The speed of a tank is not the main, but an important parameter that affects operational mobility and the ability to quickly change positions on the battlefield. However, even among the main battle vehicles, the differences in maximum speed on the highway can reach tens of kilometers per hour.
Different armies of the world use heavy main battle tanks and lighter tracked vehicles, and it is the mass and power plant that most often determine the final positions in the ranking. What do the indicators of modern heavy armored vehicles look like? Without promising platforms - only vehicles in service.
5. T-90M "Breakthrough" (Russia)
The Russian "Breakthrough" consistently delivers up to 70 km/h on the highway. This is an excellent indicator for a heavy vehicle, allowing you to quickly make long marches.
However, the T-90M has an "Achilles heel" inherited from the Soviet school - an extremely low reverse speed (only about 5 km/h), which limits the tank's capabilities during a tactical retreat.
At the same time, the domestic model retains one of the best cross-country abilities in the world on difficult, viscous soil.
4. Type 10 (Japan)
Formally having the same maximum speed of 70 km/h, the Japanese tank bypasses competitors in dynamics. Thanks to its weight of only 44 tons and a unique continuously variable transmission (CVT), it picks up speed almost instantly.
But the main thing is that the Type 10 can go backwards as fast as it goes forward, which makes it the king of maneuverable combat and ambushes.
3. M1A2 Abrams (USA)
Despite its huge mass, the gas turbine engine provides stable acceleration up to 72 km/h and excellent pick-up on the highway.
Due to this, the Abrams is able to quickly move between sections of the front over long distances. However, high speed is achieved at the cost of colossal fuel consumption.
2. K2 Black Panther (South Korea)
Modern layout and lightweight design provide a high level of mobility - up to 75 km/h.
The advanced hydropneumatic suspension allows the "Panther" to effectively maintain speed even on rough terrain, adjusting to the terrain in real time.
1. Leopard 2A4 (Germany)
One of the fastest heavy tanks in the world - develops up to 77 km/h, but specifically in the 2A4 version. The balanced power plant and perfectly tuned chassis allow you to effectively maintain a high pace of movement even on difficult routes.
However, there are limiters on combat vehicles in combat units. Constant driving at 77 km/h will turn the rubber pads on the tracks into rags in a couple of hours and "sentence" the transmission.
The maximum speed rating reflects only one parameter of mobility - movement on the highway. In real conditions, acceleration, cross-country ability and reliability of the chassis are more important.
That is why the most protected tanks are not always slower than their lighter competitors
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