Merkava Siman 3: Merkava Mk 3 in IDF Service Part 1 (Armor series)

MERKAVA SIMAN 3 (MK 3) BAZ IN ISRAEL DEFENSE FORCES SERVICE PART 1 Written by: Michael Mass

Contents:

Editor and Graphic Designer: Rafy Levy Contributing Editor: JoAnn Sperber AU photos are from the author's private collection unless otherwise indicated.

© 2007 AU rights reserved by Desert Eagle Publishing Approved by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) Censorship Bureau Printed in Korea

The Merkava Family, Names and Derivatives ...... ...... .... .... ......... 3

The Merkava Siman 3 in Action .. ......................... ........... ......... 9

The Man and the Machine .... .... .. .......................... ....... .. ..... .... 22

The Merkava Siman 3 in Detail ........ .............. ... ............... ...... 36

The Merkava Siman 3 in Detail-Power Pack ............ ...... ......... 67

Tactical Signs-No One Alike .. ........ .. ............... .. .. ................. 69

Modeling Merkava Siman 3 Baz .... .................... .. ......... ............ 72

Acknowledgements: We would like to thank the following for their support and cooperation: Lt. Colonel Ron Kamiely, commander Tel-Aviv IDF Censorship bureau Avi Landesman Tel-Aviv IDF Censorship bureau Our wives ... for their love and support Gilad Mass for his guidance Chan Kie Lee from Legend Pr~ductions We dedicate this book to all Merkava crew members of IDF Armor Corps who lost their lives for the security of Israel.

Desert Eagle PUBLISHING

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productions

ISBN 0-9788844-2-6

[over Page- A formation of two Merkava Mk 3 BAZ tanks belonging to the SUfa Battalion, 3rd Company completes maneuvers near Shifon Mountain in the northern Golan Heights.

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NAMES AND DERIVATIVES

THE MERKAVA FAMILY

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he name MERKAVA was given to the family of Israeli designed and produced Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) , a name that has several meanings. Chariot-ancient horse-drawn vehicle. A name that represents the vehicle that was in use by the army of the kings of Jehudah. Assembly-representing the fact that the production and assembly took place in Israel. in Hebrew the word "assembly", comes from the same root as chariot. Complicated-another word related to the same root in Hebrew as the above meanings of the word Merkava.

NAMES AND DERIVATIVES • THE PROTOTYPES-Developers built several mockups

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and prototypes during development of the Merkava tank. Developers built at least two concept demonstrators on the base of the Shot-Kal (Centurion) tank hull. In the concept demonstrator, the driver's compartment was originally in the right front comer of the Shot-Kal hull. Later, the compartment moved to the back of the hull, which became the hull's new front. Under this con­ fig uration, the driver's compartment was on the left side of the engine compartment and was opposite the original Shot-Kal's driving direction. For this hull, driving "for­ ·,'.rard" meant using the reverse gear. The Merkava's ~eshaped engine deck enabled improved visibility for :ne driver. Unlike the prototype from Latrun, based on Shot-Kal ", ::hout other Merkava features, the prototype in Jaffa ~as some hull shaping, cutting and welding that includes ~, e rear access door. The tank's battery compartment is :n the left rear of the vehicle and the nuclear-, biologi­ :~l- and chemical-filtering (NBC) equipment is on the :-:ght rear of the tank. The IDF built and tested a few pilot prototypes for ',--mous proving ground tasks. Merkava Mk 1 (Siman 1) -The Merkava Mk 1 entered service in the late 1970s, replacing the Shot-Kal --=:1ks of the Seventh Armored Brigade in the Golan :-::·ghts. At the same time, other Merkava Mk 1 tanks ~_:ered into service in the Armored Corps School 3:s a'sh) for professional crew basic training and with the - : '}th Brigade for tank and platoon commander training. ~:-. : t1erkava Mk 1 special design consisted of a front­ ; : 5:tioned 900-horsepower Teledyne Continental engine, .: ~:,d on the original Patton (Magach) 750-horsepower ~:-_:' !e, The engine was coupled with an Alisson automatic

