Difference between revisions of "Strv 103C"

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{{Specs-Card|code=sw_strv_103c}}
+
{{About|about=Swedish medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''|usage=other versions|link=Strv 103 (Family)}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=sw_strv_103c
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
 +
}}
  
 
== 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.'' -->
−
[[File:GarageImage {{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' was the final production variant of the S-tank family. In defense decision 1982, it was planned to withhold acquiring new tanks, which meant the existing tanks and the [[Strv 103 (Family)|Strv 103]]s had to undergo renovations. The vehicles were improved with a better Detroit Diesel engine for better manoeuvrability, a laser rangefinder integrated with the gunner sight for better distance accuracy, and built-in dozer blade on all Strv 103Cs for better protection of the lower front of the hull, as well as side skirt protection to improve the overall survivability of the vehicle.
−
{{Break}}
+
 
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Swedish medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]].
+
The '''{{PAGENAME}}''' was introduced in [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]]. An improved version over the [[Strv 103A]] with better manoeuvrability, better and modern shells, and lastly improved survivability with a fence at the front to protect the hull from HEAT and HEAT-FS rounds, side skirts were added to improve side protection as well. Being a hull-aim based vehicle makes its low silhouette easy to hide behind low cover, also able to use the hydraulics to peek over small hills without exposing too much of itself and take a quick shot then go back into hiding and either manoeuvre to a new position or hope the enemy vehicle did not notice from where the {{PAGENAME}} fired from so it can take another peek and fire again. The {{PAGENAME}}, like the preceding [[Strv 103A]], has a fast reloading 105 mm gun and can fire every four seconds to hit with a rapid devastating fire on unaware enemies.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 +
The {{PAGENAME}} is a Swedish MBT with a unique design compared to all other tanks of the same era. The S-tank, as it is more commonly known, makes use of the hull to direct fire at various targets. This feature requires the unique "Enable Hull aiming" key, which turns the tank from its regular cruising mode, into a fixed turret, capable of aiming wherever the player points their cursor. The reason the {{PAGENAME}} made use of hull-aimed weaponry becomes apparent when looking at the armour. The {{PAGENAME}} has armour sloped back more than 75 degrees, giving it strong frontal protection, with a high likelihood of causing enemy shells to ricochet. Another luxury a hull-fixed gun offers is the use of an automatic loading system. The {{PAGENAME}} can fire its main 105 mm cannon every four seconds, no matter the amount of crewmen left. Paired with high mobility, and the {{PAGENAME}} becomes one of the most unique main-battle tanks in the game. With a bit of ingenuity and patience, the {{PAGENAME}} works at all ranges, in almost all conditions imaginable.
 +
 +
This isn't to say the {{PAGENAME}} is without flaws. The tank is incredibly vulnerable to flanking manoeuvres, as the side and rear have a thickness of 30 mm. It usually doesn't matter what kind of vehicle gets behind the {{PAGENAME}}, as even SPAA has no issues penetrating the tank. The gun is also filled with drawbacks, especially relating to the aiming. Due to hull-aiming relying on the ground below it, aiming becomes increasingly difficult on uneven terrain as the tank tries to compensate for things in the way. This results in shaky, and highly inaccurate aiming at longer ranges. The tracking is also bad, as the tank finds it difficult to adjust the speed at which it steers neutrally. This requires a {{PAGENAME}} tanker to wait for the target to cross its line of sight, instead of following it along its path. The armour is incredibly weak against APFSDS rounds and ATGM missiles. These usually have enough penetration to knock the tank out in a single blow, exploding the ammunition in the rear as a final touch. As these types of munitions are quite common at this tier, the {{PAGENAME}} can't rely on armour against most opponents on the battlefield. A positive is that weaker types of munitions usually can't reach the crew compartment, resulting in the {{PAGENAME}} surviving 3-5 shells before dying from engine fires.
 +
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and 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.''
+
{{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.'' -->
 +
 
 +
'''External survivability'''
 +
 
 +
The {{PAGENAME}} is outfitted with incredible frontal protection. This strong impenetrability isn't thanks to composite, but rather sloping. The {{PAGENAME}} has an incredible frontal slope of over 75 degrees. This results in a lot of ricochets from outdated types of munition, which lack significant velocity to damage the tank. Chemical rounds, which penetrate high amounts independent of velocity, have a higher likelihood of penetrating the vehicle. These shells don't bounce off as easily, while still carrying large penetration values. In order to counter this, the {{PAGENAME}} was outfitted with a unique external armour package. Commonly referred to as a "HEAT fence", the {{PAGENAME}} is able to counter upper-plate detonations by fusing them ahead of the armour itself. This hinders chemical rounds from causing heavy post-penetration damages, which increases frontal impenetrability. The lower plate has also been strengthened by the introduction of a dozer blade. This adds an extra 20 mm of angled armour, which comes handy against stronger types of munition. The sides have also been slightly enhanced by the introduction of 5mm fuel-canisters acting as side skirts.
 +
 
