Difference between revisions of "T-72M1 (Germany)"

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(Adding most descriptions to T-72M1; history context pending)
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{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=germ_kpz_t72m1
 
|code=germ_kpz_t72m1
−
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
+
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== 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}}''' was the last Warsaw Pact tanks delivered to East Germany as their new spearhead during the 1980s in case for the Cold War turned into a full-scale world war. The variants in NVA were rather complicated but all of these T-72s were either from Soviet Union (T-72 and T-72A) or from Warsaw Pact countries with licensed production variants (T-72M and T-72M1); the current model in-game represents the export/licensed T-72M1 with mostly identical performance to Soviet's T-72A Mod. 1983 (upgraded T-72A with additional plates on UFP which is a researchable upgrade to the [[T-72A]] in-game) after domestic upgrades in East Germany. These tanks didn't see an outbreak of war and were then transferred to Heer for evaluation or for sale.
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' was the final tank delivered to East Germany by the Warsaw Pact during the 1980s, with the intention of it becoming their new spearhead in case the Cold War escalated into a full-scale world war. The NVA used various versions of the T-72, but all of them were either from the Soviet Union (T-72 and T-72A) or from other Warsaw Pact countries with license-produced variants (T-72M and T-72M1). This model represents the export/licensed T-72M1, which had mostly identical performance to the Soviet T-72A Mod. 1983 (an upgraded T-72A with additional plates on the UFP which is a researchable upgrade to the [[T-72A]] in-game) after domestic upgrades were made in East Germany. These tanks were never used in war and were subsequently transferred to the Heer for evaluation or sale.
  
−
Introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]] and currently sitting at the end of the German "Heavy tank" line, players from Soviet Union tech tree will soon get used to the tank thanks to its very similar, if not identical performances; the armor upgrade for T-72A now comes free with T-72M1 in NVA service. While it might not have the agility of NATO MBTs or PLAGF MBTs with better gun handling, T-72M1 will still proves its worthy when lower-tier enemies face it with earlier APFSDS or even APDS- they will have a hard time fighting back.
+
Introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]], players from the Soviet tech tree will soon become accustomed to the tank due to its very similar, if not identical, performance compared to Soviet T-72A: the armour upgrade is now included for free with the T-72M1 in NVA service. Although it may not have the agility of NATO MBTs or the gun handling of PLAGF MBTs, the T-72M1 will still prove its worth against lower-tier enemies who face it with earlier APFSDS or even APDS, as they will have difficulty fighting back.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
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{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
−
The T-72M1 is basically a near identical copy of the T-72A found in the Soviet tech tree, therefore the armour layout is also almost identical. Some differences are the additional applique armour placed on the front glacis which was part of the mid-1980s upgrade. While not substantially thick, the sloping effect on top of the composite front glacis might be enough to prevent some shells from fully penetrating, especially those from lower tier; they will have extremely hard time going through the armor.
+
The T-72M1 is basically a near identical copy of the T-72A found in the Soviet tech tree, therefore the armour layout is also almost identical. Some differences are the additional applique armour placed on the front glacis which was part of the mid-1980s upgrade. While not substantially thick, the sloping effect on top of the composite front glacis might be enough to prevent some shells from fully penetrating, especially those from lower tiers; they will have extremely hard time going through the armour.
  
 
The hull and turret of the T-72M1 are strong enough to somewhat reliably bounce some shells and eat, although it still possesses the same weak spots that most other soviet tanks have (lower front plate, drivers optics, etc.).
 
The hull and turret of the T-72M1 are strong enough to somewhat reliably bounce some shells and eat, although it still possesses the same weak spots that most other soviet tanks have (lower front plate, drivers optics, etc.).
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'''Armour type:'''
 
'''Armour type:'''
  
−
* Cast homogeneous armor (turret)
+
* Cast homogeneous armour (turret)
−
* Rolled homogeneous armor (hull)
+
* Rolled homogeneous armour (hull)
  
