List_of_main_battle_tanks_by_generation

List of main battle tanks by generation

Chronological listing of main battle tanks

Main battle tanks are often classified as belonging to a particular generation, although the actual definition and membership in these generations are not defined. Soviet military planners organize tanks with the first generation of tanks up to 1950, and four generations of tanks^[1] (with the first main battle tank being the third-generation T-64), while American strategists organize main battle tanks into three generations.^{[Note 1]}^[2] The military of the People's Republic of China also recognizes three generations of its own tanks.

British Centurion Main Battle Tank

T-54 Main Battle Tank

In 1973, Rolf Hilmes saw three tank generations and three "intermediate generations", which consisted mainly of upgraded vehicles.^[3] The first generation of main battle tanks was based on or influenced by designs of World War II, most notably the Soviet T-34.^[4] The second generation was equipped with NBC protection (only sometimes), night-vision devices, a stabilized main gun and at least a mechanical fire-control system.^[4] The third generation is in Western parlance determined by the usage of thermal imagers, digital fire-control systems and special (composite) armour^[4] (Soviet doctrine, however, de-emphasizes thermal vision and electronic fire control, preferring large-caliber gun and engines of high power).

However, Hilmes acknowledged that tanks cannot be definitively grouped by generations, as each tank-producing country develops and introduces its tanks in tune with its own ideas and needs. He also states that breakdown of postwar tanks by generations is based on timeframe and technical factors, as a basis for further discussion.

Generations

First

More information Name, Year first built ...

Second

The second generation had enhanced night-fighting capabilities and in most cases NBC protection. Most western tanks of this generation were armed with the 105 mm Royal Ordnance L7 tank gun or derivatives of it.

More information Name, Year first built ...