 +
'''Internal survivability'''
 +
 
 +
Once a shell penetrates the vehicle, the {{PAGENAME}} has to rely on its layout. Since the S-tank is entirely hull-designed, everything is incredibly compact to accommodate its varying features. The engine is placed at the front of the vehicle, followed by the crew compartment and lastly ammunition storage. When a frontal penetration occurs, a tanker can consider these compartments as varying grades of damage. Engine penetrations are usually fine, as the only way to take the tank out is by igniting it several times. Shells reaching the crew compartment can be severe, as the tank only has 3 members. Thanks to the last-stand feature, only one member needs to be alive. This can result in a lot of tanked hits, since it's difficult for the enemy to locate which member is still left. Finally, the {{PAGENAME}} is usually destroyed in a single hit if the post-penetration is strong enough to reach the rear ammunition storage. A tanker can still luck out if the shell penetrates the left-side when carrying 26 rounds, as only the right side will be filled.
 +
 
 +
A universal strength is the upper ribbed armour package. Previously introduced on the [[Strv 103A]], this package allows the {{PAGENAME}} to "shred" incoming projectiles. Thanks to the introduction of volumetric shells, no subcalibre round can currently sneak through this package. Due to heavy angling, and being placed behind the fence itself, it reaches thickness levels of between 500 and 1200mm, making it one of the strongest armour layouts in the game.
 +
 
 +
A universal weakness is slightly above and below the sharp edge where the upper and lower plate meets. This area can be easily penetrated by both chemical and conventional rounds. With varying damage depending on post-penetration effect. Aiming below the gun-barrel can also knock it out in the process, leaving the {{PAGENAME}} incredibly vulnerable.
 +
 
 +
'''Armour type:'''
 +
 
 +
* Rolled homogeneous armour
 +
* High hardness rolled armour - Slat
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
|-
 +
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 +
|-
 +
| Hull || 40 mm (77°) ''Upper Glacis'' <br> 40 mm (74°) + 20 mm ''Lower Glacis'' || 30 mm +10-20 mm ''Upper'' <br> 30 mm ''Lower'' || 30 mm || 20 mm
 +
|-
 +
| Cupola || 35 mm || 35 mm || 35 mm || 20 mm
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
'''Notes:'''
 +
 
 +
* Tracks are 20 mm thick while the suspension is 15 mm thick.
 +
* Slat armour is 50 mm thick.
 +
* Sideskirts are 4 mm thick.
 +
* The crew compartment is lined with 10 mm RHA.
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== 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.'' -->
  
 
{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 1057|rbMinHp= 690}}
 
{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 1057|rbMinHp= 690}}
 +
 +
When glancing over the stat-card of the {{PAGENAME}}, it can be easy to assume the tank has inferior mobility to the earlier variants. But thanks to the tank utilizing the turbine in tandem with the more powerful diesel engine, it ends up being one of the most powerful engines at its BR. This catches a lot of opponents off-guard, as they generally don't expect the {{PAGENAME}} to be able to change positions quickly. This can also surprise wounded opponents, as they usually think they're safe hiding behind smaller obstacles without the {{PAGENAME}} coming towards them. And when facing opponents lacking any form of subcalibre munitions to deal with the {{PAGENAME}}, a tanker can find enjoyment scaring them by simply charging at their position.
 +
 +
The {{PAGENAME}} suffers from a severe lack of turrets, which makes it vulnerable to bad positioning. Turreted tanks can easily deal with enemies coming from the sides, without exposing a lot of weak spots. The {{PAGENAME}} needs to turn the entire vehicle, which often proves fatal. To avoid this, it's important to practice driving in reverse. The {{PAGENAME}} goes almost top-speed in both directions, making it viable to drive in reverse if the tank requires immediate repositioning. Combining this with smoke-grenades makes it impossible for the enemy to predict where the vehicle currently is.
 +
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
 
=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
−
''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. Advise about how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.''
+
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
 +
<!-- ''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|L74 (105 mm)}}
 +
 
 +
The {{PAGENAME}} is outfitted with the Bofors L74 105 mm cannon. This cannon is identical to the earlier versions of the S-tank. There is some slight visual differences, as the cannon is now welded to the chassis, rather than just drilled through on the earlier variants. But the main difference lies in the ammunition. The {{PAGENAME}} gets access to the DM23 subcalibre shell. This is a treat at its BR, as not all tanks get access to it. The {{PAGENAME}} benefits greatly from this upgrade, as shots don't require the same amount of precision as before to land a devastating hit. This makes it more forgiving to aim, which is especially helpful with the sometimes janky hull-aiming a tanker may experience. But to compensate even further, the {{PAGENAME}} features the same autoloader as any other S-tank, allowing it to fire up to 50 shells with a mere 4-second interval between each round. This makes the {{PAGENAME}} the fastest firing DM23 tank in the game, allowing for some incredible killing sprees when positioned correctly.
  
