Main battle tanks are often classified as belonging to a particular generation, although the actual definition and membership in these generations are not defined. Soviet military planners organize tanks with the first generation of tanks up to 1950, and four generations of tanks^[1] (with the first main battle tank being the third-generationT-64), while American strategists organize main battle tanks into three generations.^{[Note 1][2]} The military of the People's Republic of China also recognizes three generations of its own tanks.

In 1973, Rolf Hilmes saw three tank generations and three "intermediate generations", which consisted mainly of upgraded vehicles.^[3] The first generation of main battle tanks was based on or influenced by designs ofWorld War II, most notably theSovietT-34.^[4] The second generation was equipped withNBC protection (only sometimes), night-vision devices, a stabilized main gun and at least a mechanical fire-control system.^[4] The third generation is in Western parlance determined by the usage of thermal imagers, digital fire-control systems and special (composite) armour^[4] (Soviet doctrine, however, de-emphasizes thermal vision and electronic fire control, preferring large-caliber guns and engines of high power).

However, Hilmes acknowledged that tanks cannot be definitively grouped by generations, as each tank-producing country develops and introduces its tanks in tune with its own ideas and needs. He also states that breakdown of postwar tanks by generations is based on timeframe and technical factors, as a basis for further discussion.

The first generation of "universal tanks" or "main battle tanks", Those tanks are usually Medium battle tank who turn out to match or outmatch the heavy battle tank in protection and or firepower, leading them to fill multiple roles.

Name	Year first built	Year entered service	Origin	No. built	Mass (tonnes)	Engine power	Range	Notes
Centurion[3][5]	1945 (Mk 1)	1946 (Mk 2) 1948 (Mk 3) 1955 (Mk 5)	United Kingdom	4,423[6]	51 t	650 hp	52–100 km	First "Universal Tank" (MBT) Culmination of the WWII cruiser tanks.
		1953 (C III) 1955 (C V) 1958 (C X)	Sweden	110	51–53 t	650 hp	52–100 km	Strv 81 and101 were theSwedish designations fitted with, Swedish machine guns and instruments.
		1958 (Pz55) 1976 (Pz57)	Switzerland	100 12	52 t	650 hp	52–100 km	Panzer 55 and 57/60 were the Swiss designations.
		1960 (Meteor) 1970 (Kal Alef) 1975 (Kal Bet) 1980 (Kal Gimel) c.1985 (Kal Dalet)	Israel	390	51 t	650 hp	52–100 km	Sho't is the Israeli designation of the105 mm L7 armedCenturion tank.
T-54[3][5]	1945 (T‑54)	1947 (T‑54) 1955 (T‑54A) 1957 (T‑54B)	Soviet Union	35,000	36 t	520 hp	330–440 km	USSR's First Generation of MBT.
		1956 (T‑54/T‑54A)	Polish People's Republic	3,000	36 t	520 hp	330–440 km	Produced under license in Poland.
		1957 (T‑54A)	Czechoslovakia	2,700	36 t	520 hp	330–440 km	T-54A produced under license in Czechoslovakia.
Type 59		1959 (T‑54A)	People's Republic of China	13,000	36 t	520 hp	450–600 km	Chinese-produced version of the SovietT-54A tank.
M48 Patton	1951 (T48)	1952 1953 (A1) 1955 (A2) 1957 (A3) 1975 (A5)	United States	12,000	45–49 t	750–825 hp	110–480 km	A further development of theM47 Patton tank. America's First generation of MBT
FV4202	1955	—	United Kingdom	3	41.5 t	520 hp	50–100 km	Prototype used to develop various concepts later used in theChieftain.
T-55[3][5]	1958	1958	Soviet Union	27,500	36 t	581 hp	400–530 km	ImprovedT-54.
		1964	Polish People's Republic	7,000	36 t	581 hp	400–530 km	Produced under license in Poland.
		1964	Czechoslovakia	8,300	36 t	581 hp	400–530 km	Produced under license in Czechoslovakia.
Type 61[3]	1956	1961	Japan	560	35 t	570 hp	200 km	First MBT developed and used by theJGSDF, built byMitsubishi Heavy Industries.

