What are the chains on Merkava for?

Merkavas were converted into makeshift APCs or armored ambulances by taking out the palleted ammunition racks in storage. The installation of chain netting to disperse and destroy rocket propelled grenades and anti-tank rockets before impacting the primary armor increased survivability.

Why is it having many wheels and a metallic chain on wheels?

The weight of a tank is very high compared to a normal vehicle. If wheels were used the pressure on the ground would be so high that the wheels will go into the ground. So, to decrease the pressure on the ground the broad metallic strips are used instead of wheels.

Why do army tanks have caterpillar tracks?

Caterpillar tracks are helpful to cover large surface area and maintain friction and pressure with the ground. Answer: The caterpillar track is actually the belt with the help of which the army tanks move. This gives a larger surface area than the wheels and hence the pressure exerted ont he ground is reduced.

What is the purpose of the chain on merkeva?

The chains on a Merkeva are used to detonate incoming anti-tank missiles before they reach the tank. The warheads on anti-tank missiles use a shaped charge that when they detonate they focus the blast into a very small area, so they are able to push through as much armor as possible.

What is the Merkava main battle tank?

The Merkava main battle tank was the first military tank produced in Israel and is Israel’s main battle tank. Development of the Merkava began in 1967. The first prototype was finished in 1974 and production began in 1979. The Merkava MBT first saw combat during the 1982 Lebanon War.

When did the Merkava MBT first see combat?

The Merkava MBT first saw combat during the 1982 Lebanon War. Survivability is the focus of the Merkava’s design. The Merkava main battle tank has an engine that is located at the front, rather than at the back of the tank.

Is the Merkava still in service?

The original Merkava series remains in reserve use since the improved Merkava 3 and 4 are in service. In recent years the Mark I and II returned to active service in the role of heavy APC instead of main battle tank. Forward view of Merkara Mark I on display in a museum. Note the lack of machine guns normally fitted on the turret roof.