Name	Year first built	Year entered service	Origin	Number built	Mass	Engine power	Range	Notes
M60		1959 1962 (A1) 1973 (A2) 1978 (A3)	United States	15,000+	46–52 tons	750 hp	450–500 km	A development of the M48 Patton. Later models (M60A2 and M60A3) are sometimes considered as the first intermediate generation. The M60A2 was developed with a new turret housing an M162 152mm gun/launcher.
T-62	1958 (T-62A)	1961	Soviet Union	22,700+	37 tons	581–620 hp	320–650 km	A further development of the T-55, mainly a new 115mm cannon and enlarged chassis. First tank fitted with a smoothbore tank gun that could fire APFSDS round.
T-62		1978 1992 (II & III) 2000 (IV) 2001 (V)	North Korea	1,200+	40 tons	750 hp	450 km	North Korean copy of the T-62 known as the Ch'onma-ho; later versions include upgrades.
Leopard 1	1961	1965 1970 (A1) 1972 (A2) 1974 (A4) 1980 (A5)	West Germany	4,744	40–42 tons	820 hp	450–600 km	A main battle tank designed and produced in West Germany that first entered service in 1965.
Panzer 61	1957	1965	Switzerland	150	39 tons	630 hp	250 km	Initially developed as the Panzer 58 medium tank and developed and redesignated into the Panzer 61.
MBT-70	1965	—	United States West Germany	14	50 tons	1470–1500 hp	644 km	An American-West German joint project to develop a new main battle tank. Never entered service.
Vickers MBT Mark 1	1964	1965	United Kingdom	376	38 tons	535 hp	480 km	British private venture design for export.
		1965	India	2,200	39 tons	535 hp	530 km	Vijayanta was the Indian license built version of British Vickers MBT Mark 1.
		1970	Kuwait	70	38 tons	535 hp	480 km	Al Jahra is the Kuwaiti designation for Vickers MBT Mark 1s modified for desert warfare.
AMX 30 / AMX-30E	1936	1966	France	3,571	36–39 tons	700–750 hp	450–500 km	The AMX 30 served as the principal Main Battle Tank (MBT) for the French Army.
AMX 30 / AMX-30E		1970	France Francoist Spain	299	36 tons	670 hp	400 km	The AMX-30E was a Spanish development of France's AMX-30. 280 units were manufactured by Santa Bárbara Sistemas for the Spanish Army, between 1974 and 1983.
T-64	1958 (Object-430)	1963 (T-64) 1967 (T-64A) 1976 (T-64B)	Soviet Union	13,000	38–42 tons	700–1000 hp	500–700 km	World's first composite armored tank, later versions of the T-64 may be considered as third generation. In Russian military theory, the T-64 is the first vehicle of the third generation.
T-64		1999 (T-64U / T-64BM) 2004 (T-64BM Bulat)	Ukraine		44 tons	850–1000 hp	385km	Ukrainian modernisation, bringing the T-64B to T-84 standard. Fitted with Nizh reactive armour, 9K120 Refleks missile, 1A45 Irtysh fire control, TPN-4E Buran-E night vision, 6TDF 1,000-hp (735 kW) engine and new sights.
FV 4201 Chieftain	1959 (P1-P7) 1966 (Mk 1)	1967 (Mk 2) 1970 (Mk 3) 1975 (Mk 5, Mk 6, Mk 7, Mk 8) 1979 (Mk 9) 1984 (Mk 10, Mk 11, Mk 12)	United Kingdom	1,896	52–55 tons	650–750 hp	400–500 km	Armed with the British 120 mm Royal Ordnance L11A5 gun.
FV 4201 Chieftain		1981	United Kingdom Jordan	274		1200 hp		Began as Project 4030 Phase 1 & 2, initially a development intended for export to Iran, subsequently cancelled then renegotiated to develop for and export to Jordan. Features thickened belly armour, new suspension, a Rolls-Royce CV12 diesel engine, TN37 transmission, new cooling system, integrated fire control system and laser sight, a day/night sight, and greater fuel capacity.
Magach 3		1967	United States Israel	300	50 tons	750 hp	480 km	Modernized M48A1/A2C/A3 including British 105 mm L7 cannon, low profile commander's cupola, and an upgraded communication suite, engine, and transmission.
Strv 103	1963	1967	Sweden	290	37–43 tons	540–780 hp	390 km	World's first turbine engine equipped tank, the Strv 103 is an indigenous turretless design that uses hydropneumatic hull suspension to aim.
WZ-122^[7]	1970	—	China	Only a few, project cancelled	38 tons	650–680 hp	—	Main battle tank developed by the People's Republic of China. Its development started in March 1970. After several prototypes were built, the plan was set aside in 1974.
Panzer 68	1971	1971	Switzerland	390	41 tons	660 hp	200 km	Swiss Main Battle Tank (MBT) based on the Panzer 61. Improvements consisted of wider tracks, stabilized gun, and the introduction of a second machine gun instead of the coaxial 20mm gun of early Panzer 61 models.
T-72		1973	Soviet Union	25,000	37–45 tons	780–840 hp	460–700 km	Hilmes puts the T-72 in the first intermediate generation. Post-1990's modernized versions are classified as third generation.
Olifant Mk 1 / Mk 2	1974	1976 1985 (1A) 1991 (1B)	South Africa	153	52 tons	650 hp	50–100 km	A South African development of the Centurion Tank, the Mk1 and Mk1A being conversions, and the Mk1B and Mk2 being new production vehicles.
Olifant Mk 1 / Mk 2		2003	South Africa	26	60 tons	1040 hp	500 km
Type 74		1975	Japan	873	38 tons	750 hp	300 km	Hilmes puts the Type 74 in the first intermediate generation.
Magach 5		1976	United States Israel	150	50 tons	750 hp	480 km	M48A5 in the original configuration. Generally similar to the Magach 3, but had slightly different engine and transmission Continental AVDS-1790-2D and Allison CD-850-6A accordingly. They were eventually fitted with Blazer ERA.
Vickers MBT Mark 3		1977	United Kingdom	212	39 tons	720 hp	400 km	The Vickers Mk III is a further development of the Vickers Mk I MBT. It was developed as a private venture, armed with the same gun as the Mk I, the Mk III has a new fire control system. It is powered by a Detroit Diesel 12V-71T turbocharged diesel engine, providing 720 horsepower.
TR-77-580^[8]		1979	Socialist Republic of Romania	405	42 tons	580 hp	400–450 km	Romanian development of the T-54/55, with an extended chassis and 6 road wheels, originally intended to allow the usage of the same engine as the Leopard 1. The refusal of Krauss-Maffei to deliver technology to a Warsaw Pact member and political desire to reach certain production figures meant that the V-55 engine was retained.
Merkava Mark I / II		1979	Israel	250	63 tons	908 hp	500 km	First Main Battle Tank developed and used by Israel Defense Forces.
Merkava Mark I / II		1983	Israel	580	60 tons	908 hp	500 km	Improved Merkava Mark I.
Type 80/88 / Type 96		1980	People's Republic of China	3500	38 tons	730 hp	400–500 km	Variants include the Type 80, Type 85, Type 88.
Type 80/88 / Type 96		1997	China	>2,500	41–43 tons	730–1000 hp	400 km	Domestic version of Type 85-IIM later known as Type 96.