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
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! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Hull || 210+16 mm || 80 mm ''Top'' <br>20 mm ''Bottom'' || 40 mm || 20 mm  
+
| Hull || 210+16 mm || 80 mm ''Top'' <br>20 mm ''Bottom'' || 40 mm || 20 mm
 
|-
 
|-
 
| Turret || 200-280 mm Turret front <br>150-400 mm Gun mantlet || 130-240 mm || 60-100 mm || 45 mm
 
| Turret || 200-280 mm Turret front <br>150-400 mm Gun mantlet || 130-240 mm || 60-100 mm || 45 mm
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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.'' -->
−
Due to the late introduction of T-72M1 in NVA service and being the A/M variants, T-72M1 were still powered by the well-known V-46-6 V12 turbocharged diesel engine for these series of T-72s. At up to 780 hp when upgraded with around 19 hp/t power-to-weight ratio, it is nowhere close to the fastest tank in-game, but this still gives considerably more maneuverability over [[M60 (Disambiguation)|M60 family]] or [[Chieftain (Family)|Chieftains]]; another note is the infamous 7F1R gear configuration planetary transmission for post-T-64 tanks where the rather high gear ratio gives T-72 its distinctively slow reverse speed, a lethal flaw that most Soviet/Warsaw-Pact or certain PLAGF tanks share.  
+
As the T-72M1 was introduced late into NVA service and was one of the A/M variants, it continues to be powered by the well-known V-46-6 V12 turbocharged diesel engine used in the previous T-72 series. While this engine provides up to 780 horsepower when upgraded, with around 19 horsepower-to-weight ratio, it is not particularly fast. Nevertheless, it offers considerably more manoeuvrability compared to the [[M60 (Disambiguation)|M60 family]] or [[Chieftain (Family)|Chieftains]]. It is worth noting that the post-T-64 tanks feature a 7F1R planetary gear transmission, which gives the T-72 its distinctively slow reverse speed, a lethal flaw that is shared by most Soviet/Warsaw-Pact and certain PLAGF tanks.
  
 
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,209|rbMinHp=690}}
 
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,209|rbMinHp=690}}
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{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
 
{{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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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|2A46M (125 mm)}}
+
{{main|2A46 (125 mm)}}
  
−
T-72M1 shares the same gun as T-72A and this version of 2A46M was equipped with heat sleeves; due to the export limitations from Soviet Army, ammunitions for T-72A are also the only options for T-72M1 as well. The overall firepower is very sufficient at its tier thanks to its large-caliber at 125 mm (NATO tanks yet to upgrade their MBTs to 120 mm guns) and the penetration is more than enough to handle most enemies it might face at its tier. Do beware of the rather slow turret traverse speed and its fixed 7.1 second reload time- plan your shots very carefully since exposed T-72s are rather fragile to oncoming shells going for the weakspot.
+
The T-72M1 shares the same gun as the T-72A, and this version of the 2A46 was equipped with heat sleeves. Due to export limitations from the Soviet Army, the only ammunition options for the T-72M1 are those used by the T-72A. The overall firepower of the T-72M1 is quite sufficient at its tier, thanks to its large-calibre 125 mm gun (NATO tanks have yet to upgrade their MBTs to 120 mm guns). The penetration is more than enough to handle most enemies it may face. However, it is important to be cautious of the rather slow turret traverse speed and the fixed 7.1 second reload time - plan your shots very carefully since exposed T-72s are rather fragile to incoming shells that aim for their weak spots.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | [[2A46M (125 mm)|125 mm 2A46M]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
+
! colspan="5" | [[2A46 (125 mm)|125 mm 2A46]] || 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" | 44 || rowspan="2" | -6°/+13° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 19.0 || 26.4 || 32.0 || 35.4 || 37.6 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10
+
| rowspan="2" | 44 || rowspan="2" | -6°/+13° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 19.0 || 26.4 || 32.0 || 35.4 || 37.6 || rowspan="2" | 7.10
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
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==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
−
{{:2A46M (125 mm)/Ammunition|3BK12M, 3OF26, 3BM9, 3BM15, 3BM22}}
+
{{:2A46 (125 mm)/Ammunition|3BK12M, 3OF26, 3BM9, 3BM15, 3BM22}}
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
Line 103: Line 103:
 