−
<!-- {{main|Link to cannon}}  -->
 
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | [[CANNON PAGE|Cannon Name]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
+
! colspan="5" | [[L74 (105 mm)|105 mm L74]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || Reloading rate (seconds)
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
 
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
 
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
 
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
−
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
+
!Autoloader
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
−
| rowspan="2" | __ || rowspan="2" | -__°/+__° || rowspan="2" | ±___° || rowspan="2" | __ ||67.2||67.2||81.6||90.2||96.0|| rowspan="2" |4.0|| rowspan="2" |4.0|| rowspan="2" |4.0|| rowspan="2" |4.0
+
| rowspan="2" | 50 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+12° || rowspan="2" | N/A || rowspan="2" | N/A || 33.6 || 33.6 || 40.8 || 45.1 || 48.0 || rowspan="2" | 4.00
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
−
|42.0||42.0||51.0||56.4||60.2
+
| 21.0 || 21.0 || 25.5 || 28.2 || 30.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
{{:L74 (105 mm)/Ammunition|slpprj m/62, slpprj m/80, slsgr m/61A, rökgr m/61, Shell L35}}
−
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
+
 
 +
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 +
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
 +
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! Full<br>ammo
 +
! 1st<br>rack empty
 +
! 2nd<br>rack empty
 +
! 3rd<br>rack empty
 +
! 4th<br>rack empty
 +
! 5th<br>rack empty
 
|-
 
|-
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
+
| '''50''' || 46&nbsp;''(+4)'' || 41&nbsp;''(+9)'' || 36&nbsp;''(+14)'' || 31&nbsp;''(+19)'' || 26&nbsp;''(+24)''
−
! 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
+
! 6th<br>rack empty
 +
! 7th<br>rack empty
 +
! 8th<br>rack empty
 +
! 9th<br>rack empty
 +
! 10th<br>rack empty
 +
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ___ || ___ || ___ || ___ || ___ || ___ || ___ || ___
+
| 21&nbsp;''(+29)'' || 16&nbsp;''(+34)'' || 11&nbsp;''(+39)'' || 6&nbsp;''(+44)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+49)'' || No
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
'''Note''':
  
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
* Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
−
! colspan="10" | Shell details
+
 
 +
=== Machine guns ===
 +
{{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.'' -->
 +
{{main|ksp 58 (7.62 mm)}}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
+
! colspan="5" | [[ksp 58 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm ksp 58]]
−
! 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%
+
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ___ || ___ || ___ || _.__ || __ || _._ || _.__ || __° || __° || __°
+
| Coaxial || 500 (250) || 600 || N/A || N/A
 
|-
 
|-
−
|}
+
| Coaxial || 500 (250) || 600 || N/A || N/A
−
 
 
−
{| 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)
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ___ || ___ || _.__ || __ || _ || __ || __
+
| Pintle || 1,500 (250) || 600 || -10°/+30° || ±180°
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
== 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).'' -->
 +
'''Long-range Maps'''
 +
 
 +
A natural fit for the {{PAGENAME}} is long distance engagements. With its high fire-rate and fast shell, paired with unmatched optics and laser rangefinder, it has all the tools to dominate opponents at longer distances. The {{PAGENAME}} should be spawned as early as possible, swiftly positioned far ahead of the team, with plentiful amounts of cover to compensate for its lacklustre survivability against subcalibre munitions. Since the tank has incredible mobility, and almost impenetrable frontal protection in hull-down positions, the S-tank creates hell for the enemy team, forcing them to strategically flank the vehicle, or attack it with guided missiles. The gun barrel can still get knocked out, forcing the {{PAGENAME}} to back away for a few seconds to repair. This can prove costly however, as this window of opportunity can be wide enough to allow a flanking manoeuvre by the enemy team.
 +
 
 +
Having teammates substantially increases the tank's survivability against flanking opponents, as a turreted teammate can easily engage enemies trying to sneak a final shot in.
 +
 
 +
'''Close-range Maps.'''
 +
 
 +
Realizing the upsides and downsides of the {{PAGENAME}} makes it clear the vehicle was never designed for close-range engagements. This downside does show its truth as the vehicle can't fire on the move effectively, and is forced to take it slow in order to not get blasted from the side in a single shot. Either way, these maps can't be ignored when spading the vehicle, or when trying to research its more conventional brother, the [[Strv 104]]. Despite its flaws, the many upsides still have a lot of usage in closer engagements, and can result in high kill games, despite the uncomfortable surroundings. At the start of a match, the mobility should still be used to its limits. The {{PAGENAME}} only really gets to move freely without any form of danger at the beginning of the match where opponents haven't yet secured any areas of the map, so it's important to take a good position as early as possible. Hiding behind buildings and corners is highly effective, as getting flanked won't occur as often. The tank can very effectively fight off one enemy at a time, but struggles to focus on several opponents at once, due to the lack of a conventional turret. This forces the {{PAGENAME}} to pick off targets when they're busy with something else. Alternatively, if the {{PAGENAME}} sees opponents incapable of effectively penetrating its frontal protection, it can calmly peek out of cover to attack, without any danger, as even if the barrel gets damaged, the tank can swiftly reverse back at max speed.
 +
 
 +
Having a coordinated teammate can prove devastating for the enemy team, as a turreted teammate can easily fend off opponents from directions the {{PAGENAME}} can't handle. Thanks to the tanks amazing survivability, the {{PAGENAME}} can coordinate with a lesser armoured teammate, to work as a spearhead against incoming shells. As soon as the {{PAGENAME}} gets crippled, a teammate can easily jump in to deal with the distracted opponents. Since the {{PAGENAME}} needs to repair a lot due to commonly sustaining damage, having a teammate that can lower repair times is incredibly helpful.
  