The second generation of MBT marked a turn in the doctrine. With the improvement of the ammunition, mainly theHEAT rounds, the thick protection was rendered useless unless the thickness was increased beyond their mobile capacity. The doctrine was then changed to focus more on the mobility and reduced the protection a lot. This generation was also marked by the utilisation of Night vision, new advanced ammunition such as the APDS, HEAT, HESH and later the APFSDS and also by the NBC capacity.

Name	Year first built	Year entered service	Origin	No. built	Mass (tonnes)	Engine power	Range	Notes
M60		1959 1962 (A1) 1973 (A2) 1978 (A3)	United States	15,000+	46–49.5 t	750 hp	450–500 km	A development of theM48 Patton. M60A2 and M60A3 are sometimes considered as the first intermediate generation. The M60A2 had a new turret housing an M162 152mm gun/launcher.
T-62	1958[a]	1961	Soviet Union	22,700+	37 t	581–620 hp	320–650 km	Development of theT-55, with a new 115mm cannon and enlarged chassis. First tank fitted with asmoothbore gun that could fireAPFSDS rounds. note that the Russian doctrine didn't qualify this tank as an MBT yet and still qualifies them as a medium battle tank to work with a heavy battle tank. such as the T-10 heavy tank.
		1978 1992 (II & III) 2000 (IV) 2001 (V)	North Korea	1,200+	37 t	750 hp	450 km	North Korean copy of theT-62 known as theCh'onma-ho.
Leopard 1	1961	1965 1970 (A1) 1972 (A2) 1974 (A4) 1980 (A5)	West Germany	4,744	40–42 t	820 hp	450–600 km	A main battle tank designed and produced in West Germany that first entered service in 1965.
Panzer 61	1957	1965	Switzerland	150	39 t	630 hp	250 km	Initially developed as thePanzer 58 medium tank and developed and redesignated into the Panzer 61.
MBT-70	1965	—	United States  West Germany	14	50.4 t	1470–1500 hp	644 km	An American-West German joint project to develop a new main battle tank. Never entered service.
Vickers MBT Mark 1	1964	1965	United Kingdom	376	38 t	535 hp	480 km	British private venture design for export.
		1965	India	2,200	39 t	535 hp	530 km	Vijayanta was the Indian license-built version of BritishVickers MBT Mark 1.
		1970	Kuwait	70	38 t	535 hp	480 km	Al Jahra is the Kuwaiti designation forVickers MBT Mark 1s modified fordesert warfare.
AMX 30 /AMX-30E	1966	1966	France	3,571	36–39 t	700–750 hp	450–500 km	TheAMX 30 served as the principal Main Battle Tank (MBT) for the French Army.
		1970	France Francoist Spain	299	36 t	670 hp	400 km	TheAMX-30E was a Spanish development of theAMX-30. 280 units were manufactured bySanta Bárbara Sistemas, between 1974 and 1983.
T-64	1958[b]	1963 (T‑64) 1967 (T‑64A) 1976 (T‑64B)	Soviet Union	13,000	38–42 t	700–1000 hp	500–700 km	World's first composite armoured tank. In Russian military theory, the T-64 is the first vehicle of the third generation.
		1999 (T‑64U / T‑64BM) 2004 (T‑64BM Bulat)	Ukraine		44 t	850–1000 hp	385 km	Ukrainian modernisation, bringing it toT-84 standard. Fitted withNizh reactive armour,9K120 Refleks missile, and a new engine, optics, and fire control system.
FV 4201 Chieftain	1959[c] 1966[d]	1967 (Mk 2) 1970 (Mk 3) 1975 (Mk 5‑8) 1979 (Mk 9) 1984 (Mk 10‑12)	United Kingdom	1,896	56 t	650–750 hp	400–500 km	First tank with asupine driver position. Designed to replace both the Centurion, and heavier Conqueror tanks.Chobham armour was tested on the FV 4211.
