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Study Guide: The Merkava Main Battle Tank: Development, Variants, and Operational History

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The Merkava Main Battle Tank: Development, Variants, and Operational History Study Guide

Origins and Conceptualization

The Merkava tank's development was significantly influenced by the need to replace the IDF's aging Centurion tanks.

Answer: False

Explanation: While the Merkava did eventually replace the Centurion, the primary impetus for its development stemmed from significant armored vehicle losses during the Yom Kippur War, emphasizing the need for enhanced crew protection and domestic production capabilities.

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Major General Israel Tal is recognized as the principal advocate and guiding force behind the Merkava tank project.

Answer: True

Explanation: Major General Israel Tal was instrumental in advocating for and guiding the development of the Merkava tank, leveraging insights from wartime experiences.

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Initial collaboration between Israel and Britain on the Chieftain tank design preceded Israel's decision to develop its own indigenous main battle tank.

Answer: False

Explanation: While Israel did collaborate on the Chieftain tank design with the intention of purchasing and producing it, Britain ultimately refused to sell the tank to Israel. This refusal prompted Israel to pursue its own independent tank development program, leading to the Merkava.

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What was the primary impetus driving the development of the Merkava tank?

Answer: To create a domestically produced tank with enhanced crew protection and survivability following significant armored vehicle losses in the Yom Kippur War.

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Which individual is recognized as the primary driving force behind the Merkava tank project?

Answer: Israel Tal

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What factor prevented Israel's initial collaboration on the British Chieftain tank from resulting in the Merkava's development?

Answer: Britain refused to sell the Chieftain to Israel due to existing arms deals with Arab nations.

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What is the primary role assigned to the Merkava tank within the Israel Defense Forces?

Answer: Main battle tank and backbone of the Armored Corps.

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Development and Early Variants (Mark I & II)

The initial variant, the Merkava Mark 1, was officially integrated into service with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in 1979.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Merkava Mark 1, representing the original design iteration, was officially integrated into service with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in 1979.

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A notable improvement introduced with the Merkava Mark II was the relocation of its 60 mm mortar to an internal position for remote operation.

Answer: True

Explanation: A notable improvement introduced with the Merkava Mark II was the relocation of its 60 mm mortar to an internal position for remote operation.

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What notable features were introduced with the Merkava Mark IIB variant?

Answer: Thermal optics and fire control system updates.

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What specific enhancements were incorporated into the Merkava Mark II's fire-control system?

Answer: Improved meteorological sensors and thermographic optics.

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Advanced Variants and Modernization (Mark III & IV)

The Merkava Mark IID variant was characterized by enhanced armor specifically designed to counter aerial threats.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Merkava Mark IIC variant, not the IID, featured enhanced turret top armor designed to improve protection against aerial threats. The Mark IID variant incorporated modular composite armor for easier battlefield repair and upgrades.

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The Merkava Mark III's turret was engineered to maintain a fixed orientation relative to the tank's chassis, enhancing stability.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Merkava Mark III featured a significant upgrade where its turret was designed to traverse independently of the chassis, enabling more effective target tracking and engagement.

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The BAZ System upgrade for the Merkava Mark III incorporated a domestically developed air-conditioning system.

Answer: True

Explanation: The BAZ System upgrade for the Merkava Mark III incorporated a domestically developed air-conditioning system.

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The Merkava Mark 4 represents the first contemporary tank designed without a loader's hatch situated in the turret roof.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Merkava Mark 4 represents the first contemporary tank designed without a loader's hatch situated in the turret roof.

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The Merkava Mark 4 Barak variant incorporates advanced sensor suites for rapid target acquisition and possesses electronic warfare capabilities.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Merkava Mark 4 Barak variant incorporates advanced sensor suites for rapid target acquisition and possesses electronic warfare capabilities.

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Which Merkava variant was the first to be equipped with the 120 mm IMI smoothbore gun?

Answer: Merkava Mark 3

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Which Merkava variant was the first to incorporate a turret capable of independent movement relative to the tank's chassis?

Answer: Merkava Mark 3

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Which Merkava variant was specifically designed with enhanced turret top armor to counter aerial threats?

Answer: Merkava Mark IIC

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What does the helmet-mounted display system on the Merkava Mark 4 Barak provide to the commander?

Answer: A 360-degree virtual reality view of surroundings.

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What key advancements did the Merkava Mark III Dor-Dalet variant introduce, serving as a precursor to the Mark 4?

Answer: Independent panoramic commander's sights.

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What was the primary purpose of the 'Kasag' modular armor system employed on the Merkava Mark III?

Answer: To allow for rapid replacement and battlefield repair.

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What key feature characterized the Merkava Mark 3D variant?

Answer: Removable modular composite armor.

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For which crew member does the Merkava Mark 4 Barak's fighter jet-style helmet-mounted display provide enhanced situational awareness?

Answer: Commander

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Key Design Philosophy and Features

The Merkava tank's design incorporates a rear-mounted engine, a configuration intended to enhance crew protection.

