It is an unconventional tank in which the gun is mounted in a separate mini-turret above the hull. The crew, usually three, in order to accommodate an autoloader, is located in the hull and hence all surveillance and target acquisition have to be accomplished by the use of remote viewing devices.

Of all the unconventional concepts, the external gun shows the most promise. If the crew can be contained entirely below the turret ring then their chance of survival is greatly enhanced. The gun is mounted on a plinth which is itself mounted on a rotating platform. Thus, the target presented when engaging the enemy is remarkably small. As the gun is entirely supported by the external trunnions, the height of the turret roof does not come into the calculations and the tactical height of the tank can be reduced considerably.

Sergyi Way
06.09.2006

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