.. One of the Merkava concept demonstrator prototypes is based on a Centurion hUll, with the driver's position near the original engine compartment. The ongi­ nal engine deck of the Shot-Kal (IDF dieselized Centurion) was reshaped for better visibility by the tank driver. This vehicle is on exhibit in the Yad La'Shiryon Memorial site and Museum in Latrun. The original final drives and sprocket wheels, found in the rear of the original Centurion hull, are now locoted in the hull's new "front. "

transmission, used extensively in the IDF. This design also featured a passageway in the back of the hull for easy entrance and exit from the rear of the tank. The passageway also enabled easy access for loading of ammunition and other equipment. The 105mm main gun was based on the standard can­ non, made by Israeli Military Industries (IMI), the com­ mon gun for all other IDF MBTs. The turret's low, narrow silhouette is one of the Merkava Mk l's unique features. The silhouette means less of the turret shows in observa­ tion or firing positions. The turret's narrow shape,

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.. A Merkava Mk 1 during 1982's Peace for Galilee operation in Lebanon.

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IDF ARMOR SERIES NO.2 - MERKAVA SIMAN 3

especially noticeable when looking at the tank's front, is smaller than the turret race (bearing) diameter. As a result, designers added two bulge castings to the turret's sides. The Mk 1's running gear consists of three dual suspen­ sions on each side. The design includes two road wheel ports, reminiscent of the Centurion tanks. The front and rear suspension units feature two spring assemblies on each unit, as well as linear shock absorbers. The sprocket wheels are in the front of the hull, on both sides of the power pack. The idler wheel and the tensioning mechanisms are fitted in the rear of the running gear. Besides the 105mm main gun, the Mk 1 also had three 7.62mm MAG machine guns-one for the commander, a second for the loader, and a coaxial gun placed to the left of the main gun. A 60mm mortar is outside the right side of the turret. The commander is operating the mortar manually. The Mk 1 tanks were in service during the Peace for Galilee operation in 1982 and participated in fighting in western Lebanon and Beirut.

• Merkava Mk 1 hybrid (Siman 1 Meshupar)-After several years of service in the front lines as part of the Seventh Armored Brigade, the Merkava Mk 1 tanks fin­ ished their regular service and went to Reserve units of the Armored Corps. Shortly after the new Mk 2 was developed, the IDF undertook an Mk 1 improvement program that included installing several internal and external components. This version became known as the Merkava Mk 1 hybrid.

'·'erko'la Mk 1 hybrid displays many of the tonk's spedal features, such as :- = ; - : r ;' ; r=-:; ,2 launchers, chains and balls on the turret basket, and newside --= -;' ~ :-- J 7dEls ' atch includes a mounted periscope that is visible .... - -:5

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.A. This side view of a Merkava Mk 2 of the Seventh Armored Bngade during training near Naffakh shows an advanced applique armor pattern, visible on the turret sides and side skirts along the hull. This tank features different road wheels, some made with rubber and some without.

Its main features included new side skirts supported by heavy-duty leaf springs, smoke grenade launchers on both sides of the turret front, flexible rear baskets for crew equipment and an improved commander's hatch with a large built-in periscope. Designers added a laser detec­ tor mast to the turret's roof and lengthened the rear hull service door handles. The changes were made in several stages. The later improvements included a new fume extractor for the 105mm gun and a new arrangement for using the open­ ing wrench. Improvements are continuously added.

• Merkava Mk 2 (Siman 2)-The Merkava Mk 2 was a significant step forward, with the addition of supplemen­ tal. second-generation armor placed on both sides of the turret and replacement of the Allison transmission with a new automatic version. The transmission, manufactured in Israel. helped the IDF realize substantial savings. The Mk 2 was fitted with two smoke grenade launchers on both sides of the turret's front. Each had six grenades. Designers replaced the Mk 1's external 60mm mortar with a new mortar, located on the left side of the loader compartment and operated by the loader from inside the turret. Installation of a new power pack, coupled with a larger exhaust grille on the hull's right console, required reshaping the engine deck of the Mk 2. Developers also added a new fire control system (FCS) and a laser detector mast on the turret roof. The Mk 2 used several types of armored side skirts, some mounted on rounded leaf springs and others on flat springs. The side skirts absorbed shocks experienced by the pivot­ mounted armor sections during the tank's maneuvers. A new designed basket was installed on the rear of

... .; Merkava Mk 2 and Mk 3D park side by side near Metula during the events of summer 2006. The tanks belong to the Bnei-Or Brigade and are i7.lipped with several adaptars. The Merkava Mk 2 on the right has only its right KMT (Nachri) adaptor, while the Merkava Mk 3D has a new front :::aotor for various assault purposes.