{{main|NSVT (12.7 mm)|PKT (7.62 mm)}}
 
{{main|NSVT (12.7 mm)|PKT (7.62 mm)}}
  
−
Like its Soviet/Warsaw-Pact counterparts, T-72M1 in NVA service also equipped with NSVT and PKT as its machine guns onboard; the NSVT is good for handling light vehicles or oncoming aircrafts that were within its vertical traverse limits, while PKT is only good for taking out exposed crews of enemy vehicles from lower tier.
+
Similar to its Soviet and Warsaw Pact counterparts, the T-72M1 in NVA service is equipped with NSVT and PKT machine guns. The NSVT is suitable for handling light vehicles or oncoming aircraft within its vertical traverse limits, while the PKT is only useful for taking out exposed crews of enemy vehicles.
  
 
{| 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 || 2000 (250) || 700 || N/A || N/A
+
| Coaxial || 2,000 (250) || 700 || N/A || N/A
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
−
The T-72 series are known to be an economical yet sufficient options for large-scale tank assaults; the T-72M1 in NVA service also shared these points with its Soviet counterparts where its protection and fire will shine over most enemies it might face, while players should also beware of some long-lasting flaws for this series of tanks.
+
The T-72 series is widely known for being an economical yet effective option for large-scale tank assaults. The T-72M1 in NVA service is no exception, sharing many characteristics with its Soviet counterparts. Its armour and firepower are superior to most enemies it might encounter, but there are some persistent flaws in this tank series that players should be aware of.
  
−
T-72M1 is mostly identical to a T-72A Mod. 1983 in Soviet service with its smoke launchers and extra layer of applique armor on UFP which gives more protection to most tanks at its tier, the installation of later 2A46M 125 mm gun also ensures its combat capability against enemy targets at its tier where most tanks at its tier would likely be one-shot by its devastating ammunition. For players who came from Soviet tech tree, they will soon get their hands on T-72M1 thanks to its rather similar performance to T-72A; while for those who take it as an alternative to Bundeswehr MBTs, they would have to opt for a completely new tactic to maximize its efficiency against possible enemies. Instead of the fast and nimble mobility while having insufficient protection, T-72M1 can easily be the complete opposite- it does not have high top speed (at barely 59 km/h; similar to PLAGF tanks and at least 12 km/h slower than Leopard series), but it has the firepower to completely erase enemies from any distance thanks to its LRF and larger-caliber gun, the APFSDS with high muzzle velocity can safely ensure the shell lands on designated targets from afar; while the HEFS shell can sometimes bring surprise kill on enemy MBTs with overpressure damage, let alone light vehicles with minimal protection to explosive shells. Although it can stay afar for sniping, players will have to get used to its rather slow turret traverse speed and fixed magnification gunsight; adjust DPI and mouse sensitivity accordingly in case for sniping. In case of opting for a more aggressive approach, the protection and firepower also ensures its capability to breakthrough defense lines composed by lower-tier tanks; be sure to take cover as soon as possible for a large-scale counter-attack, the flexibility of T-72M1 is nowhere capable to rapid shots upon enemies; delaying their counter attacks and wait for support instead.
+
The T-72M1 is mostly identical to the T-72A Mod. 1983 in Soviet service, featuring the smoke launchers and extra layer of applique armour on the upper front plate (UFP) that provides additional protection against most tanks at its tier. The installation of the later 2A46 125 mm gun also ensures that it can take on enemy targets at its tier with ease, as most tanks at its tier would be one-shot by its devastating ammunition. Players who are familiar with the Soviet tech tree will quickly become accustomed to the T-72M1's similar performance to the T-72A. Those who are using it as an alternative to Bundeswehr MBTs, however, will need to adjust their tactics to maximize its effectiveness against potential enemies. While the T-72M1 lacks the high top speed of tanks like the Leopard series (barely reaching 59 km/h, similar to PLAGF tanks), it has the firepower to obliterate enemies from a distance thanks to its laser rangefinder (LRF) and larger calibre gun. The high muzzle velocity of its APFSDS shell ensures that it lands on designated targets accurately, while its HE-FS shell can sometimes result in surprise kills on enemy MBTs with overpressure damage, not to mention light vehicles with minimal protection. Players should note, however, that the T-72M1's slow turret traverse speed and fixed magnification gunsight can make sniping a challenge. In the event of a more aggressive approach, the T-72M1's protection and firepower make it capable of breaking through defensive lines composed of lower-tier tanks. Players should take cover as soon as possible after a large-scale counterattack, however, as the tank is not capable of rapid shots on enemies. Delaying counterattacks and waiting for support is the best strategy.
  
