Difference between revisions of "AMX-32"

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{{Specs-Card|code=fr_amx_32}}
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{{About
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| about = French medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
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| usage = the other version
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| link = AMX-32 (105)
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}}
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{{Specs-Card
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|code=fr_amx_32
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
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}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
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[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
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The '''AMX-32 P2''' is the second prototype subvariant of the AMX-32, which is the third variant of the [[AMX-30 (Family)|AMX-30 main battle tank family]]. Similar to the [[AMX-32 (105)|AMX-32 P1]], it was co-developed in the late 1970s during the Cold War by Ateliers de Construction d'Issy-les-Moulineaux and Atelier de Construction de Puteaux as an export tank to fulfil a particular market niche of nations with limited defence resources. This is the second subvariant, and it is distinguished by its 120 mm GIAT CN120-25 G1 tank gun, as opposed to the 105 mm CN-105-F1 tank gun on the first subvariant AMX-32 P1. In addition, the design of the hull front was changed to enhance ballistic protection. The combat weight of the AMX-32 P2 was increased to 40 tonnes as a result of the preceding modifications.
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{{Break}}
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} French medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]]. An improved version of the AMX-30, it gets an upgraded gun, an upgraded engine, and spaced armor giving additional protection and advantages on the battlefield.
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Introduced in [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]], the AMX-32 P2 has substantial advantages over its predecessor, the AMX-30 P1. It has an improved primary armament as well as a better gun mantlet, which gives it more protection and capabilities on the battlefield. In general, the AMX-32 P2 outperforms all previous variants of the AMX-30 main combat tank. It is effective in ambushes and as a long-range sniper. Due to an increase in calibre for the main tank gun, the AMX-32 P2 possesses much more firepower than the AMX-32 P1. The AMX-32 P2 has outstanding ammunition for its rank, and as long as players understand the enemy's weak spots and armour arrangement, it is capable of destroying any tank in a frontal attack.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
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The AMX-32 is protected by spaced armor on the lower glacis (50mm RHA, 100mm air, 79mm RHA) and the mantlet (25mm RHA, 140mm air, 35mm RHA), respectively. An improved version of the AMX-30, the tank was built for mobility, not armor. The spaced armor will prevent some spalling of HEAT shells, and will nullify any HESH shells. The upper glacis plate is sloped at 81 degrees, meaning almost all incoming rounds will ricochet, often into the turret and damaging the breech and even the turret crew. Overall, in terms of armor, the AMX-32 has enough armor to absorb at most 2-4 shots before being knocked out. The spaced armor is useful in countering HESH and some HEAT shells, but its armor should never be relied on or overestimated.
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{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
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<!-- ''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 AMX-32 is protected by spaced armour on the lower glacis (50 mm RHA, 100 mm air, 79 mm RHA) and the mantlet (25 mm RHA, 140 mm air, 35 mm RHA), respectively. An improved version of the AMX-30, the tank was built for mobility, not armour. The spaced armour will prevent some spalling of HEAT shells and will nullify any HESH shells. The upper glacis plate is sloped at 81 degrees, meaning almost all incoming rounds will ricochet, often into the turret and damaging the breech and even the turret crew. Overall, in terms of armour, the AMX-32 has enough armour to absorb at most 2-4 shots before being knocked out. The spaced armour is useful in countering HESH and some HEAT shells, but its armour should never be relied on or overestimated.
 +
 
 +
'''Armour type:'''
 +
 
 +
* Rolled homogeneous armour (hull, turret, cupola) - abbreviated as RHA
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
|-
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! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
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|-
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| Hull || 35 mm (81°) ''Upper glacis'' <br> 35 mm (36-66°) ''Driver viewport'' <br> 79 mm (81°) + 50 mm ''Lower glacis - Top'' <br> 79 mm (81°) + 50 mm  (36°) ''Lower glacis - Bottom'' <br> 25 mm (79°) ''Belly glacis'' <br> 57 mm (35°) ''Hull over tracks'' || 5 mm (35°) + 30 mm ''Top - Front'' <br> 57 mm (35°) ''Top - Hull widening'' <br> 35 mm (35°) ''Top - Centre'' <br> 30 mm ''Top - Rear'' <br> 30 mm ''Bottom'' <br> 25 mm (70°) ''Belly'' || 30 mm (15°) ''Upper plate'' <br> 30 mm ''Hull over the tracks'' <br> 30 mm ''Lower plate'' <br> 25 mm (71°) ''Belly'' || 35 mm (9°) ''Front glacis'' <br> 15 mm ''Rear'' <br> 5 mm ''Radiator vents''
 +
|-
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| Turret || 35+50 mm (cylindrical) ''Turret front'' <br> 50 mm + 35+25 mm (19°) ''Gun mantlet'' <br> 50 mm + 25 mm (19°) ''MG port'' <br> 15 mm + 35+50 mm (cylindrical) ''Optics port - right side''|| 35+35 mm (18°) ''Gun mantlet - Gunner side'' <br> 15-25 mm (18°) ''Gun mantlet - Optics side'' <br> 50 mm (17°) ''Turret - Front'' <br> 41.5 mm (17-18°) ''Turret - Centre'' <br> 25 mm (18°) ''Turret - Rear'' || 30 mm <br> 40 mm (cylindrical) ''Turret ring'' || 35 mm (9°) ''Gun mantlet'' <br> 20 mm (8°) ''Front'' <br> 20 mm ''Centre'' <br> 15 mm (8°) ''Rear''
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|-
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| Cupola || 35 mm (cylindrical) || 35 mm (cylindrical) ''Base'' <br> 30 mm (cylindrical) ''Viewports'' || 35 mm (cylindrical) || 35 mm ''Outer ring'' <br> 20 mm ''Centre''
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|-
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|}
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 +
'''Notes:'''
 +
 