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-":.2 turret, and the unique suspension system included :": .e first reinforced road wheel on each side. That marked :. significant departure from the dish-type road wheels. >.2new wheels featured reinforcing ribs and weight :~:'Jction holes. Merkava Mk 2B (Siman 2 Bet)-The Merkava 2 underwent many changes during its service in the : ~:enth Armored Brigade and Reserve armored units. ::2signers added heavy-duty roof armor to protect the ~:':-l.k from aerial attack threats. Additionally, designers :':j ed flexible baskets for crew equipment at the rear : ~ :he hull. Further, the commander's hatch was replaced --::; ID improved one. _ ..:~

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with substantial attention paid to increasing the level of protection, both in terms of shape and type of armor. Unlike the exposed turret side bulges that covered the turret race in the Mk 1 and 2, long armor console modules protected the sides of the Mk 3. The power pack was another of the Mk 3's advance­ ments. The tank was fitted with a more vigorous power pack, which consisted of a new 1,200-horsepower engine designed by Teledyne Continental Motors (now part of GDLS). The tank also featured a more powerful automatic transmission. To complete the new design's power train, engineers kept the suspension concept of the former

Merkava Mk 2D (Siman 2 Daled)-Severe threats in :':.:: security zone in southern Lebanon prompted 1M1 to ~-=':2lop advanced armor for the Merkava Mk 2. The armor ,,·.: :: ~lement was extensive and contained a new turret =-":::2, including armor for the roof, hull sides and front :-.: :'ules, as well as redesigned side skirts. The Ordnance ::~s added new belly armor. The new version of the Mk = :'-50 was equipped with reinforced tracks, like those ~ '~ld on the Magach 6B Gal Batash. Aerkava Mk 3 (Siman 3 Ramaqh)-The Merkava _ :-: 3 was designed following multiple years of experience -_:.:. the Mk 1 and 2. The Merkava Program Authority __ :'_l1ta'k) and Merkava Development Center (Rapa't) _-':- 1duced three main improvements that resulted in a :::=-.:.rkable increase in the fire power, protection and =:.:-.euverability of the Mk 3, compared to Mk 1 and 2. >-eiopers redesigned the turret and hull extensively

.&.A Merkava Mk 2D of the Seventh Armored Brigade, near the village of Shtula,

a few meters from the international border with Lebanon, during the war in August 2006. The unique armor installed on the Merkava 20, with heavy-duty modules on the turret and hull, is clearly visible. The tank belongs to the First Battalion, according to the single white stripe painted on the gun barrel, and the number inside the brigade embLem painted on the left front fender.

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.& The Merkava Mk 3D of the Sufa Battalion parks near the village of Misgav-Am in northern Galilee after the battles of August 2006. The tank is part of the Golan (Third) Company, but does not have a company chevron marking on the side skirt. The white stnpe painted on the upper side of the gun barrel is evident.

Merkava models that was based on dual pivot arms, but adapted the individual trailing arms support by adding large coil springs and absorbing mechanisms. Developers also installed the Mk 3's road wheels with different gaps between the ports for better weight distri­ bution. The tank used a new wider track link, thus lower­ ing the Mk 3's ground pressure. The increased firepower resulted from developing and installing the new 120mm smooth-bore main gun. The meteorological sensor mast moved to the turret's left side from the right side of earlier Merkava models.

.& A Merkava Mk 3 Ramaqh of the Bnei-Chail Brigade, Second Battalion, Second Company, participates in maneuvers in the Negev desert. The tank shows the clear silhouette of the turret side. The brigade emblem appears on right rear fender with the number "2" for Second Battalion. The two stn'pes on the gun barrel also indicate that the tank belongs to the Second Battalion.

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Instead of housing the NBC filtering system and elec­ trical batteries in the rear chambers, the Mk 3 had two large fuel cells in the same location, completing the rear shape on both sides of the hull rear door and "building" the "leaving angle" of the tank. The turret's rear basket is similar to the Mk 2. The first Mk 3 model was named Rama'k, which means electrical mirror head. That term refers to the type of sight used for the FCS. Several improvements installed on subsequent Mk 3 Rama'k tanks were later retrofitted into early versions. Among the improvements were roof armor; a round hatch for the loader, which replaced the oval one; and a uniqUE air-conditioning system designated "Yoni." The air-condi· tioning system included four hoses in the tank, one for each crewman. Each hose connected to a crewman's overalls. The Merkava Mk 3 entered into service within the Barak Brigade, in parallel with the Mk 2's at the Seven Brigade. The armored Reserve brigades also used the Mk 3 tank .