−
=== Modules ===
+
{{Notice
−
{| class="wikitable"
+
|Always smoke when you get immobilized in the {{PAGENAME}}! After smoking you can angle the tank vertically with the use of hull-aiming, making it difficult for the enemy to deal more damage.|!
−
! Tier
+
}}
−
! colspan="2" | Mobility
 
−
! Protection
 
−
! colspan="3" | Firepower
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Tracks
 
−
|
 
−
| Parts
 
−
|
 
−
|
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
| Suspension
 
−
| Brake System
 
−
| FPE
 
−
| Adjustment of Fire
 
−
| Shell L35
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Filters
 
−
|
 
−
| Crew Replenishment
 
−
| rökgr m/61
 
−
| NVD
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
| Transmission
 
−
| Engine
 
−
| Smoke grenade
 
−
| Laser rangefinder
 
−
| Artillery Support
 
−
| slpprj m/80
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
=== 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".'' -->
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* Compared to previous version the tank has access to a high penetrating APFSDS shell, which can take on most enemies
+
* Improved shell choice over the [[Strv 103A|predecessor]]
−
* Frontal engine and spall shield can absorb most AP (and its variants) shells
+
* In favourable terrain and positioning it can become difficult to spot and penetrate
−
* New HEAT "fence" can negate HE and HESH shells, sometimes even HEAT-FS, altough rarely
+
* New HEAT "fence" - Counters most Chemical rounds
 +
* Strong turbine engine - Gives the tank high mobility & good off-road performance
 +
* Low silhouette - Capable of hiding behind walls and small hills
 +
* Excellent optics - 18X zoom
 +
* Dozer blade can create cover if none is readily available
 +
* Can be controlled by one crew member
  
−
*
+
'''Cons:'''
  
−
'''Cons:'''
+
* When caught exposed it can be easily penetrated by most of the MBTs, making the tank very situational
 +
* Unusually compact interior makes any penetrating shot much more devastating
 +
* Gun is prone to damage
 +
* Unable to fire while moving
 +
* Poor stock performance - Weak stock rounds and slow acceleration
 +
* Loud turbine & diesel engine - Difficult to silently hide
 +
* Hull aiming is hard to use
 +
 
 +
== 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).'' -->
 +
 
 +
Strv 103C is the last official series of the S tank, in the army decision 1972 and 1982 it was decided that getting a new tank for the army was going to be postponed to the 1990s and the Swedish army at time would focus on lighter combat vehicles. So to modernize the S tanks, the Strv 103Bs had to go through a renovation with upgrading the systems and improve the vehicles in a so called REMO (Renovation and Modification) process and it was not until 1986 the first Strv 103B got its REMO done and was designated Strv 103C.
 +
 
 +
In the Renovation and Modification process the Strv 103Bs got upgraded from a Rolls Royce piston engine to a Detroit Diesel engine, dozer blade on all "S" Tanks that used to be only 1 of 3 Strv 103s equipped with that, new tracks, new external fuel tanks in the form of 22 litre jerry cans that were attached on the sides that also worked as extra protection to the side armour, laser rangefinder that was integrated with the aimsight for the gunner, Lyran 71 mm illuminating mortar and new gearbox.
 +
 
 +
It was not until 1988 that all 290 Strv 103Bs had been renovated to Strv 103C where they stayed in service until 1997 the Strv 103 saw the last of its service in the armed forces.
 +
 
 +
=== [[wt:en/news/6505-development-strv-103-0-last-man-standing-en|Devblog]] ===
 +
In the immediate postwar years, Sweden began looking for a replacement to the Centurion tanks, then in service with its army. The most straightforward solution was to once again look into the export market for potential candidates, although engineers were already working on a domestic design - the Kranvagn. While this process was ongoing, an engineer by the name of Sven Berge came up with a radical new tank design in 1956.
  
−
* Armour is no longer very effective due to facing more APDS and APFSDS at the higher Battle Rating which can cut straight trough the armor, even with its extreme angle
+
This new vehicle featured a turretless design with a cannon fixed to the hull, which would be trained onto its targets with the precise use of an adjustable suspension system. The design was based on results from a study on tank crew casualties during WWII and the Korean War, which showed a correlation between tank height and hit probability. As such, the 'S-Tank' was kept very small in dimensions and low in profile, while also utilizing some innovative new engineering solutions, such as a mixed power plant consisting of a diesel engine and a gas turbine.
−
* Extremely weak side armor, wont stop anything larger than a heavy machine gun.
 
  
−
*
+
In 1959, the Swedish government approved the construction and testing of two prototypes. In 1960, a pre-production batch of 10 vehicles of the '0-serie' was ordered for field trials, which went on into the mid '60s.  Generating more than favorable test results, the vehicle was formally ordered into production and procured as the 'Stridsvagn 103'.
  
−
== History ==
+
Despite its original purpose being to replace the Centurion tanks in the Swedish Army, the Strv 103 ended up serving alongside it for a number of decades, until it was ultimately decommissioned in the late 1990s. By that time, 290 Strv 103s were built, spanning over five variants.
−
''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).''
 