Answer: False

Explanation: Contrary to the statement, the Merkava tank features a front-mounted engine. This design choice is integral to its philosophy of maximizing crew survivability by utilizing the engine compartment as an additional layer of frontal armor.

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The Merkava tank's distinctive rear entrance, equipped with clamshell doors, serves primarily aesthetic purposes.

Answer: False

Explanation: The unique rear entrance with clamshell doors on the Merkava tank is a functional design element, not primarily for aesthetics. It facilitates crew access, troop disembarkation, and auxiliary roles such as medical evacuation.

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The Iron Vision system provides Merkava tank crew members with a comprehensive 360-degree virtual reality view of the vehicle's external environment.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Iron Vision system provides Merkava tank crew members with a comprehensive 360-degree virtual reality view of the vehicle's external environment.

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The Merkava Mark 4's turret utilizes an electric drive system, not a hydraulic one, thereby reducing the risk of fire upon penetration.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Merkava Mark 4's turret utilizes an electric drive system, not a hydraulic one. This design choice eliminates flammable hydraulic fluids, significantly reducing the risk of fire if the turret is penetrated.

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The 'Mazkom' system integrated into the Merkava Mark 4 is engineered to mitigate track-shedding, particularly in challenging terrain conditions.

Answer: True

Explanation: The 'Mazkom' system integrated into the Merkava Mark 4 is engineered to mitigate track-shedding, particularly in challenging terrain conditions.

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What is the strategic advantage conferred by the Merkava tank's front-mounted engine configuration?

Answer: It provides additional protection to the crew by absorbing frontal impacts.

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What is the significance of the Merkava Mark 4's 'dry' turret design in terms of crew safety?

Answer: It minimizes the risk of ammunition cook-off if the turret is penetrated.

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What is the primary purpose of the modular armor system employed on the Merkava Mark 4?

Answer: To allow for rapid repair and replacement of damaged sections.

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What technological advancement, originating from the IAI Lavi program, was integrated into the Merkava Mark 4 to reduce its detectability?

Answer: Stealth shaping and radar/infrared signature reduction.

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What is the function of the 'Mazkom' system on the Merkava Mark 4?

Answer: A caterpillar track system designed to reduce track-shedding.

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The Merkava's rear entrance, featuring clamshell doors, facilitates its utilization in auxiliary roles, including:

Answer: A platform for medical evacuation.

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Armament and Protection Systems

The Merkava Mark 1 and Mark 2 tanks were equipped with a 120 mm smoothbore main armament.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Merkava Mark 1 and Mark 2 tanks were armed with a 105 mm rifled gun, specifically the IMI M64. The 120 mm smoothbore gun was introduced with the Merkava Mark 3.

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The Merkava Mark 3 and Mark 4 variants are armed with a 120 mm smoothbore gun that possesses the capability to launch anti-tank guided missiles.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Merkava Mark 3 and Mark 4 variants are armed with a 120 mm smoothbore gun that possesses the capability to launch anti-tank guided missiles.

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Merkava tanks are typically equipped with secondary armaments, including machine guns and mortars.

Answer: False

Explanation: Merkava tanks are equipped with a suite of secondary armaments, typically including coaxial and roof-mounted machine guns, a 12.7 mm heavy machine gun, and an internally mounted 60 mm mortar.

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The Trophy active protection system (APS) is engineered to augment the Merkava's offensive capabilities.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Trophy APS is fundamentally a defensive system designed to detect and neutralize incoming anti-tank missiles and rocket-propelled grenades, thereby enhancing the Merkava's survivability rather than its offensive power.

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The Merkava Mark 4M variant, designated 'Windbreaker,' is equipped with the Trophy Active Protection System (APS).

Answer: True

Explanation: The Merkava Mark 4M variant, designated 'Windbreaker,' is equipped with the Trophy Active Protection System (APS).

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The Trophy APS demonstrated ineffectiveness against threats encountered during Operation Protective Edge in 2014.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Trophy APS proved highly effective during Operation Protective Edge in 2014, successfully intercepting numerous incoming anti-tank missiles and rocket-propelled grenades.

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Slat armor was added to Merkava tanks during the 2023 Israel-Hamas War as a protective measure against heavy artillery.

Answer: False

Explanation: Slat armor was added to Merkava tanks during the 2023 Israel-Hamas War primarily to provide protection against drone-dropped munitions, not heavy artillery.

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What constituted the main armament of the Merkava Mark 1 and Mark 2 tanks?

Answer: A 105 mm rifled gun

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Which of the following is not typically considered a secondary armament found on Merkava tanks?

Answer: 20 mm autocannon

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What is the primary function of the Trophy active protection system (APS) as implemented on Merkava tanks?

Answer: To detect and intercept incoming anti-tank missiles and RPGs.

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What specific modification was implemented on Merkava tanks during the 2023 Israel-Hamas War to enhance protection against drone attacks?

Answer: Addition of slat armor above the turrets.

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Operational History and Combat Deployments

The Merkava tank's inaugural extensive combat deployment occurred during the 1982 Lebanon War.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Merkava tank's first extensive combat deployment was not during the 1973 Yom Kippur War, but rather during the 1982 Lebanon War.