• Merkava Mk 3 BAZ (Siman 3 BAZ)-EL-OP Co. developed an FCS that upgraded the tank's lethal capabilities. Designers added a panoramic sight to the turret's roof, enabling the commander to engage a second target while the gunner engaged with an earlier target. Experts consider the BAZ (Falcon) FCS a state-of-the-art electro-optic tank system.

NAMES AND DERIVATIVES

• Merkava Mk 3D (Siman 3 Daled)-Part of the : ~ ~ rkava Mk 3 BAZ fleet was fitted with additional turret :""--::lor within the production line. Developers installed -=- .- long armor consoles along the turret's sides. The ,·..::cessful and advanced turret supplement, installed on ~::ly early Merkava Mk 3 BAZ tanks, gave the vehicle ::3 name: Merkava Mk 3 Dalet.

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• Merkava Mk 4 (Siman 4)-The Merkava Mk 4 is ::-.e latest version in Merkava tank development. It is the ::=::st tank without the traditional air-cooled American­ =..:.de Continental Motors engine. The AVDS series of the ::::ner engines were used in all Magach (Patton), Shot­ :-0..') (Centurion) and Merkava Mk 1, 2 and 3 tanks. The :!::< 4 uses the MTU 1,500-horsepower water-cooled ~:-.;ine, similar to one used in the Leopard 2. -:'he Mk 4 also uses the 120mm smooth-bore gun, like ~.= Mk 3's, and the same suspension system. The most -...o:bLe change is the reshaped turret and hull, necessi­ -:::. :'2d by a new design of additional armor. The front of ~. 2 engine deck hull featured a flat shape, unlike the ': ·':·.ged decks of other Merkavas. Designers replaced the :~.oke grenade launchers, each with six grenades, with :":":J·in launchers inside the additional armor. Each side ~-:3 six built-in launchers. Another unique feature of the Mk 4 is the lack of '.: :.:ler's hatch to allow improved protection of the roof. -:-:-.e commander's hatch is extensive and operated eLec­ :::::ally. The commander's MAG 7.62 machine gun is on =- ~ ound rail, enabling the commander to operate the ~''::-. in all directions. Other Mk 4 tank innovations include a new FCS, cou­ ;~ "uwith electronic warfare capability. The panoramic =~ ~t of the FCS is in the left center of the turret's roof, ::::: osite its location in the Mk 3 BAZ. Sholef SPG (Tomat Sholef)-Manta'k asked the Group to develop a self-propelled gun (SPG) :-:32d on a Merkava chassis. The company built two :~: "otypes that used the Merkava Mk 1 platform ':: evaluations. The program ended because of high : :}:iuction costs. After this program cancellation, =? acquired more American-made Ml09A2 SPGs for ~.~ Artillery Corps. ~: ·.:am

Namer Infantry (APe version)-Manta'k developed :':-.t ther Merkava-based vehicle for the Land Forces ::. mand. Designers converted a Merkava 1 chassis into =- :teavy-duty armored personnel carrier (APC) called _.:....-ner, which stands for Merkava APC (NAg mash­

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Merkava Mk 4 passes afire caused by a mortar shell near the internab"onal border fence during the summer 2006 conflict. The tank belongs to the Second Battalion of the 401st Brigade. The new arrangement for the towing cable on the hull's front and the attachable belly armor are evident in this photo.

TWO BADGES OF BRIGADES

OPERATING MERKAVA SIMAN 3 TANKS

The emblem of the Merkava 3 Barak (Lightning) Brigade shows a sword on the background of the Haifa Bay (former Shot-Kal Brigade).

The emblem of the /~ e-t;o:o Ii !, 3 Egrof Va'romakh (Fist c a L nce) Reserve B'iqCO E (former A X1 3 8 '-:·qcC E:) .

PATCHES OF BATTALIONS

OPERATING MERKAVA MK 3 TANKS

A patch of Sufa (Storm) , the First Battalion of the Barak Brigade.

A patch of "Golan, the one'n' only" tank hunter team, of the Barak Brigade.