  
 
== 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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<!-- ''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=sw_strv_103c Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
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;Images
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<gallery mode="packed-hover" heights="200px">
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File:Strv 103C 1.png|thumb|Strv 103C after firing main gun
 +
File:Strv 103C 2.png|thumb|Strv 103C in forest
 +
</gallery>
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|5PAkCJChYNI|'''Maximum Swedish Frustration - Strv 103c''' - ''JustinPlaysYT''|uQVze1fZYw4|'''The {{PAGENAME}} Main Battle Tank''' - ''Orangefan''|C7cb7GlOnSY|'''Tank Chats #117 - Stridsvagn 103''' - ''The Tank Museum''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
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== External links ==
 
== External links ==
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''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
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* ''topic on the official game forum;''
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* ''other literature.'' -->
  
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* ''topic on the official game forum;''
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* [https://www.tanks-encyclopedia.com/coldwar/Sweden/Stridsvagn-103.php <nowiki>[Tanks Encyclopedia]</nowiki> Strivsvagn-103 (1956)]
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* ''encyclopedia page on the tank;''
 
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* ''other literature.''
 
  
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{{TankManufacturer AB Bofors}}
 
{{Sweden medium tanks}}
 
{{Sweden medium tanks}}

Latest revision as of 21:26, 7 November 2024

Rank 7 USA
F-5C Pack
This page is about the Swedish medium tank Strv 103C. For other versions, see Strv 103 (Family).
Strv 103С
sw_strv_103c.png
GarageImage Strv 103C.jpg
Strv 103С
Sweden flag.png Sweden
VI Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
8.7 8.7 8.7
Class:
Research:94 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:520 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Stridsvagn 103С was the final production variant of the S-tank family. In defense decision 1982, it was planned to withhold acquiring new tanks, which meant the existing tanks and the Strv 103s had to undergo renovations. The vehicles were improved with a better Detroit Diesel engine for better manoeuvrability, a laser rangefinder integrated with the gunner sight for better distance accuracy, and built-in dozer blade on all Strv 103Cs for better protection of the lower front of the hull, as well as side skirt protection to improve the overall survivability of the vehicle.

The Strv 103C was introduced in Update 1.97 "Viking Fury". An improved version over the Strv 103A with better manoeuvrability, better and modern shells, and lastly improved survivability with a fence at the front to protect the hull from HEAT and HEAT-FS rounds, side skirts were added to improve side protection as well. Being a hull-aim based vehicle makes its low silhouette easy to hide behind low cover, also able to use the hydraulics to peek over small hills without exposing too much of itself and take a quick shot then go back into hiding and either manoeuvre to a new position or hope the enemy vehicle did not notice from where the Strv 103C fired from so it can take another peek and fire again. The Strv 103C, like the preceding Strv 103A, has a fast reloading 105 mm gun and can fire every four seconds to hit with a rapid devastating fire on unaware enemies.

General info

The Strv 103C is a Swedish MBT with a unique design compared to all other tanks of the same era. The S-tank, as it is more commonly known, makes use of the hull to direct fire at various targets. This feature requires the unique "Enable Hull aiming" key, which turns the tank from its regular cruising mode, into a fixed turret, capable of aiming wherever the player points their cursor. The reason the Strv 103C made use of hull-aimed weaponry becomes apparent when looking at the armour. The Strv 103C has armour sloped back more than 75 degrees, giving it strong frontal protection, with a high likelihood of causing enemy shells to ricochet. Another luxury a hull-fixed gun offers is the use of an automatic loading system. The Strv 103C can fire its main 105 mm cannon every four seconds, no matter the amount of crewmen left. Paired with high mobility, and the Strv 103C becomes one of the most unique main-battle tanks in the game. With a bit of ingenuity and patience, the Strv 103C works at all ranges, in almost all conditions imaginable.

This isn't to say the Strv 103C is without flaws. The tank is incredibly vulnerable to flanking manoeuvres, as the side and rear have a thickness of 30 mm. It usually doesn't matter what kind of vehicle gets behind the Strv 103C, as even SPAA has no issues penetrating the tank. The gun is also filled with drawbacks, especially relating to the aiming. Due to hull-aiming relying on the ground below it, aiming becomes increasingly difficult on uneven terrain as the tank tries to compensate for things in the way. This results in shaky, and highly inaccurate aiming at longer ranges. The tracking is also bad, as the tank finds it difficult to adjust the speed at which it steers neutrally. This requires a Strv 103C tanker to wait for the target to cross its line of sight, instead of following it along its path. The armour is incredibly weak against APFSDS rounds and ATGM missiles. These usually have enough penetration to knock the tank out in a single blow, exploding the ammunition in the rear as a final touch. As these types of munitions are quite common at this tier, the Strv 103C can't rely on armour against most opponents on the battlefield. A positive is that weaker types of munitions usually can't reach the crew compartment, resulting in the Strv 103C surviving 3-5 shells before dying from engine fires.

