Difference between revisions of "Merkava Mk.4B"

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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"]].
+
Following the Merkava Mk.3 design and its improvements, the Merkava entered its fourth generation iteration by upgrading most aspects of the tank, particularly in the crew's ability to observe and react to changing scenarios outside the tank. The Merkava Mk.4 began development in the late 1990s, and featured component upgrades: a new fire-control system and hunter-killer system for the commander and gunner, the loader had access to a new 10-round revolving magazine, modular composite armour was added on all sides, and a more powerful engine was installed. However, the biggest change was the upgrade to the electronic systems within the tank. Computerization allowed each crew station to have screens for information management and observation. The commander had access to a battle management system that allowed communication of information across different units. This new Merkava Mk.4B entered service in 2004 and slowly became the primary main battle tank of the Israel Defense Forces, gradually replacing the older Mk.2 and Mk.3 in service.
 +
 
 +
Introduced in [[Update "Wind of Change"]], the Merkava Mk.4B is one of the most recent subvariants of the Merkava main battle tank. With up to 800-1,200 mm of protection on the turret front with its non-explosive reactive armour (NERA), it can effectively resist even hits from ATGMs. Overall, the Merkava Mk.4B is well protected against HEAT warheads. However, despite engine improvements, the Merkava Mk.4B becomes progressively heavier, reducing its mobility in comparison to main battle tanks from other nations.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
Line 17: 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 Merkava is not a small tank by any metric, being very wide and tall. This makes you a big target for enemies.
 +
 
 +
The Merkava is strongly protected against HEAT with up to 800-1,200 mm of protection on the turret front, and the UFP having enough protection with its NERA and engine and transmission blocks to stop a Kornet in its tracks.
 +
 
 +
However, KE protection may be somewhat lacking with average KE protection on the turret front averaging about 450-550mm of KE protection on the turret front and about 350-450mm of protection on the UFP (engine and transmission protection included) which for top tier is not quite adequate.
 +
 
 +
The Merkava also features a unique armour layout being the only tank aside from the Strv 122B PLSS to fit NERA not only on front and side of the turret, but also the front and side of the hull too. it is also the only tank to fit NERA on its roof which historically was to defend from roof fired RPGs.
  
−
'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
+
All in all, the Merkava's armour is somewhat lacking in some areas but can more then compensate in others.
 +
 
 +
'''Armour type:'''
 +
 
 +
* Rolled homogeneous armour<!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
 
<!-- Example: * Rolled homogeneous armour (Front, Side, Rear, Hull roof)
 
<!-- Example: * Rolled homogeneous armour (Front, Side, Rear, Hull roof)
 
* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret, Transmission area) -->
 
* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret, Transmission area) -->
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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 || 50 mm (74°) ''Upper plate'' <br> 50 mm (39-58°) ''Lower glacis'' || 50 mm ''Top'' <br> 50 mm ''Bottom'' || 30 mm (1-45°) || 30 mm
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Turret || ___ - ___ mm ''Turret front'' <br> ___ mm ''Gun mantlet'' || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm
+
| Turret || 40-230 mm (9-62°) ''Turret front'' <br> 197 mm (1°) ''Gun mantlet'' || 38 mm (17°) || 20 mm (1°) || 25-45 mm
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Cupola || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm
+
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 
|-
 
|-
 +
! Composite armour !! Frontal effective protection !! Sides
 +
|-
 +
| Hull || '''Upper glacis:'''<br> 300-450 mm ''Kinetic'' / 1,050-1,300 mm ''Chemical'' (engine block included) <br> '''Lower glacis:'''<br> 180-330 mm ''Kinetic'' / 250-400 mm ''Chemical'' (engine block included) || '''Side:'''<br> 50-228 mm ''Kinetic'' / 320-475 mm ''Chemical''
 +
|-
 +
|Turret || '''Turret cheeks:'''<br> 380-620 mm ''Kinetic'' / 920-1,100 mm ''Chemical'' <br> '''Turret sides'''<br> 240-410 mm ''Kinetic'' / 600-1,120 mm ''Chemical''
 +
|
 
|}
 
|}
−
 
+
'''Notes:'''
−
'''Notes:''' <!-- Any additional notes which the user needs to be aware of -->
+
<!-- Any additional notes which the user needs to be aware of -->
 
<!-- Example: * Suspension wheels are 20 mm thick, tracks are 30 mm thick, and torsion bars are 60 mm thick. -->
 
<!-- Example: * Suspension wheels are 20 mm thick, tracks are 30 mm thick, and torsion bars are 60 mm thick. -->
  
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{{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.''
 