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IDF ARMOR SERIES NO.2 - MERKAVA SIMAN 3

... A prototype of the general purpose Namer in the 7000 Central Ordnance Depot shows the main features of a the Merkava-based APe, including a crane used by the company's technical team. The IDF also uses the vehicle for general purposes, such as medical evacuation and close support. This Name!, based on a Merkava Mk 3 chassis, uses road wheels with different gaps.

MERkava). The "NameI" also means "tiger" in Hebrew. This version was used by infantry in the same fighting echelon as the Merkava tanks and had the same maneu­ vering capabilities of the Merkava. Based on its experi­ ence during the 2006 conflict with HezboUah in southern Lebanon, the IDF has decided to build a large fleet of Merkava-based Namer APCs for regular mechanized infantry brigades.

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• Narner Fitter GP (Shin-Kaf/Chatap)-In order to give Merkava's technical teams a well-protected APC with maneuver capabilities similar to the tank's, Manta'k officials decided to build two more versions of a Merkava-based heavy-duty APC. The first was a heavily protected substitute for the widely used Ml13 Chata'p (company technical team) used in every armored company unit. The GP Chata'p APCs give close support that technicians need to perform light repairs in the field. The APC also can carry a medic and is caned GP APC. The APC is equipped with a medium-size crane and has a roomy compartment. The Namer has two 7.62 MAG machine guns mounted on a traversing rail around two openings in the vehicle's roof.

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• Narner ARV (Achzaka)-The armored recovery vehicle (ARV), the second Namer prototype presented by Manta'k,

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... This prototype of the heavily armored Namer APC was part , an exhibit at a low intensity conflict convention in 2005. It is Merkava Mk i-based APC with heavy-duty advanced armor moCr ules. The armor gives the crew the best possible protection. Th , APC can be equipped with various types of armament.

was equipped with a high-capacity lifting crane and large recovery winch. The Namer Achzaka (maintenance) has roles in second and third echelon recovery and mainte­ nance, similar to the M88Ai ARV already in use within the IDF.

THE MERKAVA 51MAN 3 IN ACTION

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erkava 3 Ramaqh during training maneuvers in the Golan Heights. The tank belongs to the First Battalion (SuJa) oj the Barak Brigade, First - ~ony (Aleph), Second Platoon commander. The tank commander is low in the turret, ready to operate the MAG 7.62 machine gun. The tip oj the :- _- :;arrel, which is not covered by the thermal sleeve, is painted matt black. The tank is equipped with two heavy-duty towing cables, secured on the ~-=-: ,'Je oj the hull. That arrangement is not typical oj all Mk 3 variants. .A !

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. . ......1.. "... . _.. ... - -Jther Merkava 3 Rama'k in a sharp maneuver presenting its "chains and balls" tilting in different directions. The tank belongs to the SuJa : ,--:-~.:on, Third Company (Gimel), First Platoon. The varying gaps between the road wheels' positions are evident. The insignia on this tank is visible _ ~ -:: turret basket's sides and on the second section oj the side skirts. -

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... A Merkava 3 creates dust and black smoke dun'ng training in northern Israel. The tank's commander and loader observe action to the left of the tank, where other tanks are moving fast. The Barak's marking of a five-pointed star is painted on the n'ght front fender, while the 3 Bet (third tank in Third Platoon) is painted on the left fender. Many hull front details are visible, such as the front pintles, attachments for the mine roller system (Nochn) and the main gun's travel lock. The turret's smoke grenade launchers are empty.

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THE MERKAVA SIMAN 3 IN ACTION

I·lerkava Mk 3 BAl comes to a hard stop. The front road wheels are pushed up because of pressure on the front of the tank. The roof armor and ~ :- .: ramic sight are visible and identify the tank as an Mk 3 BAl. It is the third tank in Third Platoon, Third Company. Its towing cables are on the - - - 5 left side for easy dismantling before use. Most wheels in this tank are made of steel, with the exception of the fourth wheel from the front, -': - has a rubber n·m. ... !