Survivability and armour

Smoke grenades
Creation of a smoke screen in front of the vehicle
Self-entrenching equipment
Creation of ramparts and trenches in soft ground
Armourfront / side / back
Hull40 / 30 / 30
Turret0 / 0 / 0
Crew3 people
Visibility73 %

External survivability

The Strv 103C is outfitted with incredible frontal protection. This strong impenetrability isn't thanks to composite, but rather sloping. The Strv 103C has an incredible frontal slope of over 75 degrees. This results in a lot of ricochets from outdated types of munition, which lack significant velocity to damage the tank. Chemical rounds, which penetrate high amounts independent of velocity, have a higher likelihood of penetrating the vehicle. These shells don't bounce off as easily, while still carrying large penetration values. In order to counter this, the Strv 103C was outfitted with a unique external armour package. Commonly referred to as a "HEAT fence", the Strv 103C is able to counter upper-plate detonations by fusing them ahead of the armour itself. This hinders chemical rounds from causing heavy post-penetration damages, which increases frontal impenetrability. The lower plate has also been strengthened by the introduction of a dozer blade. This adds an extra 20 mm of angled armour, which comes handy against stronger types of munition. The sides have also been slightly enhanced by the introduction of 5mm fuel-canisters acting as side skirts.

Internal survivability

Once a shell penetrates the vehicle, the Strv 103C has to rely on its layout. Since the S-tank is entirely hull-designed, everything is incredibly compact to accommodate its varying features. The engine is placed at the front of the vehicle, followed by the crew compartment and lastly ammunition storage. When a frontal penetration occurs, a tanker can consider these compartments as varying grades of damage. Engine penetrations are usually fine, as the only way to take the tank out is by igniting it several times. Shells reaching the crew compartment can be severe, as the tank only has 3 members. Thanks to the last-stand feature, only one member needs to be alive. This can result in a lot of tanked hits, since it's difficult for the enemy to locate which member is still left. Finally, the Strv 103C is usually destroyed in a single hit if the post-penetration is strong enough to reach the rear ammunition storage. A tanker can still luck out if the shell penetrates the left-side when carrying 26 rounds, as only the right side will be filled.

A universal strength is the upper ribbed armour package. Previously introduced on the Strv 103A, this package allows the Strv 103C to "shred" incoming projectiles. Thanks to the introduction of volumetric shells, no subcalibre round can currently sneak through this package. Due to heavy angling, and being placed behind the fence itself, it reaches thickness levels of between 500 and 1200mm, making it one of the strongest armour layouts in the game.

A universal weakness is slightly above and below the sharp edge where the upper and lower plate meets. This area can be easily penetrated by both chemical and conventional rounds. With varying damage depending on post-penetration effect. Aiming below the gun-barrel can also knock it out in the process, leaving the Strv 103C incredibly vulnerable.

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour
  • High hardness rolled armour - Slat
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 40 mm (77°) Upper Glacis
40 mm (74°) + 20 mm Lower Glacis 		30 mm +10-20 mm Upper
30 mm Lower 		30 mm 20 mm
Cupola 35 mm 35 mm 35 mm 20 mm

Notes:

  • Tracks are 20 mm thick while the suspension is 15 mm thick.
  • Slat armour is 50 mm thick.
  • Sideskirts are 4 mm thick.
  • The crew compartment is lined with 10 mm RHA.

Mobility

 
Controlled suspension
It is possible to adjust the ground clearance or more complex suspension positions
Speedforward / back
AB55 / 49 km/h
RB and SB50 / 44 km/h
Number of gears7 forward
6 back
Weight42.5 t
Engine power
AB1 488 hp
RB and SB780 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB35.0 hp/t
RB and SB18.4 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 55 49 42.5 1057 1,488 24.87 35.01
Realistic 50 44 690 780 16.24 18.35

When glancing over the stat-card of the Strv 103C, it can be easy to assume the tank has inferior mobility to the earlier variants. But thanks to the tank utilizing the turbine in tandem with the more powerful diesel engine, it ends up being one of the most powerful engines at its BR. This catches a lot of opponents off-guard, as they generally don't expect the Strv 103C to be able to change positions quickly. This can also surprise wounded opponents, as they usually think they're safe hiding behind smaller obstacles without the Strv 103C coming towards them. And when facing opponents lacking any form of subcalibre munitions to deal with the Strv 103C, a tanker can find enjoyment scaring them by simply charging at their position.

The Strv 103C suffers from a severe lack of turrets, which makes it vulnerable to bad positioning. Turreted tanks can easily deal with enemies coming from the sides, without exposing a lot of weak spots. The Strv 103C needs to turn the entire vehicle, which often proves fatal. To avoid this, it's important to practice driving in reverse. The Strv 103C goes almost top-speed in both directions, making it viable to drive in reverse if the tank requires immediate repositioning. Combining this with smoke-grenades makes it impossible for the enemy to predict where the vehicle currently is.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB4 639 → 6 327 Sl icon.png
RB5 050 → 6 888 Sl icon.png
SB6 429 → 8 769 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications153 400 Rp icon.png
266 000 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
140 / 210 / 250 % Sl icon.png
220 / 220 / 220 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
17 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
27 000 Sl icon.png
640 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
7 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
7 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
410 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
5 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
27 000 Sl icon.png
640 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
2 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement sw.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
410 Ge icon.png
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
7 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
105mm_usa_HESH_ammo_pack
Research:
7 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods dozer blade.png
Dozer Blade
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
410 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
105mm_us_M416_Smoke_ammo_pack
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
410 Ge icon.png
Mods tank laser rangefinder.png
Laser rangefinder
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
105mm_usa_M735_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png