 +
* The suspension wheels and the tracks are 20 mm thick.
 +
* Belly armour is 25 mm thick.
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* Spaced armour is located on the turret front and the front lower glacis:
  
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Additional note:
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{| class="wikitable"
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|-
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! Spaced armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides
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|-
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| Hull || '''Lower glacis:''' <br> 50 mm (81°) ''RHA'' <br> 100 mm ''Air'' <br> 79 mm (81°) ''RHA'' || N/A
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|-
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| Turret || '''Gun mantlet/Turret front:''' <br> 25 mm (19°) ''RHA'' <br> 140 mm ''Air'' <br> 35 mm (19°) ''RHA'' || '''Gun mantlet - Gunner side:''' <br> 35 mm (18°) ''RHA'' <br> 50 mm ''Air'' <br> 35 mm (18°) ''RHA''
 +
|-
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|}
  
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* Belly armor is 25mm thick.
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* The values in the table above are not to be added to the armour values present in the first table as they only describe the layout of spaced armour.
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* Side armor is 35mm thick, with composite screens (25mm) on the sides
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* The spaced armour does not cover the MG port.
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
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The AMX-32 is powered by a Hispano-Suiza HS-110-2-SR engine rated at 800hp @ 2500RPM,  with a transmission providing seven forward gears and two reverse gears, similar to the transmission from the AMX-30. Like the AMX-30, the AMX-32's top speed is 65kph/40mph forward, but the AMX-32 goes 3.9kph/2.4mph faster in reverse thanks to its upgraded engine. The AMX-32 was designed with mobility in mind, and it does just that. It is slower than the AMX-40, but still holds its ground against more sluggish tanks, especially British and Russian vehicles at its BR. However, it should not be overestimated, as tanks such as the KPz-70 will outmatch your mobility anywhere. In an uptier, even more if not all tanks will outperform you in terms of mobility.<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
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{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
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<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
  
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{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 1240|rbMinHp= 708}}
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{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,240|rbMinHp=708}}
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 +
The AMX-32 is powered by a Hispano-Suiza HS-110-2-SR engine rated at 800hp @ 2500RPM, with a transmission providing seven forward gears and two reverse gears, similar to the transmission from the AMX-30. Like the AMX-30, the AMX-32's top speed is 65 km/h (40 mph) forward, but the AMX-32 goes 3.9 km/h (2.4 mph) faster in reverse thanks to its upgraded engine. The AMX-32 was designed with mobility in mind, and it does just that. It is slower than the AMX-40, but still holds its ground against more sluggish tanks, especially British and Soviet vehicles at its BR. However, it should not be overestimated, as tanks such as the KPz-70 will outmatch your mobility anywhere. In an uptier, even more if not all tanks will outperform you in terms of mobility.
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=== Modifications and economy ===
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{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
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=== Main armament (CN-120-25 G1) ===
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{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
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The AMX-32 is armed with the GIAT CN-120-25 G1, the same 120mm smoothbore gun found on the AMX-40. It also shares the same ammunition. The stock OCC 120 G1 is a HEAT warhead capable of penetrating 480mm of non-angled RHA at any distance. At modification tier 4, the option to research the OFL 120 G1 becomes available. It is an APFSDS shell with 394mm of penetration, giving plenty of kinetic power for its BR. The HEAT shell also holds its ground, and nearly always one-shots any vehicles that hull break, but be wary of your battle rating, as at 9.3, uptiers facing the top dogs at 10.3 are imminent. ''All'' tanks at that battle rating have excellent chemical protection, so side and gun breech shots may be your only option. The CN-120 is a great weapon for its BR, and its APFSDS can penetrate any tank in the game frontally, if you have enough knowledge of weak spots and armor layout.
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=== Main armament ===
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{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
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<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
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{{main|GIAT CN120-25 G1 (120 mm)}}
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The AMX-32 is armed with the GIAT CN120-25 G1, the same 120 mm smoothbore gun found on the AMX-40. It also shares the same ammunition. The stock OCC 120 G1 is a HEAT warhead capable of penetrating 480 mm of non-angled RHA at any distance. At modification tier 4, the option to research the OFL 120 G1 becomes available. It is an APFSDS shell with 394 mm of penetration, giving plenty of kinetic power for its BR. The HEAT shell also holds its ground, and nearly always knocks out any vehicles that is vulnerable to overpressure, but be wary of your battle rating, as, at its BR, up-tiers facing the top dogs are imminent. All tanks at that battle rating have excellent chemical protection, so side and gun breech shots may be your only option. The CN-120 is a great weapon for its BR, and its APFSDS can penetrate any tank in the game frontally if you have enough knowledge of weak spots and armour layout.
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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|-
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! colspan="5" | [[GIAT CN120-25 G1 (120 mm)|120 mm GIAT CN120-25 G1]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
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|-
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! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
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! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
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! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
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|-
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! ''Arcade''
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| rowspan="2" | 38 || rowspan="2" | -8°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 23.8 || 32.9 || 40.0 || 44.2 || 47.1 || rowspan="2" | 8.71 || rowspan="2" | 7.70 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 6.70
 +
|-
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! ''Realistic''
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| 14.9 || 17.5 || 21.3 || 23.5 || 25.0
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|-
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|}
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==== Ammunition ====
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{{:GIAT CN120-25 G1 (120 mm)/Ammunition|OCC 120 G1, OFL 120 G1}}
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 +
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
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[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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|-
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! Full<br>ammo
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! 1st<br>rack empty
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! 2nd<br>rack empty
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! Visual<br>discrepancy
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|-
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| '''38''' || 18&nbsp;''(+20)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+37)'' || No
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|-
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|}
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'''Notes''':
 +
 