	1976		United Kingdom  Iran	185		650–750 hp	400–500 km	Project 4030 Phase 1 was an improved version of the Chieftain, featuring thickened belly armour, tank laser sight, and improved suspension, transmission, and fuel capacity.
	1977	—	United Kingdom  Iran	125		1200 hp		Shir (4030 Phase 2) was developed for export to Iran, featuring a new turbocharged engine, thickened belly armour, and a new transmission, suspension, and cooling system. It was cancelled in 1979 before any production vehicles were delivered.
		1981	United Kingdom  Jordan	274		1200 hp		Project 4030 Phase 2 Jordan, designated as "Khalid", is a further development from the cancelled Shir originally intended for Iran but renegotiated for export to Jordan, equipped with integratedFCS, tank laser sight, and day/night sights.
Magach 3		1967	United States  Israel	300	49 t	750 hp	480 km	Modernized M48A1/A2C/A3 including British105 mm L7 cannon, low profile commander's cupola, and an upgraded communication suite, engine, and transmission.
Strv 103	1963	1967	Sweden	290	42.5 t	540–780 hp	390 km	World's first turbine engine equipped tank, theStrv 103 is an indigenous turretless design that useshydropneumatic hull suspension to aim.
WZ-122[7]	1970	—	China	Only a few, project cancelled	<38 t	650–680 hp	—	Main battle tank developed by thePeople's Republic of China. Its development started in March 1970. After several prototypes were built, the plan was set aside in 1974.
Panzer 68	1971	1971	Switzerland	390	40.8 t	660 hp	200 km	Swiss vehicle based on thePanzer 61. Improvements consisted of wider tracks, stabilized gun, and replaces the coaxial 20mm gun with a machine gun.
T-72		1973	Soviet Union	25,000	41–45 t	780–840 hp	460–700 km	Hilmes puts theT-72 in the first intermediate generation. Post-1990's modernized versions are classified as third generation.
Olifant Mk 1 / Mk 2	1974	1976 1985 (1A) 1991 (1B)	South Africa	153	56 t	650 hp	50–100 km	ASouth African development of theCenturion Tank. The Mk 1 is largely similar to the Centurion, while the Mk 2 has many locally produced components.
		2003	South Africa	26	58 t	1040 hp	500 km
Type 74		1975	Japan	873	38 t	750 hp	300 km	Hilmes puts theType 74 in the first intermediate generation. Entered widespread use in 1980.
Magach 5		1976	United States  Israel	150	50 t	750 hp	480 km	M48A5 in the original configuration. Similar to the Magach 3, but had slightly different engine and transmissionContinental AVDS-1790-2D and Allison CD-850-6A accordingly. Eventually fitted with Blazer ERA.
Vickers MBT Mark 3		1977	United Kingdom	212	40 t	720 hp	400 km	A further development of theVickers Mk I MBT. Developed as a private venture, it has a new fire control system and is powered by aDetroit Diesel 12V-71T turbocharged engine.
Shir 2	1978	—	United Kingdom  Iran	250		1200 hp		Also known as "4030 Phase 3", the rear of the hull was similar to the previous Shir design, as was the gun and fire control, and automative systems, but it had new suspension and sights, as well asChobham armour on the hull and turret. It was cancelled before delivery, and the tanks already built were reworked atROF Leeds into theChallenger 1.
TR-77-580[8]		1979	Socialist Republic of Romania	405	42 t	580 hp	400–450 km	Romanian development of theT-54/55, with a longer chassis and 6 road wheels. It was intended to use the same engine as theLeopard 1, but the refusal ofKrauss-Maffei to deliver to a Warsaw Pact member meant that the V-55 engine was retained.
Merkava Mark I /II		1979	Israel	250	63 t	908 hp	500 km	First Main Battle Tank developed and used byIsrael Defense Forces.
		1983	Israel	580	60 t	908 hp	500 km	ImprovedMerkava Mark I.
Type 80/88 /Type 96		1980	People's Republic of China	3500	38–40 t	730 hp	400–500 km	Variants include theType 80,Type 85,Type 88.