Armaments

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

Main armament

105 mm L74 cannon
Autoloader
Automatically feeds projectiles into the breech. The speed does not depend on the skills of the loader
Ammunition50 rounds
Reload4.0 s
Vertical guidance-10° / 12°
Main article: L74 (105 mm)

The Strv 103C is outfitted with the Bofors L74 105 mm cannon. This cannon is identical to the earlier versions of the S-tank. There is some slight visual differences, as the cannon is now welded to the chassis, rather than just drilled through on the earlier variants. But the main difference lies in the ammunition. The Strv 103C gets access to the DM23 subcalibre shell. This is a treat at its BR, as not all tanks get access to it. The Strv 103C benefits greatly from this upgrade, as shots don't require the same amount of precision as before to land a devastating hit. This makes it more forgiving to aim, which is especially helpful with the sometimes janky hull-aiming a tanker may experience. But to compensate even further, the Strv 103C features the same autoloader as any other S-tank, allowing it to fire up to 50 shells with a mere 4-second interval between each round. This makes the Strv 103C the fastest firing DM23 tank in the game, allowing for some incredible killing sprees when positioned correctly.

105 mm L74 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Autoloader
Arcade 50 -10°/+12° N/A N/A 33.6 33.6 40.8 45.1 48.0 4.00
Realistic 21.0 21.0 25.5 28.2 30.0

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
slpprj m/66 APDS 272 269 258 246 233 222
slpprj m/80 APFSDS 337 335 330 322 314 306
slsgr m/61A HE 23 23 23 23 23 23
Shell L35 HESH 127 127 127 127 127 127
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%
slpprj m/66 APDS 1,450 4.53 - - - 75° 78° 80°
slpprj m/80 APFSDS 1,455 4.2 - - - 78° 80° 81°
slsgr m/61A HE 680 15.5 0 0.1 1.83 79° 80° 81°
Shell L35 HESH 720 11.4 0.1 4 3.15 73° 77° 80°
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)
rökgr m/61 330 18.7 20 5 25 50

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the Strv 103C
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		5th
rack empty
50 46 (+4) 41 (+9) 36 (+14) 31 (+19) 26 (+24)
6th
rack empty 		7th
rack empty 		8th
rack empty 		9th
rack empty 		10th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
21 (+29) 16 (+34) 11 (+39) 6 (+44) 1 (+49) No

Note:

  • Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.

Machine guns

2 x 7.62 mm ksp 58 machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition1 000 rounds
Belt capacity250 rounds
Reload8.0 s
Fire rate600 shots/min
7.62 mm ksp 58 machine gun
Ammunition1 500 rounds
Belt capacity250 rounds
Reload8.0 s
Fire rate600 shots/min
Main article: ksp 58 (7.62 mm)
7.62 mm ksp 58
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 500 (250) 600 N/A N/A
Coaxial 500 (250) 600 N/A N/A
Pintle 1,500 (250) 600 -10°/+30° ±180°

Usage in battles

Long-range Maps

A natural fit for the Strv 103C is long distance engagements. With its high fire-rate and fast shell, paired with unmatched optics and laser rangefinder, it has all the tools to dominate opponents at longer distances. The Strv 103C should be spawned as early as possible, swiftly positioned far ahead of the team, with plentiful amounts of cover to compensate for its lacklustre survivability against subcalibre munitions. Since the tank has incredible mobility, and almost impenetrable frontal protection in hull-down positions, the S-tank creates hell for the enemy team, forcing them to strategically flank the vehicle, or attack it with guided missiles. The gun barrel can still get knocked out, forcing the Strv 103C to back away for a few seconds to repair. This can prove costly however, as this window of opportunity can be wide enough to allow a flanking manoeuvre by the enemy team.

Having teammates substantially increases the tank's survivability against flanking opponents, as a turreted teammate can easily engage enemies trying to sneak a final shot in.

Close-range Maps.

Realizing the upsides and downsides of the Strv 103C makes it clear the vehicle was never designed for close-range engagements. This downside does show its truth as the vehicle can't fire on the move effectively, and is forced to take it slow in order to not get blasted from the side in a single shot. Either way, these maps can't be ignored when spading the vehicle, or when trying to research its more conventional brother, the Strv 104. Despite its flaws, the many upsides still have a lot of usage in closer engagements, and can result in high kill games, despite the uncomfortable surroundings. At the start of a match, the mobility should still be used to its limits. The Strv 103C only really gets to move freely without any form of danger at the beginning of the match where opponents haven't yet secured any areas of the map, so it's important to take a good position as early as possible. Hiding behind buildings and corners is highly effective, as getting flanked won't occur as often. The tank can very effectively fight off one enemy at a time, but struggles to focus on several opponents at once, due to the lack of a conventional turret. This forces the Strv 103C to pick off targets when they're busy with something else. Alternatively, if the Strv 103C sees opponents incapable of effectively penetrating its frontal protection, it can calmly peek out of cover to attack, without any danger, as even if the barrel gets damaged, the tank can swiftly reverse back at max speed.