OF-40		1981	Italy	39	46 tons	820 hp	600 km	Main Battle Tank used by United Arab Emirates.
T-55AI Igman		1981	Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia	600	37–45 tons	780 HP (educated guess)	700 km (educated guess)	Yugoslav upgrade of the T-55A, intended for modernization of YPA's aging fleet of T-55s. It shared components with the M-84, a local version of T-72, with whom it was in parallel development. Major improvements included external mounting of 2 rails for AT-3 Sagger missiles, a simplified SUV with meteosensor and laser rangefinders from M-84, addition of spaced armor on turret and front body, and installation of smoke dispensers.
T-72M/M1		1981	Czechoslovakia	1700	43.5 tons	850 hp	480 km	This model was built under licence by ZTS Martin. In Western sources it is often referred to as T-72G which might be the designator for the version exported to the Middle East. In the late 1980s the tanks produced for the Czechoslovak army and for export as well were fitted with some improvements from the Soviet T-72A programme, including rubber side skirts (instead of "gill armour") and 902B "Tucha" smoke grenade launchers.
		1982	Polish People's Republic	1610	43.5 tons	850 hp	480 km	This export version of the T-72 was built under license by Bumar-Łabędy in Gliwice starting in 1982. Like Soviet tanks, the Polish T-72M was initially fitted with "gill" armor; later the tanks were upgraded with rubber side skirts and 902W "Tucha" smoke grenade launchers. Late production models have an additional 16 mm steel plate welded on the upper glacis plate, like in the T-72M1.
		1989	Soviet Union Ba'athist Iraq	500–750	41.5 tonnes (45.7 short tons)	780 hp	425 km (600 km with fuel barrels)	Iraqi-assembled version of the T-72M1 designated as the Lion of Babylon.
T-55 Enigma		1982	Ba'athist Iraq	8	41 tons	520 hp	300 km	Modernized T-55, Type 59, and Type 69 tanks used by Iraqi Armed Forces.
Ajeya Mk1 / Mk2		1982	India	1900	41.5 tons	780 hp	425 km	Indian version of the T-72M1. In parallel with buying various T-72M off-the-shelf from the Soviet Union, India also launched its domestic production at Heavy Vehicles Factory. The Ajeya MK2 is a further development of the T-72M1 with ERA and banks of 6 smoke grenade-launchers on each side.
Type 69/79		1982	People's Republic of China	3200	37 tons	580 hp	440 km	A further development of the Type 59. Most advanced Type 79 variant was equipped with a 105 mm rifled gun which was also found on the Type 80 tank.
AMX-32	1982	—	France	6	38–40 tons	800 hp	530 km	The AMX-32 was a French prototype main battle tank developed by AMX and APX during the late 1970s as an export tank to fit in a specific market niche of nations with smaller defence budgets.
Tanque Argentino Mediano		1983	Argentina	280	31 tons	720 hp	590–800 km	Medium tank (main battle tank) in service with the Argentine Army.
Bernardini MB-3 Tamoyo^[9]	1983	—	Brazil	Only a few	30 tons	500 hp	550 km	Main battle tank designed by Bernardini; however, it never reached production status and it never passed beyond the prototype stage. The final model, the Tamoyo III was armed with a NATO 105 mm L7 rifled main gun.
TR-85		1986	Socialist Republic of Romania	617	42.2 tons	830 hp	400 km	Main battle tank based on the TR-77-580, designed for the Romanian Land Forces. 227 TR-85s were in service in 2017.
TR-85		1997	Romania	54	50 tons	860 hp	400 km	TR-85M1 Bizonul was a modernization of the TR-85, the TR-85M1 "Bizonul" (the Bison) project began in 1996, as an effort to bring it up to date with other NATO countries. The project was a cooperative effort between Aerospatiale-Matra, Sagem, Kolmorgen-Artus, Racal and Romanian factories, such as ROMARM, METRA, I.O.R. and Aerostar.
CM-11 Brave Tiger / CM-12		1990	Taiwan	450	50 tons	750 hp	480 km	Variant based on the M60 Patton and M48 Patton.
CM-11 Brave Tiger / CM-12		1990	Taiwan	100	49 tons	750 hp	203 km	Variant from M48 Patton.
M-55S		1992	Soviet Union Slovenia Israel	30	38 tons	600 hp	580 km	T-54/T-55 modernization developed by the STO RAVNE company and engineers of the Israeli company Elbit Systems. Slovenia modernized 30 T-55 tanks in the inventory of its armed forces. The last T-55 was modernized to the M-55S standard in May 1999.
Zulfiqar I		1994	Iran	400	52 tons	780–1000 hp	450 km	Over 150 built, not including 6 prototypes.
Type 72Z		1997	Iran	400	36 tons	780 hp	440 km	A highly modernized version of the Type 59 and T-54/T-55 tanks with upgrades carried out by the Iranian Defense Industries Organization.
Al-Zarrar		2004	China Pakistan	750	44 tons	730 hp	450 km	An upgrade of Pakistan's aging Chinese Type 59 tanks, developed with Ukrainian assistance and manufactured by the Heavy Industries Taxila, featuring a 125 mm smoothbore gun as primary weapon.
Ramses II		2005	Egypt	425	48 tons	908 hp	530 km	A heavily modernized T-55 main battle tank designed for and used by the Egyptian Armed Forces.
Tifon 2a	2010	—	Ukraine Peru	4	46 tons	1050 hp	—	Main battle tank based on the Soviet T-54/55 tank, developed and manufactured jointly by the Peruvian company DICSAC (Diseños Casanave Corporation S.A.C. of Peru) and the Kharkiv Morozov Machine Building Design Bureau, Ukraine. Trials/Development only to date.
Sabalan		2014	Iran	170	50 tons	750 hp	500 km	Iranian upgraded version of the US M47 Patton, It has side skirts and a newly built turret fitted with a 105-mm gun, laser range finder, new fire control system and communication equipment. Never used in active service.
Type 59G(BD) Durjoy		2015	China Bangladesh	174	42 tons	730 hp	450 km	An upgraded variant of the Chinese Type 59 tank for the Bangladesh Army.
T-55AGM	2016	—	Ukraine	4	46 tons	850 hp	—	Ukrainian T-54/T-55 modernization. It brings up the T-54/T-55 tanks to T-80 standard. It can also be applied to Chinese made Type 59 and Soviet T-62. It is fitted with 5TDFM, two-stroke liquid-cooled multi-fuel supercharged diesel engine with opposed pistons which develops 850 hp (634 kW), improved running gear, automated movement control system with a steering handlebar control, additional passive protection, built-in explosive reactive armour, countermeasures system, new fire suppression system with over-ride facilities at the commander's station, automatic loader which holds 18 rounds and anti-aircraft machine gun that can be aimed and fired from within the turret under a complete armour protection.