  
−
{{tankMobility}}
+
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=2,325|rbMinHp=1,327}}The mobility of the Merkava is about average for an MBT, easily keeping pass with other MBT's thanks to its improved engine over the Merkava Mk.3.
 +
 
 +
The Merkava may feel quite snappy at low speeds due to its high torque and good gear ratios, it also has neutral steering which makes urban combat much easier.
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
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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|IMI MG251 (120 mm)}}
 
{{main|IMI MG251 (120 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" | 46 || rowspan="2" | -7°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__
+
| rowspan="2" | 46 || rowspan="2" | -7°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 32.4 || 44.8 || 54.4 || 60.2 || 64.0 || rowspan="2" | 7.80 || rowspan="2" | 6.90 || rowspan="2" | 6.36 || rowspan="2" | 6.00
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
−
| __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._
+
| 20.2 || 23.8 || 28.9 || 32.0 || 34.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
{{:IMI MG251 (120 mm)/Ammunition|M325, M339, M322, M338}}
−
! 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
 
−
|-
 
−
| M325 || HEATFS || __ || __ || __ || __ || __ || __
 
−
|-
 
−
| M339 || HE-TF || __ || __ || __ || __ || __ || __
 
−
|-
 
−
| M322 || APFSDS || __ || __ || __ || __ || __ || __
 
−
|-
 
−
| M338 || 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%
 
−
|-
 
−
| M325 || HEATFS || ___ || _.__ || __ || _._ || ___ || __° || __° || __°
 
−
|-
 
−
| M339 || HE-TF || ___ || _.__ || __ || _._ || ___ || __° || __° || __°
 
−
|-
 
−
| M322 || APFSDS || ___ || _.__ || __ || _._ || ___ || __° || __° || __°
 
−
|-
 
−
| M338 || APFSDS || ___ || _.__ || __ || _._ || ___ || __° || __° || __°
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
−
<!-- [[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]] -->
+
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
−
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
+
<!-- '''Last updated: 2.19.0.78''' -->
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
Line 126: Line 105:
 
! 3rd<br>rack empty
 
! 3rd<br>rack empty
 
! 4th<br>rack empty
 
! 4th<br>rack empty
−
! 5th<br>rack empty
 
−
! 6th<br>rack empty
 
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''46''' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __
+
| '''46''' || 30&nbsp;''(+16)'' || 13&nbsp;''(+33)'' || 11&nbsp;''(+35)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+45)'' || No
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|4}}
 
<!-- ''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|M2HB (12.7 mm)|FN MAG 60-40 (7.62 mm)}}
 
{{main|M2HB (12.7 mm)|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
 
|-
 
|-
−
| || ___ (___) || ___ || __° || __°
+
| Coaxial || 1,000 (200) || 575 || - || -
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
|-
 
|-
−
| || ___ (___) || ___ || __° || __°
+
| Pintle || 1,800 (200) || 960 || -5°/+50° || -60°/+120°
 
|-
 
|-
−
| || ___ (___) || ___ || __° || __°
+
| Coaxial || 6,000 (200) || 960 || - || -
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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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 Merkava performs amazingly at range and can still hold its own in a brawl. It plays somewhat similarly to previous Merkavas requiring a more laid back approach in order to well.
 +
 
 +
The Merkava can perform somewhat well in urban combat thanks to its great reaction speed and decent mobility forwards and backwards. However, keep in mind other tanks such as the T-72B3 and T-80BVM will easily outclass you in a brawl so pick your targets wisely.
 +
 
 +
The Merkava has arguably some of the best optics for an MBT in-game due to the commanders sight being very high up and with great zoom at 14x max, and great thermals. this will allow you to play as a sniper on long range maps, being able to acquire and pick off targets with ease as you can play ridges and hills to your advantage.
 +
 
 +
Also make sure to keep close attention to your Laser Warning System (LWS) and the direction it is alerting you to. As this will alert you of drones, helicopters and tanks, therefore giving you time to throw smoke and take cover from an ATGM or find the direction of a tank lasing you so you can return fire. A good way to tell if its a either a tank or a helicopter/drone locking you is that helicopter and drone locks will always continuously lock you whereas a tank may only give a short 1-2 seconds alert.
  