−
A common issue that haunts T-72 series is the gun traverse speed as mentioned; chances are enemies will take the flanks to hit T-72 from the sides instead- the most fatal destruction it could ever face as this also means the cramped AZ-172 autoloader is completely exposed to enemy shells, a precise hit on is very likely trigger "jack-in-the-box" effect and send the turret sky high, flying up to hundreds of meters away from the hull! Therefore, never ever show the sides to enemies and plan your assaults beforehand, point the tank directly on the enemies for the greatest odds to survive; the well-known driver visor and LFP weakspot sill haunts T-72M1 but chances are enemy shells land on well-protected area with applique armor, be sure not to give the chance to let enemies take good aim on these spots.
+
A common issue that haunts the T-72 series is the gun traverse speed, as previously mentioned. Chances are that enemies will take to the flanks to hit the tank's sides instead, which will result in the most devastating blow it could suffer - the cramped AZ-172 autoloader is completely exposed to enemy shells, and a precise hit on it could trigger a "jack-in-the-box" effect, sending the turret flying hundreds of metres away from the hull. Therefore, players should never show the sides to enemies and should plan their assaults carefully. Directing the tank straight towards the enemies is the best way to increase the odds of survival. The well-known driver visor and LFP weakspot are still vulnerabilities of the T-72M1, but shells will often encounter areas well-protected with the applique armour. Players should avoid giving enemies the opportunity to take aim at these spots.
  
 
=== 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".'' -->'''Pros:'''
+
<!-- ''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:'''
  
 
* Better protection and small profile against enemy tanks
 
* Better protection and small profile against enemy tanks
−
* Large-caliber main cannon with devastating firepower
+
* Large-calibre main cannon with devastating firepower
−
* Better mobility to M60 or Chieftain (in terms of speed) series
+
* Better mobility than M60 or Chieftain series
−
* Commander HMG for taking out light targets/aircrafts
+
* Commander HMG for taking out light targets/aircraft
−
* Equipped with HEFS for overpressure damages against well-covered targets
+
* Equipped with HE-FS for overpressure damage against well-covered targets
−
* Autoloader for constant reload rate and available even during critical scenario (i.e fire onboard, knocked-out crew)  
+
* Autoloader for constant reload rate and available even during critical scenario (i.e fire onboard, knocked-out crew)
−
 
 
−
*
 
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
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* Rather cramped interior with high odds of destruction/fatal damages in case of a penetration
 
* Rather cramped interior with high odds of destruction/fatal damages in case of a penetration
 
* Infamous AZ-172 autoloader with very high chance of detonation when being hit directly
 
* Infamous AZ-172 autoloader with very high chance of detonation when being hit directly
−
* Shares identical weakspots (i.e LFP, driver's visors) to T-72 series
+
* Shares identical weakspots (i.e LFP, driver's visors) to the T-72 series
−
* Slow turret traverse speed, lethal to sudden attacks or flankers
+
* Slow turret traverse speed, vulnerable to sudden attacks or flankers
−
* Mediocre top speed compare to Leopards or AMX-30s  
+
* Mediocre top speed compare to Leopards or AMX-30s
 
* Fixed 8x optical channel with less flexibility to variable magnification optics
 
* Fixed 8x optical channel with less flexibility to variable magnification optics
−
* Lacks commander override for the gun- a hit to gunner very likely means death sentence
+
* Lacks commander override for the gun
−
 
+
* Lacks thermal optics
−
*
 
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
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* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=germ_kpz_t72m1 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=germ_kpz_t72m1 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 +
;Sights
 +
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/post/675135/en/ RideR2's Realistic and semi-realistic gunsight reticles for German vehicles.]
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/post/1043715/en/ Caff_Gunner's (Germany) Historical and semi-historical gun reticles.]
 +
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==