Third

The third generation of main battle tanks is characterized by composite armour and computer stabilized fire control systems, which allow firing on the move as well as very high first hit probability on targets up to 2,000 meters away.

More information Name, Year first built ...

Name	Year first built	Year entered service	Origin	Number built	Notes
T-80^[10] / T-84		1976	Soviet Union	>5400	World's first tank solely equipped with a turbine engine (the Swedish Strv 103 that entered service in 1960s used a turbine engine alongside a diesel). The earliest models are considered as intermediate second generation, while models from T-80U (1985) onwards are third generation.
		1987	Soviet Union	500–800	T-80UD Bereza is a Ukrainian diesel version with 1,000 hp 6TD engine and remote-controlled antiaircraft machine gun.
		1999	Ukraine	55	The T-84 is a Ukrainian main battle tank. It is a further development of the T-80UD. Development of the T-80UD began in the late 1980s. Models of the T-84 include the T-84U with new armored side skirts, built-in Kontakt-5 explosive reactive armor, muzzle reference system and some other improvements.
		2000	Ukraine	10	The T-84 Oplot is a T-84U with a new welded turret with separate crew and ammunition compartments with blowout panels on the ammunition compartment, a new bustle-mounted autoloader.
Leopard 2^[11]		1979	West Germany	3600	Development of the Leopard 2 began in 1970. It is armed with a fully-stabilized Rheinmetall RH-M-120 120 mm smoothbore gun.
		1987	Switzerland	380	License manufactured in Switzerland of the Leopard 2A4. This version included Swiss-built 7.5 mm MG 87 machine guns, communications equipment, and featured improved NBC protection system. Switzerland operated 380 Panzer 87.
		1997	Sweden	120	The Stridsvagn 122 is a Swedish main battle tank based on the German Leopard 2 Improved variant utilizing newer technology such as command-, control-, and fire-control systems, as well as reinforced armour and long-term combat capacity.
		2003	Germany Spain	219	The Leopard 2E is a derivative of the Leopard 2A6, with greater armour protection, developed under a programme of co-production between the defence industries of Spain and Germany.
		2006	Greece	140	The Leopard 2 HEL is a derivative of the Leopard 2A6 that was ordered by the Greek Army in 2003 – the "HEL" stands for "Hellenic". Around 170 tanks were delivered between 2006 and 2009. A total of 140 were built in Greece by ELBO, which delivered the first units in late 2006.
		2007	Germany Canada	20	The Leopard 2A6M CAN is a Canadian variant of the Leopard 2A6M. Significant modifications include distinctive black boxes mounted on the rear of the turret bustle, and stand-off slat armour. The first tanks configured in this variant were 20 loaned from the German Bundeswehr in an effort to increase firepower and protection given to Canadian troops operating in the south of Afghanistan. The loaned tanks retain their German MG3 machine gun, the ex-Dutch tanks are also expected to retain their FN MAG machine guns due to commonality with Canadian stocks of C6 GPMG, itself a variant of the FN MAG.
MBT-80	1980	—	United Kingdom	17	The FV4601 MBT-80^[12] was a British experimental third-generation main battle tank, designed in the late 1970s to replace the Chieftain tank. It was eventually cancelled in favour of the Challenger 1, itself an evolution of the Chieftain design.
M1 Abrams		1980	United States	10,400	Production began (at Chrysler) in 1979 and continued to 1985 (at General Dynamics) (3,273 built for the US). M1A1 began production in 1985 till 1992, and featured a pressurized NBC system, rear bustle rack for improved stowage of supplies and crew belongings, redesigned blow-off panels and M256 120 mm smoothbore cannon (4,976 built for the U.S. Army, 221 for USMC, 59 M1A1 AIM SA sold to Australia). The M1A2 began production in 1986 and entered service in 1992 (77 built for the U.S. and more than 600 M1s upgraded to M1A2, 315 for Saudi Arabia, 1,005 for Egypt, 218 for Kuwait). The M1A2 offers the tank commander an independent thermal sight and ability to, in rapid sequence, shoot at two targets without the need to acquire each one sequentially, also 2nd generation depleted uranium armor components. In 1992 the System Enhancement Package (SEP) has upgraded third-generation depleted uranium armor components with graphite coating (240 new built, 300 M1A2s upgraded to M1A2 SEP for the US, also unknown numbers of upgraded basic M1s and M1IPs, also 400 oldest M1A1s upgraded to M1A2 SEP).
FV4030/4 Challenger 1		1983	United Kingdom	420	Replaced FV 4201 Chieftain. The Challenger 1 is armed with a fully-stabilized British L11A5 120 mm rifled gun. It is a significantly improved version of the Chieftain's gun. It is extremely accurate, however it was fitted with slow fire control system. The Challenger 1 is powered by a Rolls-Royce Condor CV12-1200TCA turbocharged diesel engine, developing 1200 hp.
AMX-40	1983	—	France	4	The AMX-40 was a French main battle tank developed by GIAT during the latter stages of the Cold War as an export tank to replace the earlier AMX-32. Designed to be an inexpensive tank orientated towards militaries with smaller defence budgets, the AMX-40 featured a lightly armoured hull and good mobility reminiscent of previous French MBTs with a powerful 120 mm cannon. It however failed to attract interest and sales, rendering the project a failure, being discontinued in 1990.
M-84		1984	Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia	650	The M-84 main battle tank is essentially the Soviet T-72, produced under license. However it has a number of Yugoslavian sub-systems. Production of the M-84 began in 1983 and first vehicles entered service in 1984. By 1992 over 600 had been built. Currently it is operational with some countries of the former Yugoslavia and Kuwait.
	1991	—	Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia	2	The M-91 Vihor is a Yugoslav main battle tank prototype, based on the M-84, which is in turn, a Yugoslav-made licensed copy of the Russian T-72. Due to the Disintegration of Yugoslavia, it never entered production, and only a few prototypes were made, mainly for testing. Its development later led to the M-95 Degman.
	1995	—	Croatia	2	The M-95 Degman is a Croatian main battle tank prototype, developed by the Đuro Đaković company and is largely based on the M-91 Vihor tank that which is turn based in the M-84 tank. The Degman M-95 has not entered serial production.
		2004	Serbia	10	The M-84AS is an upgraded Yugoslav version of the M-84 tank. M-84AS is sometimes referred to as M-84AB1 and M-2001.
		2018	Croatia	16	The M-84D is an upgraded version of the M-84 with improvements to its armor, armament, mobility and electronics. 75 to be upgraded, possibly replacing the 125mm 2A46 gun with a NATO 120mm gun.
		2017	Serbia	10	The M-84AS1 and M-84AS2 are substantially modernized versions of the M-84 main battle tank designed by the Military Technical Institute and produced by Technical Overhauling Institute "Čačak" in Serbia. The first version designated as M-84AS1 was presented in 2017. Later revisions feature numerous improvements and were presented in 2020 and 2021.