Having a coordinated teammate can prove devastating for the enemy team, as a turreted teammate can easily fend off opponents from directions the Strv 103C can't handle. Thanks to the tanks amazing survivability, the Strv 103C can coordinate with a lesser armoured teammate, to work as a spearhead against incoming shells. As soon as the Strv 103C gets crippled, a teammate can easily jump in to deal with the distracted opponents. Since the Strv 103C needs to repair a lot due to commonly sustaining damage, having a teammate that can lower repair times is incredibly helpful.

Msg-important.png Always smoke when you get immobilized in the Strv 103C! After smoking you can angle the tank vertically with the use of hull-aiming, making it difficult for the enemy to deal more damage.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Improved shell choice over the predecessor
  • In favourable terrain and positioning it can become difficult to spot and penetrate
  • New HEAT "fence" - Counters most Chemical rounds
  • Strong turbine engine - Gives the tank high mobility & good off-road performance
  • Low silhouette - Capable of hiding behind walls and small hills
  • Excellent optics - 18X zoom
  • Dozer blade can create cover if none is readily available
  • Can be controlled by one crew member

Cons:

  • When caught exposed it can be easily penetrated by most of the MBTs, making the tank very situational
  • Unusually compact interior makes any penetrating shot much more devastating
  • Gun is prone to damage
  • Unable to fire while moving
  • Poor stock performance - Weak stock rounds and slow acceleration
  • Loud turbine & diesel engine - Difficult to silently hide
  • Hull aiming is hard to use

History

Strv 103C is the last official series of the S tank, in the army decision 1972 and 1982 it was decided that getting a new tank for the army was going to be postponed to the 1990s and the Swedish army at time would focus on lighter combat vehicles. So to modernize the S tanks, the Strv 103Bs had to go through a renovation with upgrading the systems and improve the vehicles in a so called REMO (Renovation and Modification) process and it was not until 1986 the first Strv 103B got its REMO done and was designated Strv 103C.

In the Renovation and Modification process the Strv 103Bs got upgraded from a Rolls Royce piston engine to a Detroit Diesel engine, dozer blade on all "S" Tanks that used to be only 1 of 3 Strv 103s equipped with that, new tracks, new external fuel tanks in the form of 22 litre jerry cans that were attached on the sides that also worked as extra protection to the side armour, laser rangefinder that was integrated with the aimsight for the gunner, Lyran 71 mm illuminating mortar and new gearbox.

It was not until 1988 that all 290 Strv 103Bs had been renovated to Strv 103C where they stayed in service until 1997 the Strv 103 saw the last of its service in the armed forces.

Devblog

In the immediate postwar years, Sweden began looking for a replacement to the Centurion tanks, then in service with its army. The most straightforward solution was to once again look into the export market for potential candidates, although engineers were already working on a domestic design - the Kranvagn. While this process was ongoing, an engineer by the name of Sven Berge came up with a radical new tank design in 1956.

This new vehicle featured a turretless design with a cannon fixed to the hull, which would be trained onto its targets with the precise use of an adjustable suspension system. The design was based on results from a study on tank crew casualties during WWII and the Korean War, which showed a correlation between tank height and hit probability. As such, the 'S-Tank' was kept very small in dimensions and low in profile, while also utilizing some innovative new engineering solutions, such as a mixed power plant consisting of a diesel engine and a gas turbine.

In 1959, the Swedish government approved the construction and testing of two prototypes. In 1960, a pre-production batch of 10 vehicles of the '0-serie' was ordered for field trials, which went on into the mid '60s. Generating more than favorable test results, the vehicle was formally ordered into production and procured as the 'Stridsvagn 103'.

Despite its original purpose being to replace the Centurion tanks in the Swedish Army, the Strv 103 ended up serving alongside it for a number of decades, until it was ultimately decommissioned in the late 1990s. By that time, 290 Strv 103s were built, spanning over five variants.

Media

Skins
Images

  • Strv 103C after firing main gun

  • Strv 103C in forest

Videos
Maximum Swedish Frustration - Strv 103c - JustinPlaysYT
The Strv 103C Main Battle Tank - Orangefan
Tank Chats #117 - Stridsvagn 103 - The Tank Museum

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


AB Bofors
MBTs 
Strv 103  Strv 103-0 · Strv 103A · Strv 103С
Tank Destroyers  SAV 20.12.48 · Bkan 1C
SPAA  Lvkv 42
Radar  VEAK 40
SAM  ASRAD-R*
See Also  BAE Systems AB
  *Saab Bofors Dynamics

Sweden medium tanks
Strv m/42  Lago I · Strv m/42 EH · Ikv 73 · Strv m/42 DT · Pvkv IV
Centurion derivatives  Strv 81 · Strv 81 (RB 52) · Strv 101 · Strv 104 · Strv 105
Strv 103  Strv 103-0 · Strv 103A · Strv 103С
Strv 121/122  Strv 121 · Christian II · Strv 122A · Strv 122B PLSS · Strv 122B+
Other  Sherman III/IV · T 80 U
Finland 
WWII  ▄T-28 · ▄T-34 · ▄Pz.IV · ▄T-34-85
Post War  ▄Comet I · ▄Charioteer Mk VII · ▄T-54 · ▄T-55M · ▄T-72M1 · ▄Leopard 2A4 · ▄Leopard 2A6
Norway  Leopard 1A5NO2

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