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... A convoy of Merkava Mk 3 • nics belonging to the Sufa Battal:ofl ;'O '{5 prior to an exercise in 'he G c)'" de;q 1:5. The twa closest tanks are 2 c~c; 2 32~ the Second Platoon, w' . e ~ - e -8":: ~ ', tanks are 1 and 1 Bet oj· 12 F";: 010:00n. All Second Compo y (BeL) ~ J,:s 'Jre iden­ bfied by the forl'larc·p i,~ :-' ~~ [he 0 insignia on the side sk:i::..S. T :', ' 9 cables are stovled and seG.rea ~o [' e turret's rear basket. The Bara, Brigaae l or, 'ng is painted an the ig ,t rear fender and the tank's tactical nick is on the left rear fender. All commander helmets and the crew's personal gear are positioned on the machine gun handle and turret's roof The - main guns are at 2 o'clock to enable easy access by the driver.

... --;; ::..;; " J/ ril e l1erkava 11k 3 SAl signals other tanks in the formation using flags. Colored flags are a traditional method of military communica­ ::- :: -. _;', ; flags saves the communications network from conversations dun'ng daytime hours of good visibility. Two grenades remain in the right Th e pattern of the armor on the engine deck and side skirts is clear. The armored shield for the gunners sight is folded up, leaving access .::; ­ [N; day channel through the slot in the shield.

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... A close formation of three l1erkava 11k 3 tanks in a training field in the Golan Heights shows various platoons joining a battle group, with com­ manders and loaders low in their turrets. Soldiers place stretchers, fitted on each tank's rear stowage baskets, on different sides. Dust and smoke mix to the right of the tanks.

THE MERKAVA SIMAN 3 IN ACTIO

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... :. rear view of a Merkava Mk 3 formation reveals a close tank with twa types of markings. Although it is painted and marked as the third tank :.: --:rd Platoon (1 Bet) on the left rear fender; it also has removable tactical signs painted an a rectangular piece of fabric an the turret's basket : ,- -:-:Dj'ing it as the second tank of Third Platoon. The Barak division mark is painted on the right rear fender of this tank, which belongs to the Third ; - 'id) Company. Folded stretcher cannect to the hull's left rear basket in all three tanks.

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... - e leading tank of First Platoon cammono'er splits fram the main farce while the third tank of Third Platoon moves forward. Both tO ri ,1es :=.: -; -_.__ Golan (Gimel) Company of the SUfa Battalion. Note that the antennas, one is thin and the other is thicker; are both painted off-'·· ' :~~ _:: - ~ ~ :ility. The towing cables in this tank are stowed at the rear of the turret.

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IDF ARMOR SERIES NO.2 - MERKAVA SIMAN 3

• This view of Merkava Mk 3 BAl shows the tank preparing to move. The commander, wearing his tankds helmet, gives last-minute instructions to the crew. The third tank in First Platoon of the Third Company (Gimel) has a pair of towing cables attached to the left side of the hull console. The markings are applied to the barrel, side skirts and tactical fabric panel using white paint and black shadow paint.

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• Rear view of a Merkava Mk 3 Rama'k in service with the Bnei-Chail (Braves) Brigade in the Negev Desert. The tank is second in the Second Platoon First Company, Second Battalion, according to its tactical markings. The brigade's tactical emblem appears on the right rear fender, with the number "2" marked inside the tank silhouette. The tank's unique chains and balls screen, hang from the bottom of the turret basket along the rear. The flexi­ ble rear stowage baskets fit to both sides of the hull's rear door, with a small foldable stretcher attached to the basket on the left_

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.... ~ Merkava Mk 3 points its gun toward the camera. The main gun is above the right front fender for easy access for the driver. The narrow silhou­ : ::= if the turret and the large width of the tracks are evident in this photo.

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---: view of a Merkava Mk 3 BAl shows a reinforced KMT 4-type mine roller device called Nochri Degem Gimel (Foreigner model (). The main differ­ :er

_ ~ :2tween the older Nochri and the reinforced version is the main arm structure. The older version, a replica of the Soviet-made KMT 4, is made of ;::;exi­ ::.. . :.=.: ;ound bars. The new Nochri Degem Gimel has a heavy-duty structure made of a rectangular cross-section. The main structure and concept are _ .. : - e, as is the operating procedure. A Merkava with Nochri in motion is an impressive combination, especially in close-up view.

OF ARMOR SERIES NO.2 - MERKAVA SIMAN 3

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The heavy-duty improved KMT 4 mine roller system (Nochri Oegem Gimel) is similar in its structure to the former KMT 4 Nochri Degem Bet. Unlike the direct attachment of the Nochri, which is welded to the rulers in the front of the hull on Merkava Mk 1 and 2, the Nochri Degem Gimel is attached to the Merkava Mk 3 using an adaptor, which is connected to the two front shackles on the tank's hull. Every Nochri system has an identifica­ tion number like every tank or vehicle in the IDF. That identifi­ cation consists of a Tsadi letter and six-digit number.