EE-T1/EE-T2 Osório	1985	—	Brazil	2	The Engesa EE-T1 Osório was a Brazilian main battle tank prototype developed by Engesa. The tank was intended to be sold first to Arab and other Third World countries, jump-starting production and enabling the Brazilian Army to later place its own orders without having to fund development costs. Development of the tank was initially privately funded by Engesa, but cashflow issues eventually led to the Brazilian government extending a loan to assist the program. Two prototypes of the tank were built, but the EE-T1 was never adopted for service.
K1 88-Tank/K1A1		1987	South Korea	1027	First Main Battle Tank in use with the Republic of Korea Armed Forces, designed by General Dynamics.^[13]
K1 88-Tank/K1A1		2001	South Korea	484	The K1A1 main battle tank is an improved version of the K1 88-Tank. It was developed in South Korea by Hyundai Rotem. It is broadly similar to the US M1A1 Abrams in terms of firepower and protection. First production vehicle was completed in 1996, however it entered service with the ROK Army only in 2001. Production ceased in 2010. A total of 484 of these tanks were reportedly built.
TR-125		1987	Socialist Republic of Romania	5–10	Prototype main battle tank is a redesigned T-72 made in Romania with Romanian components only. It is now designated P-125 (P stands for Prototype).
Merkava Mark III / IV		1989	Israel	780	As of 2022, the Merkava III was retired from active service but is still the most numerous tank in the IDF's arsenal. Compared to the Merkava Mark II, it has upgrades to the drivetrain, powertrain, armament, and electronic systems. The most prominent addition was the incorporation of the locally developed IMI 120 mm gun.
Merkava Mark III / IV		2004	Israel	360	The Merkava Mark IV entered service with Israel Defense Forces in 2004. It is a further development of the Merkava Mark 3. Now they equip the 460th training brigade and the 4th reserve brigade. For a long time these tanks were not available for export, though some of the tank's systems and components were offered for the export customers. However, in 2014 it was reported, that Israel will export a number of these tanks to an undisclosed customer, possibly Colombia.
Type 90		1990	Japan	341	Development commenced in 1976. It was intended to replace the Type 61 medium tanks in service with Japanese Ground Self-Defense Forces (JGSDF). The new tank was developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in cooperation with German Krauss-Maffei and MaK tank manufacturers. It is armed with German Rheinmetall RH-M-120 120 mm smoothbore gun, which was produced in Japan under license by Japan Steel Works. It fires HEAT-MP and APFSDS-T rounds, but is also compatible with all standard NATO 120 mm tank ammunition.
Pokpung-ho II		1992	North Korea	200–500	A further development of Ch'onma-Ho. The tank may incorporate technology found in the T-62, T-72, and Ch'onma-ho MBTs. The P'okp'ung-ho is only known to be used in North Korea.
Leclerc		1992	France	862	Replaced AMX 30. The Leclerc main battle tank was developed by GIAT Industries. Its development began in 1978 and first prototypes were built in 1989. Production of the Leclerc started in 1991. It is named in honor to general Philippe Leclerc, commander of French armored division during World War II. It is in service with France (406) and United Arab Emirates (388).
Tank Technology Demonstrator (TTD)	1992	—	South Africa	1	The TTD or Tank Technology Demonstrator prototype main battle tank was completed in the early 1990s. It used some German Leopard 2 technology and was intended to replace ageing South African MBTs. Only a prototype has been built and the TTD never went into service because of limited funding. Some of the TTD subsystems were applied to the Olifant Mk 2. These upgraded MBTs are expected to serve well into the 21st century.
T-90		1992	Russia	750–1,000	Deep modernization of the T-72B; originally introduced into service in October 1992 as T-72BU, but simultaneously renamed as the T-90.
T-72M2 Moderna	1993	—	Slovakia	1	A further development of the T-72M1A. Development was completed but without any order for tank fleet modernization.
PT-91 Twardy		1995	Poland	281	A development of the T-72M1. The PT-91 Twardy (tough) is an improved variant of the Soviet T-72 main battle tank. The PT-91 was developed in Poland in the early 1990s. Production of the PT-91 Twardy tanks for the Polish Army was completed in 2002. A total of 233 tanks were delivered. Malaysia ordered 48 PT-91M Pendekar which were delivered in 2007-2009. Currently Polish Army also operates 120 older T-72M1 tanks (with additional 470 tanks mothballed, actual number of machines in working condition is unknown).
PT-91 Twardy		2016	Poland	—	The PT-16 is a further development of PT-91 Twardy. Claimed proposed upgrades include improved armor, armament, and mobility. Only non functional mock-up ever built. Prototype never built.^{[further explanation needed]}
Ariete		1995	Italy	200	The Ariete (ram) main battle tank (also referred as the C-1) was developed by Iveco and OTO Melara. It is named in honor to Italian Ariete armored division, which fought during World War II. This main battle tank was intended to replace ageing fleet of M60A1 in service with Italian Army. First prototype of the C1 Ariete was revealed in 1986 and six pre-production vehicles were built in 1989. It entered service with Italian army in 1995. Italy operates 200 of this type.
Zulfiqar II	1997	—	Iran	Few prototypes	Further development of the Zulfiqar I. It is an interim MBT, which served as a test bed for the Zulfiqar III. It had an extended hull and was fitted with new engine. It also has a new turret with sloping front and bustle at the rear. This may indicate removal of the autoloader, or possibly, a new autoloader. Prototype, never entered service.
FV4034 Challenger 2		1998	United Kingdom	447	Further development of the Challenger 1. The new main battle tank is significantly more capable than its predecessor. It entered service with the British Army in 1994. Currently the Challenger 2 is in service with United Kingdom (386) and Oman (38). Armed with the British 120 mm L30 rifled gun.
T-72M1S		1998	Syria Italy	124	Syrian-Italian upgrade with the addition of the Galileo Avionica, TURMS-T computerised FCS, including infrared cameras, improved gun stabilisation, stabilised sights for the gunner and the commander, and capability to launch 9M119 Svir/Refleks ATGMs. 124 T-72M1s and T-72AVs were upgraded to this standard between 1998 and 2000. Very few of the upgraded T-72AVs retained their explosive reactive armour after being upgraded.
Black Eagle (tank)	1999	—	Russia	1	The Black Eagle tank (Russian: Чёрный Орёл, Chyornyy Oryol or Object 640), was a presumed prototype main battle tank produced in the Russian Federation. It was thought to have been developed by the KBTM design bureau in Omsk in the late 1990s. A production version of this tank has never been publicly demonstrated. The Black Eagle has been cancelled, with all production and development halted. It is a T-80 variant which has helped development of the T-14 Armata.