 +
* Recommended ammo load is 18&nbsp;''(+20)'' shells. This will leave the hull rack empty and the ready rack filled.
 +
* Rack 2 is a ready rack, and takes priority in being filled at the beginning of the battle. It is also emptied first.
 +
* Full reload speed will be realized as long as ammo exists in the ready rack. If the ready rack is empty, a penalty to reload speed will occur.
 +
* Simply not firing when the main gun is loaded will load ammo from rack 1 into rack 2 as long as there is ammo in rack 1. Firing the main gun will interrupt the reloading of the ready rack.
 +
 
 +
The CN120-25 G1 cannon fires single-piece ammunition from two stowages, the first order rack found in the rear of the turret, and the rack located in the hull front to the right of the driver. It takes the loader about 13 seconds to restock a round into the ready rack from the hull rack.
 +
 
 +
<!--==== Optics and night vision ====
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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! colspan="7" | {{PAGENAME}} [[Optics]]
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|-
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! rowspan="3" |Type of optic
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! rowspan="3" |Magnification
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! colspan="5" |[[Night Vision Devices]]
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|-
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! colspan="3" |Image Intensifier
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! rowspan="2" |{{Annotation|Thermal Imager<br>Resolution|The higher the resolution the clearer and more detailed the image is}}
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! rowspan="2" |Notes
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|-
 +
! {{Annotation|Resolution|The higher the resolution the clearer and more detailed the image is}}
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! {{Annotation|Light Mult|By how much the image intensifier amplifies the existing light, primarily useful for comparing image intensifiers}}
 +
! {{Annotation|Noise Level|How much noise is present in the image (how grainy the image is)}}
 +
|-
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! Gunner's Sight
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| X8.9 - X10.1 || - || - || - || 500 x 300 || Thermal imager unlocked by "NVD" modification (tier 4)
 +
|-
 +
! Commander's View
 +
| X6 || 1600 x 1200 || 9.0 || High || Not Fitted || Image intensifier unlocked by "NVD" modification (tier 4)
 +
|-
 +
! Driver's View
 +
| X1 || 800 x 600 || 5.0 || High || Not Fitted || Image intensifier unlocked by "NVD" modification (tier 4)
 +
|-
 +
|}-->
  
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=== Additional armament (20F2/M693 automatic cannon) ===
+
=== Machine guns ===
−
The 20F2 (French designation of M693) automatic cannon is mounted in tandem with the CN-120 in the turret mantlet. Players who have played the AMX-30 (1972) in Tier V will already know the capabilities of this weapon. Similarly to the Rh202 cannon found on the MBT/KPz-70, it exceeds at quickly taking out not only light tanks and SPAA, but also cannon barrels, a vital ability that gives the AMX-32 the upper hand in one-on-one combat. If the enemy tank fires at you and hits or misses, you are able to overextend, destroy the cannon barrel with the 20mm, and safely engage the tank with your 120mm. Lightly armored tanks, IFV's, and anti-aircraft vehicles will be quickly taken care of by the 20F2.  
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{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
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{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}
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<!-- ''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|20F2 (20 mm)|A-A-F1N (7.62 mm)}}
  
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=== Machine gun (A-A-F1N) ===
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The 20F2 (French designation of M693) automatic cannon is mounted in tandem with the CN-120 in the turret mantlet. Players who have played the AMX-30 (1972) in Rank V will already know the capabilities of this weapon. Similarly to the [[Rh202 (20 mm)|Rh202]] cannon found on the MBT/KPz-70, it excels at quickly taking out not only light tanks and SPAA, but also cannon barrels, a vital ability that gives the AMX-32 the upper hand in one-on-one combat. If the enemy tank fires at you and hits or misses, you are able to overextend, destroy the cannon barrel with the 20 mm, and safely engage the tank with your 120 mm. Lightly armoured tanks, IFVs, and anti-aircraft vehicles will be quickly taken care of by the 20F2.
−
The 7.62mm A-A-F1N cannon is mounted on the commander's fully traversable hatch. It is helpful in engaging helicopters which are too high for the 20mm cannon's elevation limits. It is overshadowed by the 20F2, but is useful nonetheless, especially for taking out those pesky Balloons on the Normandy tank map.
+
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
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|-
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! colspan="5" | [[20F2 (20 mm)|20 mm 20F2]]
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|-
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! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
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|-
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| Coaxial || 500 (500) || 740 || 0°/+20° || N/A
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|-
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|}
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The 7.62 mm AAN-F1 machine gun is mounted on the commander's fully traversable hatch. It is helpful in engaging helicopters which are too high for the 20 mm cannon's elevation limits. It is overshadowed by the 20F2, but is useful nonetheless, especially for taking out those pesky Balloons on the Normandy tank map.
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 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
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|-
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! colspan="5" | [[A-A-F1N (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm A-A-F1N]]
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|-
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! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
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|-
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| Pintle || 2,200 (100) || 900 || -10°/+40° || ±120°
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|-
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|}
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
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The AMX-32 plays similarly to the AMX-30 in battles. It can be played effectively in ambushes, as a sniper (with its rangefinder and thermal optics), and use cover to the utmost advantage. With the gun stabilizer, you are able to poke out of cover, shoot, and retreat. This is especially useful when sniping, and using "leap frog" tactics with a friendly vehicle. In the latter case, when the enemy shoots, move out of cover and take a shot, and if you want, use your 20mm cannon to destroy their cannon barrel. Do not rely on your armor though, as most if not all shots WILL penetrate and make quick work of you. Players must make sure that they either make the enemy shoot and miss or get the first shot off on said enemy. This applies only in one-on-one combat, if both the enemy and the AMX-32 see each other. If more than one tank is waiting for you, either retreat and make them come to you, try baiting or flanking, or get a friend to help. On the other hand, being able to shoot and then remove their main means of retaliating via the auto cannon proves extremely useful, especially in an ambush. All in all, the AMX-32 is a very capable tank that can quickly return several enemies to the hangar without receiving major damage, if played right
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<!-- ''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).'' -->
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 +
The AMX-32 plays similarly to the AMX-30 in battles. It can be played effectively in ambushes, as a sniper (with its rangefinder and thermal optics), and use cover to the utmost advantage. With the gun stabilizer, you are able to poke out of cover, shoot, and retreat. This is especially useful when sniping, and using "leapfrog" tactics with a friendly vehicle. In the latter case, when the enemy shoots, move out of cover and take a shot, and if you want, use your 20 mm cannon to destroy their cannon barrel. Do not rely on your armour though, as most if not all shots WILL penetrate and make quick work of you. Players must make sure that they either make the enemy shoot and miss or get the first shot off on said enemy. This applies only in one-on-one combat if both the enemy and the AMX-32 see each other. If more than one tank is waiting for you, either retreat and make them come to you, try baiting or flanking, or get a friend to help. On the other hand, being able to shoot and then remove their main means of retaliating via the autocannon proves extremely useful, especially in an ambush. All in all, the AMX-32 is a very capable tank that can quickly return several enemies to the hangar without receiving major damage, if played right.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
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<!-- ''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:'''
  