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A A left side view of the Mk 3 8AZ with a Nochri Degem Gimel mine roller system shows the angle of the smoke grenade launcher and the angled rear turret basket. The third and fifth road wheels has rubber rims, while the other wheels are all steel.

.... In addition to the Merkava's ability to push assault equipment like the Nochn' mine roller system, the tank also pulls and pushes bridges like the "Meyshar" sliding bridge, towed by means of a pair of chains connected to the rear shackles. A discon­ nection device connects to the chains. The loader or commander operotes the device using a rope hanging from the rea O, ':!' e turret basket.

IOF ARMOR SERIES NO.2 - MERKAVA SIMAN 3

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.A. Afront view of a Merkava Mk 3 pulling a "Meyshar" bridge using its rear shackles. The rope and chains that release the tank from its connection the bridge also connect the tank to the bridge so the tank can push the bridge toward an obstacle. The crew can lower the chains to a connecting anchor on the bridge, and adapt the bridge to the tank in a simple way, without leaving the vehicle.

• Merkava Mk 3 BAZ tows a "Meyshar" bridge during an exerdse in the Golan Heights. The angle of the right smoke grenade launcher is visible in this photo.

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THE MERKAVA SIMAN 3 IN ACTION

-'" -Meyshar" bridge, in a noncombat maneuver, is towed by a Merkava Mk 3 with its turret traversed to the rear, while the hull pulls the bridge ~ ':. The traversed turret allows the commander to have increased visibility amid other tanks and trees.

IDF ARMOR SERIES NO.2 - MERKAVA SIMAN 3

... A pair of Merkava Mk 3 tanks park side by side near the viI/age of Metula during the events of summer 2006. The tank at left is an Mk 3 BAl w: its narrow turret front silhouette, while the tank at right is an Mk 3D with its added-on turret armor modules that give the turret a much wider lOG Both tanks are part of the Second Battalion of the Bnei-Or Brigade.

...A tank convoy of the Barak Brigade crosses a road in the Golan Heights during maneuvers between training sessions. The Merkava Mk 3 Ramaqh uses tires spread on the road to prevent damaging the asphalt.

THE MERKAVA SIMAN 3 IN AC'rlON .. -, 2 markings on a Merkava Mk 3

of the Sufa Battalion, the 1st of - = 3arak Brigade, include a star '" - : ,em on the right rear fender and .:.-= r:'1 ain gun's single white strap. The as an 11 Gimel marking on the -s=- -Earfender. ~-i

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- :]l1k commander of a Merkava Mk

,OJrepares his crew to move. The

,'ghts are on and the main gun is

~:; in its travel lock. The tank

- - ~s to the 2nd Battalion of the

: -School, and is the 3rd tank in

::. : -1 Platoon of 4th Company. Note

'" :~ierent types of road wheels and

'" _--:]ins of sand and oil along the

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21

IDF ARMOR SERIES NO.2 - MERKAVA SIMAN 3

THE MAN AND THE MACHINE The Merkava Mk 3 crew consists of a commander, loader, gunner and driver. This is their story. Each crewman is trained to be skilled in per­ forming more than his own duties. For instance, the commander as a gunner, and the loader is trained as a driver. ~ A company commander in his tank secures his Glilon 5.56 rifle to the typical bracket. The commander wears fire-resistant Nomex overalls and gloves and a new helmet, which is based on the same model used by helicopter pilots.

T A commander and loader of a Merkava Mk 3 BAZ in their typical locations in the tank's turret. Many fea­ tures of the turret devices are clearly visible in this photograph, including the commanders and loaders machine guns, protected gunner's sight, panoramic sight in front of the commander, and detector on top of the gun shield.

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: =--ewmembers of a Merkava Mk 3 take a break between training sessions. They wear Nomex flame-resistant overalls and gloves, while their .:::-.:: vests and harnesses are left behind on top of the turret. The roof armor and empty grenade launcher are evident in this picture. The soldiers ~ _':::Jed with the IMI-made Galil rifles, with their stocks unfolded. - , =-,:,':

of a Merkava Mk 3 BAZ rests. The driver stands in his compartment sb'll connected to the VICl intercom system via the wiring harness.

