-armoured vehicles
  • Engine compartment is prone to catch on fire
  • Prone to getting ammoracked
  • Mediocre 8x gunner zoom (commander view balances this disadvantage, but cannot substitute gunner view)

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: https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History) and add a link to it here using the main template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <ref></ref>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <references />. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under === In-game description ===, also if applicable).

Media

Skins

See also

Related development

External links

Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:

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


Israeli Ordnance Corps (חיל החימוש)
Medium Tanks  M-51 · M-51 (W)
MBTs 
Magach  Magach 1 · Magach 2 · Magach 3 · Magach 3 (ERA) · ▃Magach 3 (ERA) · Magach 5
  Magach 6 · Magach 6A · Magach 6B · Magach 6C · Magach 6R · Magach 6M · Gal Batash
Sho't  Sho't · Sho't Kal Alef · Sho't Kal Gimel · Sho't Kal Dalet · ▄Sho't Kal Dalet
Tiran  Tiran 4 · Tiran 4S
Merkava  ▃Merkava Mk.1 · Merkava Mk.1B · Merkava Mk.2B · ▃Merkava Mk.2B · Merkava Mk.2D
  Merkava Mk.3B · Merkava Mk.3C · ▃Merkava Mk.3D · Merkava Mk.4B · Merkava Mk.4M
Tank destroyers  Zachlam Tager
See Also  Chrysler Defense · Department of Tank Design · Morozov Design Bureau

Israel medium tanks
M-51  M-51 · M-51 (W)
Magach  Magach 1 · Magach 2 · Magach 3 · Magach 3 (ERA) · Magach 5 · Magach 6
  Magach 6A · Magach 6B · Magach 6B Gal · Gal Batash · Magach 6C · Magach 6M · Magach 6R · Magach Hydra · Magach 7C
Tiran  Tiran 4 · Tiran 4S · Tiran 6
Sho't  Sho't · Sho't Kal Alef · Sho't Kal Gimel · Sho't Kal Dalet
Merkava  Merkava Mk.1B · Merkava Mk.2B · Merkava Mk.2D · Merkava Mk.3B · Merkava Mk.3C · Ra'am Sagol
  Merkava Mk.4B · Merkava Mk.4M · Merkava Mk.4 LIC

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