Line 41: Line 188:
 
* Good mobility and reverse speed
 
* Good mobility and reverse speed
 
* The gun has a two-plane stabilizer, thermal optics, and a laser rangefinder
 
* The gun has a two-plane stabilizer, thermal optics, and a laser rangefinder
−
 
−
*
 
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Lackluster armor protection, especially against kinetic shells
+
* Lacklustre armour protection, especially against kinetic shells
−
* Longer reload than other tanks at its BR
+
* Longer reload than other tanks at its battle rating
 
* The tank's mobility can and will be outmatched, especially in an uptier
 
* The tank's mobility can and will be outmatched, especially in an uptier
  
−
*
+
== 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).'' -->
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 +
As soon as the AMX-30B entered service in 1966, it was clear that it would not be able to face the newly introduced Soviet T-64 tank and, as a result, would need to be replaced or dramatically improved over the course of its serviceable life. Therefore, improvements had to be incorporated into the design to keep it competitive. Various development programs saw light at the end of the 1960s and all were ultimately meant to be incorporated into the AMX-30. These improvements had to improve the characteristics of the tank in the three main defining MBT traits: firepower, mobility, and armour, with the company GIAT being the project manager of all studies that were to be undertaken. 
 +
 
 +
* The EFAB (Etablissement de la fabrique d'arme de Bourges/Weapon manufacturing facility of Bourges) were to improve the firepower of the tank.
 +
* AMX-APX were to improve the armour of the tank.
 +
* Hispano-Suiza and SESM (today RENK France) company were to improve the mobility of the tank.
 +
* SFIM were to improve the optic/optronic suite of the tank.
 +
 
 +
In the meantime, AMX-APX started a private project whose goal was to develop a new tank based on the AMX-30 to replace it until a French 3rd generation tank would be available. This tank was named AMX-32 and its development started in 1975 with the first prototype being ready in 1977. The tank at this time featured a rebuilt AMX-30 hull with spaced high hardness RHA armour at the front of the hull as well as a new FCS control system named COTAC introduced 2 years earlier on the AMX-10RC coupled to a new electrohydraulic turret powering unit called ATS GS 32, a fully rotating stabilized panoramicsight with a 2nd generation light intensifier at the disposal of the commander called M527 designed by the SFIM, a semi automatic gearbox ENC200 minerva with torque converter, and a DI VT 13 2nd generation light intensifying camera. The new tank was also capable of firing on the move thanks to the M527 commander panoramic sights whose stabilized mirror gyroscopes were able to send inputs to the tank gun servos, thus stabilizing it on both axis when the commander used its priority controls over the turret. 
 +
 
 +
AMX-APX tried to sell this new tank to the French Army but the price was found to be prohibitive for what was thought to be replaced in less than 10 years. Therefore, it was decided that the project should be solely dedicated to the export market. GIAT was not satisfied with the first version of the tank. If it had to attract foreign customers, this tank could not afford to be just a more expensive French Leopard 1A4 clone which already had a very good reputation and could be acquired for a fairly low price. It was decided that the AMX-32 had to become the best 2.5 generation MBT if it was to have a chance to be sold.
 +
 
 +
Therefore, GIAT ordered that new improvements had to be made, especially in the protection and firepower department, so they assigned the EFAB to the design of a larger, better protected turret capable of housing the soon to become CN120-25 L/52 120 mm smoothbore cannon originally intended for the EPC program (Engin Principal de Combat/Main Combat Vehicle program eventually resulting in the AMX Leclerc). In less than 2 years the turret was ready as well as a new turret for the more basic 105 mm gun. These two turrets had similar layouts and protection levels, only the gun mantlet as well as the position of the night vision device were different, and were both showcased at SATORY 1981. The 120 mm version was also proposed with a boosted HS 110-2-SR developing 800 HP in order to keep the HP/ton ratio around 20. The two versions of the tank attracted a lot of interest but ultimately, no orders were ever placed. Despite probably being the best modernized second generation tank of its time, the niche market of modernized 2nd generation MBTs was simply too tight for this tank to fit with modernized Leopard 1's and M60's monopolizing said market. GIAT tried once again with the AMX-40, this time being a completely new tank which was better protected and much more mobile, rivaling M1's and Leopard 2's in mobility and firepower. However, it encountered no more success than the AMX-32. The AMX-32 was proposed for the last time on the export market in 1985 before being replaced by the AMX-40 until 1990.
 +
 
 +
Despite the tank failing to attract customers, a lot of what was put into it was used to modernize the AMX-30, which would become the AMX-30B2, as well as in the EPC program, most notably in the FCS department.
 +
 
 +
Retrospectively, the French Army made a mistake by not buying this tank at all, as well as the AMX-40. The EPC program came much later than expected, leaving them with totally obsolete tanks in the late 1980s, and it is possible that the refusal to adopt the tank domestically further harmed the little chance it had of appealing to foreign customers. That being said, this tank represents a real milestone in French tank development history.
 +
 
 +
=== [[wt:en/news/6601-development-amx-32-further-improvements-en|Devblog]] ===
 +
Development of the AMX-32 began in 1975 as a private venture of AMX, in hopes of attracting the interest of foreign customers, which are already using the AMX-30. The new vehicle was intended to offer better protection than the base model, in addition to several other improvements in various areas in order to spark the interest of international customers.
  
