IDF Unveils Its New “Lightning” Tank
Developed over five years by several Israeli defense companies, the tank is equipped with IA capabilities and other advanced features
Mandi Kogosowski
| 20/09/2023
Photo: IDF Spokesperson's Unit
The IDF unveiled its new ultra-advanced tank, the Barack (Hebrew for “lightning”), a Merkava Mark V that has been in development for the past five years and has just finished an extended trial run in Northern Israel.
The new tank, developed by the IDF and the Ministry of Defense, as well as by Elbit, Rafael, and additional defense companies from all over Israel, boasts some remarkable capabilities expected to revolutionize the battlefield.
The tank’s crew will be equipped with Elbit Systems’ smart combat helmet, which has been integrated into the vehicle. Using a network of cameras and sensors surrounding the tank, the helmet displays all relevant combat data on the visor and enables a 360-degree scan. This way, the combatants will remain inside the tank and will not have to stick their heads out in order to see what is happening around them, as has been the case up until now.
In addition to its scanning capabilities, the helmet incorporates artificial intelligence technology that identifies targets in real-time, which can then be easily transmitted to the other offense and support units. This allows communication with other teams on the battlefield, once again, without leaving the tank.
The Barack is also equipped with an improved fire-control system that enhances the effectiveness and precision of the vehicle’s strike; Rafael’s Trophy armored shield protection; advanced night/day observation systems; peripheral protection; and many other additional features and capabilities.
Developed over five years by several Israeli defense companies, the tank is equipped with IA capabilities and other advanced features
Photo: IDF Spokesperson's Unit
The IDF unveiled its new ultra-advanced tank, the Barack (Hebrew for “lightning”), a Merkava Mark V that has been in development for the past five years and has just finished an extended trial run in Northern Israel.
The new tank, developed by the IDF and the Ministry of Defense, as well as by Elbit, Rafael, and additional defense companies from all over Israel, boasts some remarkable capabilities expected to revolutionize the battlefield.
The tank’s crew will be equipped with Elbit Systems’ smart combat helmet, which has been integrated into the vehicle. Using a network of cameras and sensors surrounding the tank, the helmet displays all relevant combat data on the visor and enables a 360-degree scan. This way, the combatants will remain inside the tank and will not have to stick their heads out in order to see what is happening around them, as has been the case up until now.
In addition to its scanning capabilities, the helmet incorporates artificial intelligence technology that identifies targets in real-time, which can then be easily transmitted to the other offense and support units. This allows communication with other teams on the battlefield, once again, without leaving the tank.
The Barack is also equipped with an improved fire-control system that enhances the effectiveness and precision of the vehicle’s strike; Rafael’s Trophy armored shield protection; advanced night/day observation systems; peripheral protection; and many other additional features and capabilities.