		1997	China	>2,500	41–43 t	730–1000 hp	400 km	Domestic version of Type 85-IIM later known asType 96.
OF-40		1981	Italy	39	45.5 t	820 hp	600 km	Used byUnited Arab Emirates.
T-55AI Igman		1981	Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia	~20	37–45 t	~780 hp	~700 km	Yugoslav upgrade of theT-55A, sharing components with theM-84, a local variant ofT-72, whom it was in parallel development with. It include twoAT-3 Sagger missile rails, a meteosensor, smoke dischargers, spaced armour, and laser rangefinders from M-84.
T-72M/M1		1981	Czechoslovakia	1700	43.5 t	850 hp	480 km	Built under licence byZTS Martin. In Western sources it is often referred to as T-72G. In the late 1980s they received some improvements from the Soviet T-72A programme, including rubber side skirts (instead of "gill armour") and 902B "Tucha" smoke grenade launchers.
		1982	Polish People's Republic	1610	43.5 t	850 hp	480 km	A license-built export version of theT-72. Later models fitted with "Tucha" smoke grenade launchers and rubber side skirts, and have an additional 16 mm steel plate welded on the upper glacis plate, like in the T-72M1.
		1989	Soviet UnionBa'athist Iraq	500–750	41.5 t	780 hp	425 km (600 km with fuel barrels)	Iraqi-assembled version of the T-72M1 designated as theLion of Babylon.
		1982	India	1900	41.5 t	780 hp	425 km	TheAjeya MK1 was an Indian version of the T-72M1. In parallel with buyingT-72Ms off-the-shelf from theUSSR, India also domestically produced it atHeavy Vehicles Factory. The Ajeya MK2 is a development with ERA and 6 smoke dischargers on each side.
T-55 Enigma		1982	Ba'athist Iraq	8	41 t	520 hp	300 km	ModernizedT-55,Type 59, andType 69 tanks used byIraqi Armed Forces.
Type 69/79		1982	People's Republic of China	3200	37 t	580 hp	440 km	A further development of theType 59. Most advanced Type 79 variant was equipped with a 105 mm rifled gun which was also found on the Type 80 tank.
AMX-32	1982	—	France	6	38–40 t	800 hp	530 km	The AMX-32 was a French prototype main battle tank developed byAMX andAPX during the late 1970s as an export tank to fit in a specific market niche of nations with smaller defence budgets.
Tanque Argentino Mediano		1983	Argentina	280	31 t	720 hp	590–800 km	Medium tank (main battle tank) in service with theArgentine Army.
Bernardini MB-3 Tamoyo[9]	1983	—	Brazil	Only a few	30 t	500 hp	550 km	Designed byBernardini; it never passed beyond the prototype stage. The final model, the Tamoyo III was armed with aNATO105 mm L7 rifled main gun.
TR-85		1986	Socialist Republic of Romania	617	42.2 t	830 hp	400 km	Main battle tank based on theTR-77-580, designed for theRomanian Land Forces. 227 TR-85s were in service in 2017.
		1997	Romania	54	50 t	860 hp	400 km	TR-85M1 Bizonul ("the Bison") was a modernization of the TR-85 which began in 1996 to bring it up to date with otherNATO countries.
CM-11 Brave Tiger /CM-12		1990	Taiwan	450	50 t	750 hp	480 km	Variant based on theM60 Patton andM48 Patton.
		1990	Taiwan	100	49 t	750 hp	203 km	Variant fromM48 Patton.
M-55S		1992	Soviet UnionSlovenia Israel	30	38 t	600 hp	580 km	T-54/T-55 modernization developed by STO RAVNE andElbit Systems. Slovenia modernized the 30 T-55 tanks in its inventory. The last was modernized to the M-55S standard in May 1999.
Zulfiqar I		1994	Iran	400	52 t	780–1000 hp	450 km	Over 150 built, not including 6 prototypes.
Type 72Z		1997	Iran	400	36 t	780 hp	440 km	A highly modernized version of theType 59 andT-54/T-55 tanks with upgrades carried out by the Iranian Defense Industries Organization.