−
== History ==
+
The first prototype of the AMX-32, fitted with a 105 mm gun, was unveiled in 1979, followed soon after by the presentation of the second prototype in 1981, armed with a 120 mm cannon. However, despite the improvements offered over the base model, the AMX-32 attracted no interest from neither foreign customers nor from the French military, the latter of which more favored the notion of modernizing its existing fleet of AMX-30s, rather than procuring a new vehicle.
−
During the late 1970's, an improved version of the AMX-30 designated AMX-32 was developed. With a new fire control system, welded turret, and composite armor, the AMX-32 was to be a private export tank affordable and fitting for nations with small defense budgets. It was to be armed with either a 105mm or 120mm gun, and have either a 720hp or 800 hp engine, interchangeable to fit various budgets. No production orders were made; as a result, the AMX-32 project ultimately failed.
+
 
 +
After only a handful of prototypes were built, further development was soon afterwards cancelled due to lacking interest. However, although the AMX-32 never became a success itself, many of the features that it incorporated and experiences gained during its construction were carried over the subsequent projects, such as the AMX-40 and modernization projects of its predecessor - the AMX-30.
  
 
== 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=fr_amx_32 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
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;Images
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<gallery mode="packed" heights="150">
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File:AMX-32 WTWallpaper 01.jpg|
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File:AMX-32 WTWallpaper 02.jpg|
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File:AMX-32 WTWallpaper 03.jpg|
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File:AMX-32 WTWallpaper 04.jpg|
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File:AMX-32 WTWallpaper 05.jpg|
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File:AMX-32 WTWallpaper 06.jpg|
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</gallery>
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;Videos
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{{Youtube-gallery|wJkQW4kSJjM|'''French MBTs''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 5:02 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|rgBE-namY8E|'''The Shooting Range #210''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:48 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|Ng0JyfV-504|'''{{PAGENAME}} - The Budget Baguette''' - ''JustinPlaysYT''|yp5L9E7WZ48|'''{{PAGENAME}} - Tank Review''' - ''Napalmratte''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
+
<!-- ''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.'' -->
  
−
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
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;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role
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* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
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* [[Leopard 2K]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
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<!--Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:
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<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
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* ''encyclopedia page on the tank;''
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* ''other literature.'' -->
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* ''other literature.''-->
 
  
 
* [[wt:en/news/6601-development-amx-32-further-improvements-en|[Devblog] AMX-32: Further Improvements]]
 
* [[wt:en/news/6601-development-amx-32-further-improvements-en|[Devblog] AMX-32: Further Improvements]]
 +
* [[wikipedia:AMX-32|[Wikipedia] AMX-32]]
  
 +
{{TankManufacturer AMX}}
 
{{France medium tanks}}
 
{{France medium tanks}}

Latest revision as of 06:45, 15 October 2023

RANK 5 FRANCE
Somua SM PACK
This page is about the French medium tank AMX-32. For the other version, see AMX-32 (105).
AMX-32
fr_amx_32.png
GarageImage AMX-32.jpg
AMX-32
France flag.png France
VI Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
9.3 9.3 9.3
Class:
Research:110 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:620 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The AMX-32 P2 is the second prototype subvariant of the AMX-32, which is the third variant of the AMX-30 main battle tank family. Similar to the AMX-32 P1, it was co-developed in the late 1970s during the Cold War by Ateliers de Construction d'Issy-les-Moulineaux and Atelier de Construction de Puteaux as an export tank to fulfil a particular market niche of nations with limited defence resources. This is the second subvariant, and it is distinguished by its 120 mm GIAT CN120-25 G1 tank gun, as opposed to the 105 mm CN-105-F1 tank gun on the first subvariant AMX-32 P1. In addition, the design of the hull front was changed to enhance ballistic protection. The combat weight of the AMX-32 P2 was increased to 40 tonnes as a result of the preceding modifications.

Introduced in Update 1.97 "Viking Fury", the AMX-32 P2 has substantial advantages over its predecessor, the AMX-30 P1. It has an improved primary armament as well as a better gun mantlet, which gives it more protection and capabilities on the battlefield. In general, the AMX-32 P2 outperforms all previous variants of the AMX-30 main combat tank. It is effective in ambushes and as a long-range sniper. Due to an increase in calibre for the main tank gun, the AMX-32 P2 possesses much more firepower than the AMX-32 P1. The AMX-32 P2 has outstanding ammunition for its rank, and as long as players understand the enemy's weak spots and armour arrangement, it is capable of destroying any tank in a frontal attack.

General info

Survivability and armour

Smoke grenades
Creation of a smoke screen in front of the vehicle
ESS
Creation of a smoke screen in the direction of movement of the vehicle
Armourfront / side / back
Hull129 / 35 / 30
Turret70 / 41 / 25
Crew4 people
Visibility121 %

The AMX-32 is protected by spaced armour on the lower glacis (50 mm RHA, 100 mm air, 79 mm RHA) and the mantlet (25 mm RHA, 140 mm air, 35 mm RHA), respectively. An improved version of the AMX-30, the tank was built for mobility, not armour. The spaced armour will prevent some spalling of HEAT shells and will nullify any HESH shells. The upper glacis plate is sloped at 81 degrees, meaning almost all incoming rounds will ricochet, often into the turret and damaging the breech and even the turret crew. Overall, in terms of armour, the AMX-32 has enough armour to absorb at most 2-4 shots before being knocked out. The spaced armour is useful in countering HESH and some HEAT shells, but its armour should never be relied on or overestimated.