T-95	2000	—	Russia	2	T-95, or Object 195, is the common informal designation of a Russian main battle tank that was under development at Uralvagonzavod from 1988 until its cancelation in 2010. Little about the tank is publicly known. The work from the Object 195 was used in the Object 148, later type classified as the T-14 Armata, which began production in 2016.
Zulfiqar III		2000	Iran	750	The most advanced variant of the Zulfiqar family which was selected for production, bears an uncanny resemblance to the American M1 Abrams. It features considerable upgrades to the fire-control system, chassis, engine and main gun. The new variant is equipped with the 2A46 125 mm smoothbore cannon with an autoloader, a laser rangefinder and a new fire-control system. It is also fitted with a reinforced turret and the wheels are covered by an armoured skirt.
M60-2000	2001	—	United States Turkey	1	The M60-2000 or 120S was initially aimed at the Turkish Land Forces Command (TLFC) M60 upgrade requirement but this competition was subsequently won by Israel Military Industries with their Sabra II upgrade. The Egyptian Army was considering this offer until it was finally rejected in favor of a licensed contract to build M1s in Egypt.^[14] Only one prototype was made.
Type 99		2001	People's Republic of China	1200	The Type 99 main battle tank is a further development of the Type 98. It is generally similar to the Type 98, but has a number of improvements. The Type 99 was revealed in 2000 and entered service with the Chinese Army in 2001. This main battle tank shows a mixture of Russian and Western influence in its design and technology. As of 2017 improved version of this tank is produced in China. Currently it is the most advanced Chinese main battle tank.
MBT-2000/Al-Khalid^[15]		2002	People's Republic of China Pakistan	994	The Al Khalid main battle tank was jointly developed by China and Pakistan. It is a further development of the Chinese Type 90-II tank, which was not accepted to service with the Chinese Army. In the late 1990s it was marketed for export as the MBT-2000. Pakistan acquired a production license. The Al Khalid is named after the legendary general Khalid ibn al-Walid. First deliveries of this tank were made in 2002. The Al Khalid is currently in service with Pakistan.
MBT-2000/Al-Khalid^[15]		2009	People's Republic of China Pakistan	150	Al-Khalid I is an upgraded variant with Ammunition capacity increased to 49 125 mm rounds, 1,500 12.7 mm rounds and 7,100 7.62 mm rounds. Incorporates modifications made to the fire-control system which is now a more advanced multi process fire control computer with up to 7 km effective identification range.
Tank EX	2002	—	India	9	Experimental hybrid prototype with turret of Arjun and hull of T-72. It underwent six months of trials, but was subsequently rejected by the Indian Army.
Pokpung-ho III		Between 1992-2002	North Korea	200–500	Outside parties codename the tank M-2002 because the tank went through performance trials on February 16, 2002 (therefore being officially confirmed by outside sources), although the tank may have been in existence since 1992.
T-72M4CZ^[16]		2003	Czech Republic	30	Upgraded Czech version of the T-72 tank. The T-72 main battle tank was licensed-produced in the former Czechoslovakia. It entered service with the Czechoslovakian Army in 1981. After the dissolution of the Czechoslovakia in the early 1990s upgrade programs were developed both in Czech Republic and Slovakia to keep their fleets of T-72 MBTs operational and combat capable.
M60 Phoenix		2004	Jordan	182	The M60 Phoenix is a Jordanian upgrade of the M60A3 main battle tank. It was developed by the King Abdullah Design and Development Bureau (now Jordan Design and Development Bureau). A total of 182 Jordanian M60A3 tanks were reportedly upgraded to the Phoenix standard. A 105 mm rifled gun was replaced by a Swiss RUAG CTG fully-stabilized 120 mm/L50 smoothbore gun. It is compatible with all standard NATO 120 mm tank ammunition. The Jordanian M60 Phoenix is notable for packing heavier punch than other upgunned M60s, that have 120 mm/L44 guns.
Arjun Mk 1		2004	India	141	The first prototype of the Arjun main battle tank was built in 1989, 15 pre-production prototypes were built by 1996. Production variant designated as Arjun MK1 entered service with the Indian Army in 2004. MK1A variant of Arjun was developed and entered service with the Indian Army in 2021.
C2 Ariete		2005	Italy	200	The C2 Ariete was revealed in 2005. It has a modular armor, 120 mm smoothbore gun fitted with an autoloader, hydropneumatic suspension, 1500 hp engine and more advanced fire control system.
Mobarez		2006	Iran	50	A domestically upgraded version of the British Chieftain tank by Iran.
T-90S Bhishma		2006	India	330	The T-90S Bhishma is a vehicle tailored for Indian service, improving upon the T-90S, and developed with assistance from Russia and France. The tanks are equipped with the French Thales-built Catherine-FC thermal sights. They use Russian Kontakt-5 explosive reactive armour, in addition to the primary armor, which consists of laminated plates and ceramic layers with high-tensile properties. The new welded turrets first developed for the Indian T-90S Bhishma have more advanced armour protection than the early cast turrets.
Type 96A/B		2006	People's Republic of China	2500	Type 96G (also referred as Type 96A). It is an upgraded version of the Type 96, fitted with explosive reactive armor and thermal imaging system for all-weather, day/night operation. It was revealed in 2006. It is believed that upgraded vehicles approach the Type 99 in terms of protection, firepower and mobility. Weight of upgraded MBT increased to 42.8 t. All Type 96 tanks might be upgraded to this standard. This tank is also proposed for export customers as the VT2B. In 2016 a new version of the Type 96G emerged, which is most likely to be fitted with a new engine.
Sabra Mk I / II		2007	United States Israel	630	An extensively upgraded M60 Patton tank developed by Israel Military Industries.
Sabra Mk I / II		2009	Israel Turkey	450	The Sabra Mk II is known as the M60T in Turkish service.
M60A3 SLEP		2019	Taiwan	—	Taiwanese 2019 Service Life Extension Program (SLEP) modular update of the M60A3 in conjunction with Elbit Systems. Upgrades includes MG251/L44 120 mm gun with a semi-automatic load assist, Elbit Knight Independent Fire Control System (IFCS) with an independent thermal commander's sight, laser range finder, an RWR/IR warning system and Curtis-Wright electric turret drive. Improved hull suspension, improved NBC protection system and modular active and reactive armor packages.
"M2020" tank		2020	North Korea	9	An unidentified model of a North Korean main battle tank was unveiled during the military parade that commemorated the 75th anniversary of the foundation of the Worker's Party. It was given the unofficial name "M2020" by South Korean media. Its design is a mix of the American M1 Abrams, Russian T-14 Armata and the Iranian Zulfiqar Tank. It is equipped with composite armour, reactive armour and possibly an autoloader. The main armament is the Soviet 2A46 125 mm gun. Its secondary armament includes a Russian AGS-30 automatic grenade launcher, two Bulsae-3 anti-tank missiles and an unidentified co-axial machine gun.

