Overview
- Images and reporting published Sunday show a visibly upgraded VT‑4 variant, widely described as the VT‑4B, with thicker explosive reactive armour that extends lower on the hull and over parts of the running gear.
- The tank appears to replace the standard 12.7 mm roof gun with a remotely operated 30 mm weapon station to better engage loitering munitions, FPV drones, infantry and close anti‑tank teams.
- Observers and images indicate an active protection suite similar to the PLA’s GL‑6, with four turret‑mounted phased‑array radar panels for 360‑degree detection and twin interceptor launchers on the turret rear.
- Sensors and communications have been upgraded, including a large EO/IR commander pod and thicker stick antennas for higher‑bandwidth links, plus a small radio‑frequency array whose function remains unconfirmed.
- The VT‑4 is a proven Chinese export used by Pakistan, Thailand and Nigeria and the new variant is expected to be publicly displayed at the Zhuhai airshow in December, though formal confirmation of components and whether customers like Pakistan will buy the VT‑4B is pending.