 
=== 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:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* Has access to 2nd generation thermals for both the gunner and commander
 +
* Excellent mobility, even in reverse
 +
* Great and competitive ammo selection
 +
* LWS gives great protection against tanks, helicopters, and drones alike
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* Very vulnerable to most attacks due to a noticeable lack of composite armour or ERA
 +
* Slower reload speed than its NATO counterparts
 +
* Quite big and can be a more appealing target then other tanks
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
Line 183: Line 171:
 
== 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_4b Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 189: Line 180:
 
* ''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.4M]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
Line 200: Line 193:
 
* [[wt:en/news/7607-development-merkava-mk-4b-mk-4m-the-chariots-of-modern-warfare-en|[Devblog] Merkava Mk.4B & Mk.4M: The chariots of modern warfare]]
 
* [[wt:en/news/7607-development-merkava-mk-4b-mk-4m-the-chariots-of-modern-warfare-en|[Devblog] Merkava Mk.4B & Mk.4M: The chariots of modern warfare]]
  
 +
{{TankManufacturer Israeli Ordnance Corps}}
 
{{Israel medium tanks}}
 
{{Israel medium tanks}}

Revision as of 18:36, 4 September 2024

Rank 7 USA
F-5C Pack
This page is about the Israeli medium tank Merkava Mk.4B. For other versions, see Merkava (Family).
Merkava Mk.4B
il_merkava_mk_4b.png
GarageImage Merkava Mk.4B.jpg
Merkava Mk.4B
Israel flag.png Israel
VIII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
12.0 12.0 12.0
Class:
Research:400 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:1 080 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

Following the Merkava Mk.3 design and its improvements, the Merkava entered its fourth generation iteration by upgrading most aspects of the tank, particularly in the crew's ability to observe and react to changing scenarios outside the tank. The Merkava Mk.4 began development in the late 1990s, and featured component upgrades: a new fire-control system and hunter-killer system for the commander and gunner, the loader had access to a new 10-round revolving magazine, modular composite armour was added on all sides, and a more powerful engine was installed. However, the biggest change was the upgrade to the electronic systems within the tank. Computerization allowed each crew station to have screens for information management and observation. The commander had access to a battle management system that allowed communication of information across different units. This new Merkava Mk.4B entered service in 2004 and slowly became the primary main battle tank of the Israel Defense Forces, gradually replacing the older Mk.2 and Mk.3 in service.

Introduced in Update "Wind of Change", the Merkava Mk.4B is one of the most recent subvariants of the Merkava main battle tank. With up to 800-1,200 mm of protection on the turret front with its non-explosive reactive armour (NERA), it can effectively resist even hits from ATGMs. Overall, the Merkava Mk.4B is well protected against HEAT warheads. However, despite engine improvements, the Merkava Mk.4B becomes progressively heavier, reducing its mobility in comparison to main battle tanks from other nations.

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
LWS
Notifies about the vehicle's exposure to laser emissions
Armourfront / side / back
Hull50 / 50 / 30
Turret259 / 40 / 20
Crew4 people
Visibility103 %

The Merkava is not a small tank by any metric, being very wide and tall. This makes you a big target for enemies.

The Merkava is strongly protected against HEAT with up to 800-1,200 mm of protection on the turret front, and the UFP having enough protection with its NERA and engine and transmission blocks to stop a Kornet in its tracks.

However, KE protection may be somewhat lacking with average KE protection on the turret front averaging about 450-550mm of KE protection on the turret front and about 350-450mm of protection on the UFP (engine and transmission protection included) which for top tier is not quite adequate.

The Merkava also features a unique armour layout being the only tank aside from the Strv 122B PLSS to fit NERA not only on front and side of the turret, but also the front and side of the hull too. it is also the only tank to fit NERA on its roof which historically was to defend from roof fired RPGs.

All in all, the Merkava's armour is somewhat lacking in some areas but can more then compensate in others.

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 50 mm (74°) Upper plate
50 mm (39-58°) Lower glacis 		50 mm Top
50 mm Bottom 		30 mm (1-45°) 30 mm
Turret 40-230 mm (9-62°) Turret front
197 mm (1°) Gun mantlet 		38 mm (17°) 20 mm (1°) 25-45 mm
Composite armour Frontal effective protection Sides
Hull Upper glacis:
300-450 mm Kinetic / 1,050-1,300 mm Chemical (engine block included)
Lower glacis:
180-330 mm Kinetic / 250-400 mm Chemical (engine block included) 		Side:
50-228 mm Kinetic / 320-475 mm Chemical
Turret Turret cheeks:
380-620 mm Kinetic / 920-1,100 mm Chemical
Turret sides
240-410 mm Kinetic / 600-1,120 mm Chemical

Notes:

Mobility

Reverse gearbox
Forward and backward movement is possible at the same maximum speed
Speedforward / back
AB72 / 72 km/h
RB and SB65 / 65 km/h
Number of gears7 forward
7 back
Weight65.0 t
Engine power
AB2 862 hp
RB and SB1 500 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB44.0 hp/t
RB and SB23.1 hp/t
Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 72 72 65 2,325 2,862 35.77 44.03
Realistic 65 65 1,327 1,500 20.42 23.08
The mobility of the Merkava is about average for an MBT, easily keeping pass with other MBT's thanks to its improved engine over the Merkava Mk.3.