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour (hull, turret, cupola) - abbreviated as RHA
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 35 mm (81°) Upper glacis
35 mm (36-66°) Driver viewport
79 mm (81°) + 50 mm Lower glacis - Top
79 mm (81°) + 50 mm (36°) Lower glacis - Bottom
25 mm (79°) Belly glacis
57 mm (35°) Hull over tracks 		5 mm (35°) + 30 mm Top - Front
57 mm (35°) Top - Hull widening
35 mm (35°) Top - Centre
30 mm Top - Rear
30 mm Bottom
25 mm (70°) Belly 		30 mm (15°) Upper plate
30 mm Hull over the tracks
30 mm Lower plate
25 mm (71°) Belly 		35 mm (9°) Front glacis
15 mm Rear
5 mm Radiator vents
Turret 35+50 mm (cylindrical) Turret front
50 mm + 35+25 mm (19°) Gun mantlet
50 mm + 25 mm (19°) MG port
15 mm + 35+50 mm (cylindrical) Optics port - right side		 35+35 mm (18°) Gun mantlet - Gunner side
15-25 mm (18°) Gun mantlet - Optics side
50 mm (17°) Turret - Front
41.5 mm (17-18°) Turret - Centre
25 mm (18°) Turret - Rear 		30 mm
40 mm (cylindrical) Turret ring 		35 mm (9°) Gun mantlet
20 mm (8°) Front
20 mm Centre
15 mm (8°) Rear
Cupola 35 mm (cylindrical) 35 mm (cylindrical) Base
30 mm (cylindrical) Viewports 		35 mm (cylindrical) 35 mm Outer ring
20 mm Centre

Notes:

  • The suspension wheels and the tracks are 20 mm thick.
  • Belly armour is 25 mm thick.
  • Spaced armour is located on the turret front and the front lower glacis:
Spaced armour Front (Slope angle) Sides
Hull Lower glacis:
50 mm (81°) RHA
100 mm Air
79 mm (81°) RHA 		N/A
Turret Gun mantlet/Turret front:
25 mm (19°) RHA
140 mm Air
35 mm (19°) RHA 		Gun mantlet - Gunner side:
35 mm (18°) RHA
50 mm Air
35 mm (18°) RHA
  • The values in the table above are not to be added to the armour values present in the first table as they only describe the layout of spaced armour.
  • The spaced armour does not cover the MG port.

Mobility

Reverse gearbox
Forward and backward movement is possible at the same maximum speed
Speedforward / back
AB73 / 73 km/h
RB and SB66 / 66 km/h
Number of gears10 forward
10 back
Weight40.0 t
Engine power
AB1 526 hp
RB and SB800 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB38.2 hp/t
RB and SB20.0 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 73 73 40 1,240 1,526 31 38.15
Realistic 66 66 708 800 17.7 20

The AMX-32 is powered by a Hispano-Suiza HS-110-2-SR engine rated at 800hp @ 2500RPM, with a transmission providing seven forward gears and two reverse gears, similar to the transmission from the AMX-30. Like the AMX-30, the AMX-32's top speed is 65 km/h (40 mph) forward, but the AMX-32 goes 3.9 km/h (2.4 mph) faster in reverse thanks to its upgraded engine. The AMX-32 was designed with mobility in mind, and it does just that. It is slower than the AMX-40, but still holds its ground against more sluggish tanks, especially British and Soviet vehicles at its BR. However, it should not be overestimated, as tanks such as the KPz-70 will outmatch your mobility anywhere. In an uptier, even more if not all tanks will outperform you in terms of mobility.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB3 965 → 6 260 Sl icon.png
RB3 926 → 6 199 Sl icon.png
SB5 093 → 8 041 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications182 600 Rp icon.png
303 000 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:
9 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
9 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
2 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
3 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement fr.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
9 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods engine smoke screen system.png
ESS
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
9 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods tank laser rangefinder.png
Laser rangefinder
Research:
9 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
9 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
120mm_NATO_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
9 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Research:
9 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods thermal sight.png
NVD
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Laser rangefinder
Reduces the error and increases the maximum measurable distance of the rangefinder
Night vision device
Improves visibility by enhancing natural light or active illumination.
Thermal imager
Allows to see thermal radiation in the infrared range day and night

Main armament

120 mm GIAT CN120-25 G1 cannon
Two-plane stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in two planes while moving
Ammunition38 rounds
First-order17 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
8.7 → 6.7 s
Vertical guidance-8° / 20°
Main article: GIAT CN120-25 G1 (120 mm)

The AMX-32 is armed with the GIAT CN120-25 G1, the same 120 mm smoothbore gun found on the AMX-40. It also shares the same ammunition. The stock OCC 120 G1 is a HEAT warhead capable of penetrating 480 mm of non-angled RHA at any distance. At modification tier 4, the option to research the OFL 120 G1 becomes available. It is an APFSDS shell with 394 mm of penetration, giving plenty of kinetic power for its BR. The HEAT shell also holds its ground, and nearly always knocks out any vehicles that is vulnerable to overpressure, but be wary of your battle rating, as, at its BR, up-tiers facing the top dogs are imminent. All tanks at that battle rating have excellent chemical protection, so side and gun breech shots may be your only option. The CN-120 is a great weapon for its BR, and its APFSDS can penetrate any tank in the game frontally if you have enough knowledge of weak spots and armour layout.