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The Merkava Mark 1 demonstrated vulnerability to contemporary Syrian anti-tank weapons during the 1982 Lebanon War.

Answer: False

Explanation: During the 1982 Lebanon War, the Merkava Mark 1 proved largely resistant to contemporary Syrian anti-tank weapons, outperforming earlier tank models and demonstrating significant survivability.

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During the Second Intifada, Merkava tanks were never incapacitated by roadside bombs or mines.

Answer: False

Explanation: Contrary to the statement, Merkava tanks, specifically Mark II or III variants, were destroyed by roadside bombs and mines during the Second Intifada, resulting in crew casualties.

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During the 2006 Lebanon War, five Merkava tanks were reportedly destroyed, with tandem-warhead missiles being the primary cause.

Answer: True

Explanation: During the 2006 Lebanon War, five Merkava tanks were reportedly destroyed, with tandem-warhead missiles being the primary cause.

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Which conflict is recognized as the site of the Merkava tank's first extensive combat deployment?

Answer: The First Lebanon War (1982)

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What was the reported primary cause of Merkava tank losses during the 2006 Lebanon War?

Answer: Tandem-warhead missiles like the RPG-29 'Vampir'.

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Specialized Variants and Future Concepts

The Merkava LIC (Low Intensity Conflict) variant is specifically engineered for open-field engagements against enemy armor.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Merkava LIC variant is adapted for urban warfare and counter-insurgency operations, emphasizing survivability and effectiveness in close-quarters combat, rather than open-field engagements against armored formations.

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A Merkava 'Tankbulance' represents a modified Merkava tank configuration designed for medical evacuation and providing life support capabilities.

Answer: True

Explanation: A Merkava 'Tankbulance' represents a modified Merkava tank configuration designed for medical evacuation and providing life support capabilities.

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The Namer is an infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) constructed upon the chassis of the Merkava Mark 4 main battle tank.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Namer is an infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) constructed upon the chassis of the Merkava Mark 4 main battle tank.

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The Sholef was a prototype self-propelled howitzer that achieved full production status for the IDF.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Sholef was a prototype self-propelled howitzer based on the Merkava chassis, but it did not enter full production for the IDF, as the military opted for other artillery systems.

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The Carmel program is focused on developing a successor armored fighting vehicle that is lighter, faster, and potentially requires a reduced crew complement compared to the Merkava.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Carmel program is focused on developing a successor armored fighting vehicle that is lighter, faster, and potentially requires a reduced crew complement compared to the Merkava.

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The Tagash is an armored vehicle-launched bridge (AVLB) variant derived from the Merkava 4 platform.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Tagash is an armored vehicle-launched bridge (AVLB) variant derived from the Merkava 4 platform.

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The Sholef prototype was considered innovative due to its capacity for a rapid rate of fire, facilitated by an automatic loading system.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Sholef prototype was considered innovative due to its capacity for a rapid rate of fire, facilitated by an automatic loading system.

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The Merkava 'Tankbulance' variant is primarily utilized for:

Answer: Medical evacuation and casualty care under fire.

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Which Merkava variant was adapted for urban warfare, with an emphasis on counter-insurgency roles?

Answer: Merkava Mark 3 BAZ

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The Sholef prototype utilized the chassis of which Merkava variant?

Answer: Merkava Mark 1

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What is the Merkava ARV 'Nemmera'?

Answer: An armored recovery vehicle.

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Under a government-to-government agreement, which country received Merkava AVLB variants?

Answer: Philippines

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On which platform is the Merkava 'Namer' based?

Answer: Merkava Mark 4 chassis

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Which of the following represents a potential future armament option under consideration for the Merkava's successor vehicle?

Answer: Laser cannons.

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What capabilities does the Merkava ARV 'Nemmera' possess in field operations?

Answer: Towing disabled tanks and swapping backup power packs.

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Technical Specifications and Cost

The Merkava Mark 4 is powered by a diesel engine manufactured by the German company MTU.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Merkava Mark 4 is powered by a diesel engine manufactured by the German company MTU.

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The operational range of the Merkava tank is approximately 800 kilometers.

Answer: False

Explanation: The operational range of the Merkava tank is approximately 500 kilometers, not 800 kilometers.

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The Merkava Mark 4 has an approximate weight of 65 tonnes.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Merkava Mark 4 has an approximate weight of 65 tonnes.

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What is the approximate operational range of the Merkava tank on a full fuel load?

Answer: 500 kilometers

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According to available data, how many Merkava Mark 1 tanks were constructed?

Answer: Approximately 250

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What is the approximate cost cited for a Merkava IV tank intended for international sales?

Answer: $10 million

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What was the approximate weight of the Merkava Mark 3?

Answer: 63.5 tonnes

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What is the maximum road speed capability of the Merkava Mark 4?

Answer: 64 km/h

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What was the approximate number of Merkava Mark 2 tanks constructed?

Answer: 580

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