The Merkava may feel quite snappy at low speeds due to its high torque and good gear ratios, it also has neutral steering which makes urban combat much easier.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB4 366 → 6 893 Sl icon.png
RB4 262 → 6 729 Sl icon.png
SB5 410 → 8 542 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications285 600 Rp icon.png
472 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost3 100 Ge icon.png
Crew training310 000 Sl icon.png
Experts1 080 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 200 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 280 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
150 / 190 / 210 % Sl icon.png
250 / 250 / 250 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
20 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
31 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
18 000 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
18 000 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
19 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
29 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
20 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
31 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
20 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
31 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
6 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
31 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
3 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
18 000 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement il.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
19 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
29 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png
Mods engine smoke screen system.png
ESS
Research:
20 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
31 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
20 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
31 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
18 000 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods counterMeasures.png
LWS/LR
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
18 000 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods thermal sight.png
NVD
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
18 000 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
19 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
29 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Research:
19 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
29 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
20 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
31 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
120mm_DM_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
20 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
31 000 Sl icon.png
440 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

120 mm IMI MG251 cannon
Two-plane stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in two planes while moving
Ammunition46 rounds
First-order10 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
6.5 → 5.0 s
Vertical guidance-7° / 20°
Main article: IMI MG251 (120 mm)
120 mm IMI MG251 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 46 -7°/+20° ±180° Two-plane 32.4 44.8 54.4 60.2 64.0 7.80 6.90 6.36 6.00
Realistic 20.2 23.8 28.9 32.0 34.0

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
M325 HEATFS 480 480 480 480 480 480
M339 HE-TF 65 65 60 58 53 50
M322 APFSDS 589 586 577 565 553 541
M338 APFSDS 611 608 597 585 573 560
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%
M325 HEATFS 1,078 15.81 0.05 0.1 2.36 65° 72° 77°
M339 HE-TF 900 17 1.5 3 3.66 79° 80° 81°
M322 APFSDS 1,705 5.6 - - - 78° 80° 81°
M338 APFSDS 1,680 5.06 - - - 78° 80° 81°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the Merkava Mk.4B
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
46 30 (+16) 13 (+33) 11 (+35) 1 (+45) No

Machine guns

12.7 mm M2HB machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition1 000 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate575 shots/min
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
7.62 mm FN MAG 60-40 machine gun
Ammunition1 800 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate1 001 shots/min
Main articles: M2HB (12.7 mm), FN MAG 60-40 (7.62 mm)
12.7 mm M2HB
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 1,000 (200) 575 - -
7.62 mm FN MAG 60-40
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Pintle 1,800 (200) 960 -5°/+50° -60°/+120°
Coaxial 6,000 (200) 960 - -

Usage in battles

The Merkava Merkava performs amazingly at range and can still hold its own in a brawl. It plays somewhat similarly to previous Merkavas requiring a more laid back approach in order to well.

The Merkava can perform somewhat well in urban combat thanks to its great reaction speed and decent mobility forwards and backwards. However, keep in mind other tanks such as the T-72B3 and T-80BVM will easily outclass you in a brawl so pick your targets wisely.

The Merkava has arguably some of the best optics for an MBT in-game due to the commanders sight being very high up and with great zoom at 14x max, and great thermals. this will allow you to play as a sniper on long range maps, being able to acquire and pick off targets with ease as you can play ridges and hills to your advantage.

Also make sure to keep close attention to your Laser Warning System (LWS) and the direction it is alerting you to. As this will alert you of drones, helicopters and tanks, therefore giving you time to throw smoke and take cover from an ATGM or find the direction of a tank lasing you so you can return fire. A good way to tell if its a either a tank or a helicopter/drone locking you is that helicopter and drone locks will always continuously lock you whereas a tank may only give a short 1-2 seconds alert.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Has access to 2nd generation thermals for both the gunner and commander
  • Excellent mobility, even in reverse
  • Great and competitive ammo selection
  • LWS gives great protection against tanks, helicopters, and drones alike

Cons:

  • Very vulnerable to most attacks due to a noticeable lack of composite armour or ERA
  • Slower reload speed than its NATO counterparts
  • Quite big and can be a more appealing target then other tanks

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


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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