120 mm GIAT CN120-25 G1 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 38 -8°/+20° ±180° Two-plane 23.8 32.9 40.0 44.2 47.1 8.71 7.70 7.10 6.70
Realistic 14.9 17.5 21.3 23.5 25.0

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
OCC 120 G1 HEATFS 480 480 480 480 480 480
OFL 120 G1 APFSDS 394 393 388 382 376 370
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (kg) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
OCC 120 G1 HEATFS 1,050 14.3 0.05 0.1 2.15 65° 72° 77°
OFL 120 G1 APFSDS 1,650 3.8 - - - 78° 80° 81°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the AMX-32
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
38 18 (+20) 1 (+37) No

Notes:

  • Recommended ammo load is 18 (+20) shells. This will leave the hull rack empty and the ready rack filled.
  • Rack 2 is a ready rack, and takes priority in being filled at the beginning of the battle. It is also emptied first.
  • Full reload speed will be realized as long as ammo exists in the ready rack. If the ready rack is empty, a penalty to reload speed will occur.
  • Simply not firing when the main gun is loaded will load ammo from rack 1 into rack 2 as long as there is ammo in rack 1. Firing the main gun will interrupt the reloading of the ready rack.

The CN120-25 G1 cannon fires single-piece ammunition from two stowages, the first order rack found in the rear of the turret, and the rack located in the hull front to the right of the driver. It takes the loader about 13 seconds to restock a round into the ready rack from the hull rack.


Machine guns

20 mm 20F2 automatic cannon (coaxial)
Ammunition500 rounds
Belt capacity500 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
13.0 → 10.0 s
Fire rate740 shots/min
Vertical guidance0° / 20°
7.62 mm A-A-F1N machine gun
Ammunition2 200 rounds
Belt capacity100 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate900 shots/min
Main articles: 20F2 (20 mm), A-A-F1N (7.62 mm)

The 20F2 (French designation of M693) automatic cannon is mounted in tandem with the CN-120 in the turret mantlet. Players who have played the AMX-30 (1972) in Rank V will already know the capabilities of this weapon. Similarly to the Rh202 cannon found on the MBT/KPz-70, it excels at quickly taking out not only light tanks and SPAA, but also cannon barrels, a vital ability that gives the AMX-32 the upper hand in one-on-one combat. If the enemy tank fires at you and hits or misses, you are able to overextend, destroy the cannon barrel with the 20 mm, and safely engage the tank with your 120 mm. Lightly armoured tanks, IFVs, and anti-aircraft vehicles will be quickly taken care of by the 20F2.

20 mm 20F2
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 500 (500) 740 0°/+20° N/A

The 7.62 mm AAN-F1 machine gun is mounted on the commander's fully traversable hatch. It is helpful in engaging helicopters which are too high for the 20 mm cannon's elevation limits. It is overshadowed by the 20F2, but is useful nonetheless, especially for taking out those pesky Balloons on the Normandy tank map.

7.62 mm A-A-F1N
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Pintle 2,200 (100) 900 -10°/+40° ±120°

Usage in battles

The AMX-32 plays similarly to the AMX-30 in battles. It can be played effectively in ambushes, as a sniper (with its rangefinder and thermal optics), and use cover to the utmost advantage. With the gun stabilizer, you are able to poke out of cover, shoot, and retreat. This is especially useful when sniping, and using "leapfrog" tactics with a friendly vehicle. In the latter case, when the enemy shoots, move out of cover and take a shot, and if you want, use your 20 mm cannon to destroy their cannon barrel. Do not rely on your armour though, as most if not all shots WILL penetrate and make quick work of you. Players must make sure that they either make the enemy shoot and miss or get the first shot off on said enemy. This applies only in one-on-one combat if both the enemy and the AMX-32 see each other. If more than one tank is waiting for you, either retreat and make them come to you, try baiting or flanking, or get a friend to help. On the other hand, being able to shoot and then remove their main means of retaliating via the autocannon proves extremely useful, especially in an ambush. All in all, the AMX-32 is a very capable tank that can quickly return several enemies to the hangar without receiving major damage, if played right.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Great firepower and secondary armament
  • Excels with ambush tactics and can destroy tanks before they even know your position
  • Good mobility and reverse speed
  • The gun has a two-plane stabilizer, thermal optics, and a laser rangefinder

Cons:

  • Lacklustre armour protection, especially against kinetic shells
  • Longer reload than other tanks at its battle rating
  • The tank's mobility can and will be outmatched, especially in an uptier

History

As soon as the AMX-30B entered service in 1966, it was clear that it would not be able to face the newly introduced Soviet T-64 tank and, as a result, would need to be replaced or dramatically improved over the course of its serviceable life. Therefore, improvements had to be incorporated into the design to keep it competitive. Various development programs saw light at the end of the 1960s and all were ultimately meant to be incorporated into the AMX-30. These improvements had to improve the characteristics of the tank in the three main defining MBT traits: firepower, mobility, and armour, with the company GIAT being the project manager of all studies that were to be undertaken. 

  • The EFAB (Etablissement de la fabrique d'arme de Bourges/Weapon manufacturing facility of Bourges) were to improve the firepower of the tank.
  • AMX-APX were to improve the armour of the tank.
  • Hispano-Suiza and SESM (today RENK France) company were to improve the mobility of the tank.
  • SFIM were to improve the optic/optronic suite of the tank.

In the meantime, AMX-APX started a private project whose goal was to develop a new tank based on the AMX-30 to replace it until a French 3rd generation tank would be available. This tank was named AMX-32 and its development started in 1975 with the first prototype being ready in 1977. The tank at this time featured a rebuilt AMX-30 hull with spaced high hardness RHA armour at the front of the hull as well as a new FCS control system named COTAC introduced 2 years earlier on the AMX-10RC coupled to a new electrohydraulic turret powering unit called ATS GS 32, a fully rotating stabilized panoramicsight with a 2nd generation light intensifier at the disposal of the commander called M527 designed by the SFIM, a semi automatic gearbox ENC200 minerva with torque converter, and a DI VT 13 2nd generation light intensifying camera. The new tank was also capable of firing on the move thanks to the M527 commander panoramic sights whose stabilized mirror gyroscopes were able to send inputs to the tank gun servos, thus stabilizing it on both axis when the commander used its priority controls over the turret. 