Modernized

These are third-generation tanks modernized with fourth-generation technology.

More information Name, Year first built ...

Name	Year first built	Year entered service	Origin	Number built	Notes
Leopard 2NG	2011	—	Germany Turkey	1	The Leopard 2NG (Next Generation) is a privately funded Turkish upgrade by ASELSAN that includes the application of AMAP, upgraded optics, completely overhauled turret mechanics, and a new fire control system on the work since 1995 and to be delivered by late 2011, which is intended to be used on the new Altay MBT. It was developed without an order from the Turkish Army, but might meet the requirements for the modernization of the Turkish Leopard 2A4s. The old powerpack and the L/44 gun barrel are kept, but the combat weight is increased to 65 tonnes.
Merkava Mk 4M Windbreaker		2011	Israel	300	Merkava Mark IV equipped with the Trophy active protection system (APS), designated "Meil Ruach" (Hebrew: מעיל רוח; "Windbreaker" or "Wind Coat"). the Merkava IVm now equips all active service combat brigades.
T-84 Oplot-M		2013	Ukraine	54	The newest and most sophisticated version of the T-84 is an upgraded version of the "T-84 Oplot" mounting more advanced armor, new electronic countermeasure systems, and others. One visible feature is the new PNK-6 panoramic tank sight. The T-84 Oplot-T is an export version for Thailand.
T-90MS/M		2013	Russia	100^[17]	The main features include the modernisation of the old turret design, which is equipped with the new advanced fire control system "Kalina" (with integrated combat information and control systems), improved armor on the ammo carousel, and a new upgraded 2A46M-5 gun, as well as a remote-controlled anti-aircraft gun "UDP T05BV-1". T-90MS is the export version, also known as T-90SM.
K1A2		2013	South Korea	480	Upgraded variant of the K1A1 with the technology of the K2 Black Panther. It features additional systems such as a digital battlefield control system, IFF system, front and rear surveillance camera and navigation system, and with improved real-time information sharing, inter-combat vehicle operation, friendly fire prevention and driver operability.^[18]
Type 99A		2014	China	600	The Type 99G is a Chinese main battle tank. It is an improved version of the Type 99, which was adopted by the Chinese Army back in 2001. This tank is also referred as the Type 99A, Type 99A1 and Type 99A2. It has a number of improvements over the baseline Type 99, related with fire control, targeting and countermeasures systems and modified suspension.
Leopard 2A7+		2014	Germany	106	The Leopard 2A7+ is an advanced third generation tank and has been tested by the Bundeswehr under the name UrbOp (Urban Operations). Is designed to operate both in low-intensity and high-intensity conflicts. The tank's protection has been increased by modular armour. The frontal protection has been improved with a dual kit on the turret and hull front, while 360° protection against RPGs and mine protection increases the survivability of the tank in urban operations. The modular armour's system components were first used by Canada in Afghanistan. It can fire programmable high explosive munitions. The turret-mounted MG3 has been replaced with a stabilised FLW remote weapon station. Mobility, sustainability, and situational awareness have also been improved. In December 2018, Hungary ordered 44 2A7+s, making them the second operator of the improved version, after Qatar.
VT-4		2016	China	<100	The VT4 is a Chinese main battle tank, developed specially for export. It is also known as the MBT-3000. It is being marketed by NORINCO. This tank can be seen as a simplified export version of the Type 99G, which is used by the China's Army. The VT4 is a further development of the VT1A, which is in turn a downgraded export version of the Type 99.
T-80BVM		2017	Russia	>220	Up to 300 units, new "Relikt" ERA, PNM Sosna-U gunner sight (as in T-90 and T-72B3), improved 2A46M-4 125mm gun, upgraded gas turbine engine, and upgrade of various other systems. Currently being delivered.
M1A2 SEPv3 / SEPv4		2017	United States	154	The M1A2 SEPv3 (formerly designated M1A2C) has increased power generation and distribution, better communications and networking, new Vehicle Health Management System (VHMS) and Line Replaceable Modules (LRMs) for improved maintenance, an Ammunition DataLink (ADL) to use airburst rounds, improved counter-IED armor package, improved FLIR using long- and mid-wave infrared, a low-profile CROWS RWS, Next Generation Armor Package (NGAP), and an Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) under armor to run electronics while stationary instead of the engine, visually distinguishing the version by a small exhaust at the left rear. More passive ballistic protection added to the turret faces, along with new Explosive Reactive Armor mountings (Abrams Reactive Armor Tile (ARAT)) and Trophy Active Protection systems added to the turret sides. Prototypes began testing in 2015, and the first were delivered in October 2017.
M1A2 SEPv3 / SEPv4		2023	United States	—	The 2–12 Cavalry Regiment received the first M1A2 SEPv4 (formerly designated M1A2D) tank as of 21 January 2023. It was previously under development as of 29 March 2022. The Commander's Primary Sight, also known as the Commander's Independent Thermal Viewer, and Gunner's Primary Sight will be upgraded with third Gen FLIR, an improved laser rangefinder and color cameras. Additional improvements will include advanced meteorological sensors, laser warning/detection receivers, directional smoke grenade launchers and integration of the new XM1147 advanced multi-purpose (AMP) 120mm tank round. The AN/VVR-4 laser warning receiver and ROSY rapid obscurant system have been trialed by the US Army for adoption on the M1 Abrams tank and Bradley fighting vehicle.
Karrar		2017	Iran	>150	Iranian MBT claimed to be on a par with the Russian T-90M and American M1A2. Both Iran and Russia, however, deny any Russian involvement in the project outside of the hull's original production.
Leopard 2PL^[19]		2020	Poland Germany	142	Modernized version of the Leopard 2A4 tank, used by the Polish Armed Forces. The upgrade included a new commander's control and monitoring system, the installation of an auxiliary power unit (APU), a new turret stowage compartment for crew equipment, the modernization of its main gun to use new types of programmable ammunition, and the integration of day/night rear camera for drivers. Included are customized towing vehicles due to the increased weight of the upgraded tank.
Arjun MK 1A		2021	India	17	The Arjun Mk 1A is an improved variant of the Arjun main battle tank. It has a redesigned turret protected with Kanchan composite armour, ERA and NERA. It has ALWCS active protection system and DRDO developed health monitoring system. Arjun MK1A has capability to fire indigenous gun-launched dual purpose missile viz, SAMHO. Arjun MK1A entered service with the Indian Army in 2021.
Ariete AMV		2022^[20]	Italy	125	The Ariete AMV is a mid life update (Ammodernamento di Mezza Vita) of the Ariete for 125 units and includes: Upgraded IVECO V12 MTCA with common-rail injection and 1,500 hp, upgraded transmission, new tracks, new electronics and optronics (LOTHAR SD for the gunner, Multispectral ATTILA D for the commander), add-on armor and mine protection and integration of SICCONA battlefield management system.
Merkava IV Barak		2023	Israel	—	The Merkava Mark 4 "Barak" (Lightning) is planned to enter service in 2023. The tank will have an upgraded Trophy APS, 360-degree day/night camera coverage for boosted situational awareness, a fighter jet–style heads-up display for the tank commander, and new sensors enabling it to independently acquire targets and strike them rapidly, as well as having electronic warfare abilities and advanced processing systems, and a directed energy system capable of intercepting drones and cruise missiles.
Haider MBT		2024	Pakistan	—	Main battle tank designed and manufactured by the Heavy Industries Taxila for the Pakistan Army. It has various improvements in all aspects of mobility, protection and firepower. Features 125mm smoothbore gun, advanced fire control system that contains a variety of sensors and targeting devices and a new composite armor with ERA.^[21]^[22]^[23]

Fourth/next

Next generation^[24]^{[better source needed]} or fourth generation tanks are still under development or at early stages of their generation. While the term "(fourth) next generation" has no formal basis, these main battle tanks are using the latest technology and designs to compete in the current advanced warfare environment.^[vague]^{[citation needed]}

More information Name, Year first built ...

