International debut for Israel's Newest Merkava Mk4

Israel's Merkava 4 with its Trophy Active Protection System to Become the Hub of Israel's Pavilion at Eurosatory 2010

Traditionally, the Merkava design provides the crew the best possible protection, employing a modular suite of ballistic and active protection means. The Merkava protection suite has recently been enhanced with the introduction of the Trophy Active Defense System, developed by Rafael, covering the tank through a 360 degree hemispheric defense against incoming anti-tank rockets and guided missiles. This new capability has extended the tank's modular special armor protection, developed by IMI. Other elements contributing to the tank's protection are the forward mounted power pack and advanced laser warning system produced by Elbit Systems.

Powered by a powerful 1,500 hp diesel, Merkava Mk.4 is designed to move through the most difficult terrain – from soft sand dunes to rough, steep, and rugged mountainous terrain. The entire drive train is produced in Israel by Ashot Ashkelon, which also provide the hydro-mechanical suspension responsible for extreme cross-country mobility demonstrated by the tank, while maintaining crew comfort, thus sustaining a high level of crew readiness.

The Merkava Mk.4 is equipped with the upgraded 120mm main gun firing advanced anti-tank and multi-purpose projectiles, developed and produced by IMI. Elbit Systems' El-Op division is responsible for the advanced fire-control system, gunner's sight and commander's independent sight. Elbit Systems also provides the gun and turret control system, utilizing powerful motors manufactured by Bental Industries. Elbit Systems has also developed the vehicle's unique battle management system, providing a clear situational picture shared by all crew members, as well as within the platoon, company and battalion, and, when integrated through the Digital Army Network, becomes part of a whole network-centric formation. All crew members are utilizing multi-function display screens developed by Nir-Or, enabling each crew member full access to operational video, data, communications and emergency functions.

Another company providing a major part of the tank's electrical systems is Imco Industries, responsible for the driver's and commander's panels, high current supply and etc. The tank is equipped with an advanced life support system, combining ventilation, Nuclear, Biological, Chemical (NBC) filtration system, individual cooling systems, and auxiliary power generator – all delivered by Elbit Systems' Kinetics.

The Merkava technologies were applied throughout the years in many other combat vehicles worldwide, new and upgraded alike. Many of these products are displayed at the Israeli Pavilion at Eurosatory 2010.

You are invited to visit the Israel Pavilion at Eurosatory 2010 at hall 6.

Our review of Eurosatory 2010 focuses on the following topics:

• Armor Protection, Armored Vehicles
• Army Aviation (Helicopters, Air Support)
• Combat Support
• Special Operations Systems
• Command, Control & Communications
• Counter IED
• Electronic Warfare
• Force Protection
• Integrated Soldier Systems
• Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance
• Remote Weapon Stations
• Training and Simulation
• Unmanned Systems and Robotics (UAV, UGV)

Companies participating at the show are invited to contact us and send previews of their products for coverage in our reports.