An IFV variant of the ZBD2000 amphibious fighting vehicle was also spotted in service with the PLA Marine Corps. The vehicle is based on the same hull but with the three-man 105mm gun turret replaced by a two-man turret fitted with a newly designed 30mm cannon and the rail launcher for the HJ-73C ATGM. The vehicle was estimated to have a crew of three and can carry 7~10 marines from ship to shore and on land.
VN18 amphibious armored IFV is newly developed by NORINCO for China PLA Marine Corps and overseas market. It adopts numerous cutting-edge technologies. e.g. high-power engine, high efficient water-jet propeller, light alloy armored hull, slide technology and adjustable hydro-pneumatic suspension. Thus, the VN18 has awesome sea-surface mobility. After years of mass production and continuous improvement, VN 18 amphibious IFV is mature and reliable indeed.
VN18 amphibious IFV is mainly for landing operation in cooperation with VN16 105mm Amphibious Assault Vehicle. The VN18 can neutralize armored-target, low altitude aircraft and helicopter targets. It can transport personnel, ammunition and equipment from sea to land. The overall performance of VN18 reaches the international leading level, especially for its high water traveling speed and strong wind-wave resistance ability.
Features
World-leading amphibious mobility: with powerful 1176kW engine and water-jet propulsion system, VN 18's water-speed can reach 25km/h
With awesome fire power of 30mm cannon, HJ-73D ATGM, VN 18 can defeat ÌÂÒ and IFV in 2800m, and suppress bunker and effective strength in 3000m
Aluminum alloy base armour fitted with composite applique armour
Variants include 105mm amphibious assault vehicle, amphibious recovery vehicle, etc