Latest revision as of 17:45, 16 April 2024

Rank 7 USA
F-5C Pack
This page is about the medium tank T-72M1 (Germany). For other versions, see T-72 (Family).
◊T-72M1
germ_kpz_t72m1.png
GarageImage T-72M1 (Germany).jpg
ArtImage T-72M1 (Germany).png
◊T-72M1
Germany flag.png Germany
VI Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
9.3 9.3 9.3
Class:
Research:220 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:620 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The ◊KPz T-72M1 was the final tank delivered to East Germany by the Warsaw Pact during the 1980s, with the intention of it becoming their new spearhead in case the Cold War escalated into a full-scale world war. The NVA used various versions of the T-72, but all of them were either from the Soviet Union (T-72 and T-72A) or from other Warsaw Pact countries with license-produced variants (T-72M and T-72M1). This model represents the export/licensed T-72M1, which had mostly identical performance to the Soviet T-72A Mod. 1983 (an upgraded T-72A with additional plates on the UFP which is a researchable upgrade to the T-72A in-game) after domestic upgrades were made in East Germany. These tanks were never used in war and were subsequently transferred to the Heer for evaluation or sale.

Introduced in Update "Sky Guardians", players from the Soviet tech tree will soon become accustomed to the tank due to its very similar, if not identical, performance compared to Soviet T-72A: the armour upgrade is now included for free with the T-72M1 in NVA service. Although it may not have the agility of NATO MBTs or the gun handling of PLAGF MBTs, the T-72M1 will still prove its worth against lower-tier enemies who face it with earlier APFSDS or even APDS, as they will have difficulty fighting back.

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
Self-entrenching equipment
Creation of ramparts and trenches in soft ground
Armourfront / side / back
Hull110 / 80 / 40
Turret125 / 102 / 65
Crew3 people
Visibility75 %

The T-72M1 is basically a near identical copy of the T-72A found in the Soviet tech tree, therefore the armour layout is also almost identical. Some differences are the additional applique armour placed on the front glacis which was part of the mid-1980s upgrade. While not substantially thick, the sloping effect on top of the composite front glacis might be enough to prevent some shells from fully penetrating, especially those from lower tiers; they will have extremely hard time going through the armour.

The hull and turret of the T-72M1 are strong enough to somewhat reliably bounce some shells and eat, although it still possesses the same weak spots that most other soviet tanks have (lower front plate, drivers optics, etc.).

Armour type:

  • Cast homogeneous armour (turret)
  • Rolled homogeneous armour (hull)
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 210+16 mm 80 mm Top
20 mm Bottom 		40 mm 20 mm
Turret 200-280 mm Turret front
150-400 mm Gun mantlet 		130-240 mm 60-100 mm 45 mm
Cupola 100 mm 100 mm 100 mm 45 mm

Notes:

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB67 / 5 km/h
RB and SB60 / 5 km/h
Number of gears7 forward
1 back
Weight41.5 t
Engine power
AB1 488 hp
RB and SB780 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB35.9 hp/t
RB and SB18.8 hp/t

As the T-72M1 was introduced late into NVA service and was one of the A/M variants, it continues to be powered by the well-known V-46-6 V12 turbocharged diesel engine used in the previous T-72 series. While this engine provides up to 780 horsepower when upgraded, with around 19 horsepower-to-weight ratio, it is not particularly fast. Nevertheless, it offers considerably more manoeuvrability compared to the M60 family or Chieftains. It is worth noting that the post-T-64 tanks feature a 7F1R planetary gear transmission, which gives the T-72 its distinctively slow reverse speed, a lethal flaw that is shared by most Soviet/Warsaw-Pact and certain PLAGF tanks.

Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 67 5 41.5 1,209 1,488 29.13 35.86
Realistic 60 5 690 780 16.63 18.8

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB4 146 → 6 256 Sl icon.png
RB4 106 → 6 195 Sl icon.png
SB5 326 → 8 036 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications185 300 Rp icon.png
305 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 700 Ge icon.png
Crew training175 000 Sl icon.png
Experts620 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 100 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 010 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
160 / 200 / 240 % Sl icon.png
226 / 226 / 226 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
7 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
8 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
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Cost:
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340 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
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Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png
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Transmission
Research:
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Cost:
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500 Ge icon.png
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Engine
Research:
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Cost:
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500 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
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Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods dozer blade.png
Dozer Blade
Research:
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Cost:
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300 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
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Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
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Crew Replenishment
Research:
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Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png
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Smoke grenade
Research:
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Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png
Mods engine smoke screen system.png
ESS
Research:
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Cost:
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500 Ge icon.png
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Horizontal Drive
Research:
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Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
125mm_ussr_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
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Cost:
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300 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
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Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
125mm_ussr_3BM12_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
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Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
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Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png
Mods tank laser rangefinder.png
Laser rangefinder
Research:
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Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png
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Artillery Support
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
500 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
125mm_ussr_3BM15_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
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Cost:
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500 Ge icon.png

Armaments

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

Main armament

125 mm 2A46 cannon
Two-plane stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in two planes while moving
Autoloader
Automatically feeds projectiles into the breech. The speed does not depend on the skills of the loader
Ammunition44 rounds
First-order22 rounds
Reload7.1 s
Vertical guidance-6° / 13°
Main article: 2A46 (125 mm)

The T-72M1 shares the same gun as the T-72A, and this version of the 2A46 was equipped with heat sleeves. Due to export limitations from the Soviet Army, the only ammunition options for the T-72M1 are those used by the T-72A. The overall firepower of the T-72M1 is quite sufficient at its tier, thanks to its large-calibre 125 mm gun (NATO tanks have yet to upgrade their MBTs to 120 mm guns). The penetration is more than enough to handle most enemies it may face. However, it is important to be cautious of the rather slow turret traverse speed and the fixed 7.1 second reload time - plan your shots very carefully since exposed T-72s are rather fragile to incoming shells that aim for their weak spots.

125 mm 2A46 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Autoloader
Arcade 44 -6°/+13° ±180° Two-plane 19.0 26.4 32.0 35.4 37.6 7.10
Realistic 11.9 14.0 17.0 18.8 20.0

Ammunition

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
3BK12M HEATFS 440 440 440 440 440 440
3OF26 HE 42 42 42 42 42 42
3BM9 APFSDS 321 317 303 285 268 249
3BM15 APFSDS 440 430 420 410 405 400
3BM22 APFSDS 425 420 415 405 393 380
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%
3BK12M HEATFS 905 19 0.05 0.1 2.06 65° 72° 77°
3OF26 HE 850 23 0.3 0.1 5.24 79° 80° 81°
3BM9 APFSDS 1,800 3.6 - - - 72° 76° 78°
3BM15 APFSDS 1,780 3.88 - - - 76° 77° 80°
3BM22 APFSDS 1,760 4.83 - - - 76° 77° 80°

Ammo racks

Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
44 40 (+4) 29 (+15) 23 (+21) 1 (+43) No

Machine guns

12.7 mm NSVT machine gun
Ammunition300 rounds
Belt capacity60 rounds
Reload5.0 s
Fire rate700 shots/min
Vertical guidance-4° / 75°
7.62 mm PKT machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition2 000 rounds
Belt capacity250 rounds
Reload8.0 s
Fire rate700 shots/min
Main articles: NSVT (12.7 mm), PKT (7.62 mm)

Similar to its Soviet and Warsaw Pact counterparts, the T-72M1 in NVA service is equipped with NSVT and PKT machine guns. The NSVT is suitable for handling light vehicles or oncoming aircraft within its vertical traverse limits, while the PKT is only useful for taking out exposed crews of enemy vehicles.

12.7 mm NSVT
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Pintle 300 (60) 700 -4°/+75° ±180°
7.62 mm PKT
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 2,000 (250) 700 N/A N/A

Usage in battles

The T-72 series is widely known for being an economical yet effective option for large-scale tank assaults. The T-72M1 in NVA service is no exception, sharing many characteristics with its Soviet counterparts. Its armour and firepower are superior to most enemies it might encounter, but there are some persistent flaws in this tank series that players should be aware of.

