In the 1990s, during the war in Southern Lebanon, Merkava Mk.3 tanks of the armoured reconnaissance squadron "Nakhshol" of the 71st battalion of the 188th Armoured Brigade of the Israel Defence Forces, were tested with an experimental electro-optical active protection system codenamed "Ra'am Sagol" ("Purple Thunder") in combat conditions. The system detected the launch of an ATGM, alerted the crew, turned the gun towards the threat and deployed an aerosol screen using standard and additional smoke grenade launchers. The Ra'am Sagol APS did not go into serial production, giving way to the more advanced "Trophy" APS.

The Ra'am Sagol was introduced in Update "Alpha Strike". In the game, its APS informs the commander of the direction from which the tank is being illuminated by an ATGM launch system, and the player can then make their own decision about manoeuvring and firing smoke. In all other respects, the tank is identical to its other counterparts, possessing the familiar 120 mm gun capable of penetrating most tanks, and decent turret protection. It is not the best in mobility compared to other tanks, and the front-mounted engine, while allowing it to withstand hits to the frontal part of the hull, increases the risk of engine failure and fire.