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A Tank crewmembers listen to instruc­ tions given by the platoon commander in front of a Merkava Mk 3 tank. The stocks of their Ga/il rifles are unfolded. The smoke grenade launcher is shown here, with red stenciling on the upper side indicating the manufacturers name and catalog numbers.

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A tank commander of the Merkava Mk 3 BAl stands on the turret of a tank marked 11 Gimel on the tactical insignia panel. The soldier wears air­ cooled overalls designed by the Kinetics Co. The overalls feature a connection plug in the bottom of the front zipper. Note the three antennas and the different chain and ball lengths.

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THE MAN AND THE MACHINE

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_.:. 01. Ze'ev Sharoni, commander of the

:._=:: 5attalion at the time, gives instruc­

---, _sing a portable communication - .-~_ The officer wears standard Nomex - _.3. with the Suja battalion patch, ~ .- :"ries the shortened version of the

e- commander of the Land Forces, Uri Sagi, (standing at nght) . _ :'" early Merkava Mk 3 for a live -: "":.-:'""1tion. The officer at left is Col. : 10n, then commander of the Armor __ "Jte the early, longer version of ~ :~ . ,d sensor mast to the left of : :-_-::{ v/ater container. c~ -

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IOF ARMOR SERIES NO.2 - MERKAVA SIMAN 3

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A captain (Seren) leans on G 1151 soft-top vehicle. He wears Nomex standard overalls, v\lith the Sufa battalion Datch on tile left side of his chest. A tactical insignia pene! is attached to the spare tire of the 'Iehicle. T Two technicians from the Battalion Ordnance

Team (Macha'g) check a part removed from the /0k 3 povler pack because of technical failure. The tank's power pack was lifted and mounted on a five-ton Reo truck, equipped with a strong crane called chetz (arrow). The vehicle is mount­ ed on four hydraulically operated arms.

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THE MAN AND THE MACHINE

The co oorJ '5 :~:-- ' :.~. :~:­ (chata'p ) . 0":2.5 :-:: ::-::-:-: - : before removin" :' ~ :::.',:­ pack for repair 0 ' (j _~_~ . .: : ' . The upper mounted ceo ',; fans are clearly visible. l ate the easy accessibility to the power pack when the turret is traversed to 3 o'clock.

IDF ARMOR SERIES NO.2 - MERKAVA SIMAN 3

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THE MACHINE A ND_ THE MAN,. --=-_ main gun IS, sto red on both sides ,of 'dor between the fighting - - nition jor the 120mm ,--;; - --! 5 rear door, leaVIng , a clearh'cornrovides increased accessib il­ - ~ cmen , t and the rear door. T, IS =--: wounded Infantrym en on ,a ,stretcher

~

-• -- :;:'/s soldiers to carry , The shells are indIVidually for supplies. • -.:oers more room d to the hull. - - ~~':1 fire-resistant canisters secure

types 0if 120mm shells, - =-,: Jded J'fyom the transportation e -_ _~ :' age canisters to re-arm th Mk 3 tank. - ~ rent

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the - V,erkava Mk 3 crew unloads fy m . unition canisters J' 0 - - - amm , mainte­ · ' :ank in accordance With · -~ -egulatlOns. 'The tank belongs -- irst Platoon of t he 6th d Venus - --: - --ny In'the battalion as marke --- ~ left rear fender. Markings on --- bove the n'ght rear fender ;= - _ 'x a ks if terror­ - --te three killing mar 0 I - _·oar . - the bo~der. Although thehso ­ - . --~ I if!: wears overa lis , two ot er =. . s e wear main. tenance field cloth­ -;:- :~ d two types of field hats. --0

IOF ARMOR SERIES NO.2 - MERKAVA SIMAN 3

... Chata'p mechanical techrr dans add engine and transrr:. sion oils after re-installation ~ the power pack. Even during routine maintenance, the Ga. rifle hangs on the side skirt mounting for immediate use. The dusty and oily exhaust q­ adds color to the tank's sana· yellow appearance.

T The Armored Corps once arranged competitions between teams from different brigades to encourage excellence among the units. Various skills We demonstrated such as gunnery. maneuverability, and track removal and installation. Here, a Mk 3 crew workts to reconnect the track ends while thE driver (not visible) remains in his compartment for further commands. The working area is marked with white on the ground.

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