AMX-APX tried to sell this new tank to the French Army but the price was found to be prohibitive for what was thought to be replaced in less than 10 years. Therefore, it was decided that the project should be solely dedicated to the export market. GIAT was not satisfied with the first version of the tank. If it had to attract foreign customers, this tank could not afford to be just a more expensive French Leopard 1A4 clone which already had a very good reputation and could be acquired for a fairly low price. It was decided that the AMX-32 had to become the best 2.5 generation MBT if it was to have a chance to be sold.

Therefore, GIAT ordered that new improvements had to be made, especially in the protection and firepower department, so they assigned the EFAB to the design of a larger, better protected turret capable of housing the soon to become CN120-25 L/52 120 mm smoothbore cannon originally intended for the EPC program (Engin Principal de Combat/Main Combat Vehicle program eventually resulting in the AMX Leclerc). In less than 2 years the turret was ready as well as a new turret for the more basic 105 mm gun. These two turrets had similar layouts and protection levels, only the gun mantlet as well as the position of the night vision device were different, and were both showcased at SATORY 1981. The 120 mm version was also proposed with a boosted HS 110-2-SR developing 800 HP in order to keep the HP/ton ratio around 20. The two versions of the tank attracted a lot of interest but ultimately, no orders were ever placed. Despite probably being the best modernized second generation tank of its time, the niche market of modernized 2nd generation MBTs was simply too tight for this tank to fit with modernized Leopard 1's and M60's monopolizing said market. GIAT tried once again with the AMX-40, this time being a completely new tank which was better protected and much more mobile, rivaling M1's and Leopard 2's in mobility and firepower. However, it encountered no more success than the AMX-32. The AMX-32 was proposed for the last time on the export market in 1985 before being replaced by the AMX-40 until 1990.

Despite the tank failing to attract customers, a lot of what was put into it was used to modernize the AMX-30, which would become the AMX-30B2, as well as in the EPC program, most notably in the FCS department.

Retrospectively, the French Army made a mistake by not buying this tank at all, as well as the AMX-40. The EPC program came much later than expected, leaving them with totally obsolete tanks in the late 1980s, and it is possible that the refusal to adopt the tank domestically further harmed the little chance it had of appealing to foreign customers. That being said, this tank represents a real milestone in French tank development history.

Devblog

Development of the AMX-32 began in 1975 as a private venture of AMX, in hopes of attracting the interest of foreign customers, which are already using the AMX-30. The new vehicle was intended to offer better protection than the base model, in addition to several other improvements in various areas in order to spark the interest of international customers.

The first prototype of the AMX-32, fitted with a 105 mm gun, was unveiled in 1979, followed soon after by the presentation of the second prototype in 1981, armed with a 120 mm cannon. However, despite the improvements offered over the base model, the AMX-32 attracted no interest from neither foreign customers nor from the French military, the latter of which more favored the notion of modernizing its existing fleet of AMX-30s, rather than procuring a new vehicle.

After only a handful of prototypes were built, further development was soon afterwards cancelled due to lacking interest. However, although the AMX-32 never became a success itself, many of the features that it incorporated and experiences gained during its construction were carried over the subsequent projects, such as the AMX-40 and modernization projects of its predecessor - the AMX-30.

Media

Skins
Images
  • AMX-32 WTWallpaper 01.jpg
  • AMX-32 WTWallpaper 02.jpg
  • AMX-32 WTWallpaper 03.jpg
  • AMX-32 WTWallpaper 04.jpg
  • AMX-32 WTWallpaper 05.jpg
  • AMX-32 WTWallpaper 06.jpg
Videos
French MBTs discusses the AMX-32 at 5:02 - War Thunder Official Channel
The Shooting Range #210 - Metal Beasts section at 00:48 discusses the AMX-32.
AMX-32 - The Budget Baguette - JustinPlaysYT
AMX-32 - Tank Review - Napalmratte

See also

Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

External links


Ateliers de construction d'Issy-les-Moulineaux (AMX)
Light tanks 
AMX-13  AMX-13-M24 · AMX-13 (FL11) · AMX-13 · AMX-13 (SS.11) · AMX-13-90 · AMX-13 (HOT)
Armoured cars  AMX-10RC
Medium tanks  AMX M4 · AMX-50 (TOA100)
MBTs 
AMX-30  AMX-30 · AMX-30 ACRA · AMX-30 (1972) · AMX-30B2 · AMX-30B2 BRENUS · AMX-30 Super
AMX-32/40  AMX-32 (105) · AMX-32 · AMX-40
Heavy tanks  AMX-50 Surbaissé · AMX-50 Surblindé
Tank destroyers  ELC bis · AMX-50 Foch
SPAAGs  AMX-13 DCA 40 · AMX-30 S DCA
Export  AMX-13

France medium tanks
M4 Derivatives  M4A1 (FL10) · M4A4 (SA50)
AMX-50  AMX M4 · AMX-50 (TOA100) · AMX-50 (TO90/930)
AMX-30  AMX-30 · AMX-30 (1972) · AMX-30B2 · AMX-30B2 BRENUS · AMX-30 ACRA · AMX-30 Super
AMX-32/40  AMX-32 · AMX-32 (105) · AMX-40
Leclerc  Leclerc · Leclerc S2 · Leclerc SXXI · Leclerc AZUR
Other  D2 · S.35 · Lorraine 40t
Germany  Panther "Dauphiné"
USA  ▄M4A1 · ▄M4A3 (105) · ▄M4A4 · ▄M26

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