The T-72M1 is mostly identical to the T-72A Mod. 1983 in Soviet service, featuring the smoke launchers and extra layer of applique armour on the upper front plate (UFP) that provides additional protection against most tanks at its tier. The installation of the later 2A46 125 mm gun also ensures that it can take on enemy targets at its tier with ease, as most tanks at its tier would be one-shot by its devastating ammunition. Players who are familiar with the Soviet tech tree will quickly become accustomed to the T-72M1's similar performance to the T-72A. Those who are using it as an alternative to Bundeswehr MBTs, however, will need to adjust their tactics to maximize its effectiveness against potential enemies. While the T-72M1 lacks the high top speed of tanks like the Leopard series (barely reaching 59 km/h, similar to PLAGF tanks), it has the firepower to obliterate enemies from a distance thanks to its laser rangefinder (LRF) and larger calibre gun. The high muzzle velocity of its APFSDS shell ensures that it lands on designated targets accurately, while its HE-FS shell can sometimes result in surprise kills on enemy MBTs with overpressure damage, not to mention light vehicles with minimal protection. Players should note, however, that the T-72M1's slow turret traverse speed and fixed magnification gunsight can make sniping a challenge. In the event of a more aggressive approach, the T-72M1's protection and firepower make it capable of breaking through defensive lines composed of lower-tier tanks. Players should take cover as soon as possible after a large-scale counterattack, however, as the tank is not capable of rapid shots on enemies. Delaying counterattacks and waiting for support is the best strategy.

A common issue that haunts the T-72 series is the gun traverse speed, as previously mentioned. Chances are that enemies will take to the flanks to hit the tank's sides instead, which will result in the most devastating blow it could suffer - the cramped AZ-172 autoloader is completely exposed to enemy shells, and a precise hit on it could trigger a "jack-in-the-box" effect, sending the turret flying hundreds of metres away from the hull. Therefore, players should never show the sides to enemies and should plan their assaults carefully. Directing the tank straight towards the enemies is the best way to increase the odds of survival. The well-known driver visor and LFP weakspot are still vulnerabilities of the T-72M1, but shells will often encounter areas well-protected with the applique armour. Players should avoid giving enemies the opportunity to take aim at these spots.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Better protection and small profile against enemy tanks
  • Large-calibre main cannon with devastating firepower
  • Better mobility than M60 or Chieftain series
  • Commander HMG for taking out light targets/aircraft
  • Equipped with HE-FS for overpressure damage against well-covered targets
  • Autoloader for constant reload rate and available even during critical scenario (i.e fire onboard, knocked-out crew)

Cons:

  • Rather cramped interior with high odds of destruction/fatal damages in case of a penetration
  • Infamous AZ-172 autoloader with very high chance of detonation when being hit directly
  • Shares identical weakspots (i.e LFP, driver's visors) to the T-72 series
  • Slow turret traverse speed, vulnerable to sudden attacks or flankers
  • Mediocre top speed compare to Leopards or AMX-30s
  • Fixed 8x optical channel with less flexibility to variable magnification optics
  • Lacks commander override for the gun
  • Lacks thermal optics

History

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Media

Skins
Sights


See also

Related development

External links

Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:

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


Germany medium tanks
Pz.III  Pz.III B · Pz.III E · Pz.III F · Pz.III J · Pz.III J1 · Pz.III J1 TD · Pz.III L · Pz.III M · Pz.III N
Pz.IV  Pz.IV C · Pz.IV E · Pz.IV F1 · Pz.IV F2 · Pz.IV G · Pz.IV H · Pz.IV J · Pz.Bef.Wg.IV J
Pz.V  VK 3002 (M) · Panther A · Panther D · Panther F · Panther G · Ersatz M10 · Panther II
M48 upgrades  M48A2 G A2 · M48 Super
Leopard 1  Leopard I · Leopard A1A1 · Leopard A1A1 (L/44) · Leopard 1A5 · C2A1 · Turm III
Leopard 2  PT-16/T14 mod. · Leopard 2K · Leopard 2AV
  Leopard 2A4 · Leopard 2 (PzBtl 123) · Leopard 2A4M · Leopard 2 PL · Leopard 2A5 · Leopard 2 PSO · Leopard 2A6 · Leopard 2A7V
Trophies  ▀M4 748 (a) · ▀T 34 747 (r)
Other  Nb.Fz. · KPz-70
USA  mKPz M47 G · M48A2 C
USSR  ◊T-72M1

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