Name	Year first built	Year in service	Origin	Number built	Notes
Type 10^[25]^{[better source needed]}		2012	Japan	117	Development began in the 1990s, entered service in 2012. Heavy emphasis was placed on C4I capabilities as well as on performance, firepower, protection and mobility. The tank features an autoloader with a reload time of about 3.5 seconds and modular armor, which can be configured as needed. Thanks to size and weight reduction 84% of Japan's 17,920 bridges are passable for the Type 10, compared to only 65% for the Type 90 and 40% for mainstream western main battle tanks.
K2 Black Panther^[26]		2014	South Korea		The development project was completed in 2008, but mass production was delayed when the company later decided to develop a domestic power pack, and it began to be serviced after being deployed to the South Korean Army from 2014. A total of 150 units will be produced for the fourth batch from 2024 to 2028.
T-14 Armata	2015	—	Russia	30	Not in active service. First batch of 12 prototypes was delivered in 2015. In December 2021, the state-owned Rostec Corporation announced the start of serial production of 40 (which were not produced up to 2023). Its engine develops 1 350 hp (1 500 hp peak). It has a new Malakhit add-on explosive reactive armor. It uses electrical armament stabilization with an unmanned turret. It is armed with a 2A82 125 mm smoothbore gun.
Altay^[27]		2016 - Phase I 2023 - Phase II	Turkey	5 Phase I^[28] 2 Phase II^[29]	Turkish modern main battle tank based on South Korean K2 Black Panther developed by Otokar and produced by BMC under design assistance and technology transfer by Hyundai Rotem. Currently not in active service, only prototypes.^[30]
Leclerc XLR		2023	France	—	Newest upgrade package part of the SCORPION program. Inclusion of new tactical interfaces, new armor packages, RWS turret, as well as several additional sensors and grenade launchers. First units delivered in 2023, with a total fleet of 200 Leclerc XLR by 2030.
Panther KF51^[31]	—		Germany Hungary^[32]	3	Technology demonstrator created by Rheinmetall, armed with a 130mm gun. In August 2023, Hungary announced that it will join the development.^[33]
AbramsX	—		United States		A technology demonstrator of the M1 Abrams series, the AbramsX features include the XM360 electrothermal-chemical gun, an autoloader, unmanned turret, a hybrid diesel-electric power pack that gives 50% more fuel efficiency, a 30mm chain gun in a remote controlled weapon station, active protection systems, and a silent mode when running on electric power.
FMBT^[34]	2025		India		Variably referred to as the Arjun MK2, Next Generation Main Battle Tank (NGMBT) or Future MBT (FMBT), the FMBT is an upcoming main battle tank developed by DRDO for the Indian Army.
Challenger 3	2027		United Kingdom		Further development of the Challenger 2, the Challenger 3 has an all new turret with an improved hull. The L30A1 120 mm rifled gun has been replaced with the new NATO-Standard Rheinmetall L55A1 120 mm smoothbore gun; itself a derivative of Rheinmetall Rh-120 120 mm gun currently used in the Leopard 2A6 and 2A7. The Challenger 3 is due to enter service in 2027 with the total fleet being 148 tanks.
Main Ground Combat System^[35]	2035		France Germany Italy		In September 2023 Germany and France, along with Italy, Spain and Sweden announced to be working on a successor to the Leopard 2 tank, rendering the future of the MGCS project uncertain.
Decisive Lethality Platform^[36]	2035		United States		Prospective unmanned MBT, not presently in active development^[37]

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[2] [N 1]
"The Canadian Directorate of Land Strategic Concept defines three generations of Main Battle Tanks. The first generation of post World War II Main Battle Tanks includes the U.S. M48/M60, the German Leopard 1 and the British Centurion and Chieftain. The second generation includes most of the 120 mm Main Battle Tanks such as the American M1A1, the German Leopard 2 and the British Challenger. As for the third generation Main Battle Tank, they include the latest 'digital' tank such as the French Leclerc and perhaps the American M1A2 and the German Leopard 2A5."

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Sewell, Stephen 'Cookie' (1998). "Why Three tanks?" (PDF). Armor. 108 (4). US Army Armor Center, Fort Knox, KY: 46. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2007-06-28. The Soviets saw tank generations in this manner: 1920–1945, first generation; 1946–1960, second generation; 1961–1980, third generation; and 1981–present, fourth generation. Since the last really new tank design, the T-80, came out in 1976, they feel that they have not produced a true Fourth Generation Tank Design. In comparison, they count the M1, Challenger, and Leopard 2 as Fourth Generation and the LeClerc as Fifth Generation.

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Italian army starts trials of upgraded C1 Ariete AMV MBT Main Battle Tank

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https://www.cbo.gov/system/files/2021-03/57085-ground-combat-vehicles.pdf ^{[bare URL PDF]}

[1]

[Note 1]

[2]

[3]

[4]

[5]

[6]

[7]

[8]

[9]

[10]

[11]

[12]

[13]

[14]

[15]

[16]

[17]

[18]

[19]

[20]

[21]

[22]

[23]

[24]

[25]

[26]

[27]

[28]

[29]

[30]

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Name	Year first built	Year entered service	Origin	Number built	Mass	Engine power	Range	Notes
Centurion^[3]^[5]	1945 (Mk 1)	1946 (Mk 2) 1948 (Mk 3) 1955 (Mk 5)	United Kingdom	4,423^[6]	51 tons	650 hp	52–100 km	First "Universal Tank" (MBT) Culmination of the WWII cruiser tanks.
		1953 (C III) 1955 (C V) 1958 (C X)	Sweden	110	52 tons	650 hp	52–100 km	Strv 81 and 101 were the Swedish designations for the C III/V and C X, with Swedish machine guns and instruments.
		1960 (Meteor) 1970 (Kal Alef) 1975 (Kal Bet) 1980 (Kal Gimel) c.1985 (Kal Dalet)	Israel	390	51 tons	650 hp	52–100 km	Sho't is the Israeli designation of the 105 mm L7 armed Centurion tank.
T-54^[3]^[5]	1945 (T-54)	1947 (T-54) 1955 (T-54A) 1957 (T-54B)	Soviet Union	35,000	36 tons	520 hp	330–440 km	USSR's First Generation of MBT.
		1956 (T-54/T-54A)	Polish People's Republic	3,000	36 tons	520 hp	330–440 km	Produced under license in Poland.
		1957 (T-54A)	Czechoslovakia	2,700	36 tons	520 hp	330–440 km	T-54A produced under license in Czechoslovakia.
		1959 (T-54A)	People's Republic of China	13,000	36 tons	520 hp	450–600 km	Chinese-produced version of the Soviet T-54A tank.
M48 Patton	1951 (T48)	1952 1953 (A1) 1955 (A2) 1957 (A3)	United States	12,000	45–49 tons	750–825 hp	110–480 km	A further development of the M47 Patton tank. America's First generation of MBT
FV4202	1955	—	United Kingdom	3	41 tons	520 hp	50–100 km	Prototype used to develop various concepts later used in the Chieftain.
T-55^[3]^[5]	1958	1958	Soviet Union	27,500	36 tons	581 hp	400–530 km	Improved T-54.
		1964	Polish People's Republic	7,000	36 tons	581 hp	400–530 km	Produced under license in Poland.
		1964	Czechoslovakia	8,300	36 tons	581 hp	400–530 km	Produced under license in Czechoslovakia.
Type 61^[3]	1956	1961	Japan	560	35 tons	570 hp	200 km	Designated as the First main battle tank developed and used by the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF), built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.

List_of_main_battle_tanks_by_generation

List of main battle tanks by generation

Generations

First

Second

Third

Modernized

Fourth/next

See also

Explanatory notes

Citations

General and cited references

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