Al-Zarrar		2004	China  Pakistan	750	44 t	730 hp	450 km	An upgrade of Pakistan's aging ChineseType 59 tanks, developed with Ukrainian assistance and manufactured byHeavy Industries Taxila, fitted with a 125 mm smoothbore gun.
Ramses II		2005	Egypt	425	48 t	908 hp	530 km	A heavily modernizedT-55main battle tank designed for and used by theEgyptian Armed Forces.
Tifon 2a	2010	—	Ukraine  Peru	4	46 t	1050 hp	—	Main battle tank based on the SovietT-54/55 tank, developed and manufactured jointly by the Peruvian company DICSAC and theKharkiv Morozov Machine Building Design Bureau. Trials/Development only.
Sabalan		2014	Iran	170	50 t	750 hp	500 km	Iranian upgrade of theM47 Patton, It has side skirts and a new turret fitted with a 105-mm gun, laser range finder, new fire control system and communication equipment. Never used in active service.
Type 59G Durjoy		2015	China  Bangladesh	174	42 t	730 hp	450 km	An upgraded variant of the ChineseType 59 tank for theBangladesh Army.
T-55AGM	2016	—	Ukraine	4	46 t	850 hp	—	UkrainianT-54/T-55 modernization (also applicable to theT‑62) bringing them toT-80 standard. Fitted with a new engine and movement control system,ERA, countermeasures system,autoloader, and an anti-aircraft machine gun that can be operated from within the turret.

The third generation of main battle tanks is characterized bycomposite armour and computer-stabilized fire control systems, which allow firing on the move as well as very high first hit probability on targets multiple kilometres away. Many tanks had smoothbore guns with a calibre around 120mm.

Name	Year first built	Year entered service	Origin	No. built	Mass	Engine Power	Notes
T-80[10] /T-84		1976	Soviet Union	>5400	42.5–46 tons	700–1000 hp	First tank solely equipped with a turbine engine (theStrv 103 used a diesel engine alongside a turbine). Early models are considered as intermediate second generation, while T-80U (1985) onwards are third generation.
	1985	1987	Soviet Union	500–800	46 tons	1000 hp	T-80UD Bereza is a Soviet (xUSSR) version with diesel 6TD engine and remote-controlled antiaircraft machine gun.
		1999	Ukraine	55	46 tons	1200 hp	TheT-84 is a further development of theT-80UD. The T-84U is an upgrade with new side skirts,Kontakt-5ERA, muzzle reference system and some other improvements.
		2000	Ukraine	10	51 tons	1200–1500 hp	TheT-84 Oplot is a T-84U with a new welded turret and separate crew and ammunition compartments with blowout panels on the ammunition compartment, and a new bustle-mounted autoloader.
Leopard 2[11]		1979	West Germany	3600	~60 tons	1500 hp	Development of the Leopard 2 began in 1970. It is armed with a fully-stabilizedRheinmetall RH-M-120 120 mm smoothbore gun.
		1987	Switzerland	380	~60 tons	1500 hp	License manufactured inSwitzerland of theLeopard 2A4. It includes Swiss-built 7.5 mm MG 87 machine guns, communications equipment, and improved NBC protection system. DesignatedPanzer 87.
		1997	Sweden	120	~60 tons	1500 hp	TheStridsvagn 122 is based on the GermanLeopard 2 Imp utilizing newer technology such as command-, control-, and fire-control systems, as well as reinforced armour.
		2003	Germany Spain	219	69 tons	1500 hp	TheLeopard 2E is derived from theLeopard 2A6, with greater armour protection, developed as a co-production between the defence industries ofSpain andGermany.
		2006	Greece	170	~60 tons	1500 hp	TheLeopard 2 HEL is a derivative of the Leopard 2A6 that was ordered by theGreek Army in 2003. Around 170 tanks were delivered between 2006 and 2009. A total of 140 were built in Greece byELBO, which delivered the first units in late 2006.
		2007	Germany Canada	20	~60 tons	1500 hp	TheLeopard 2A6M CAN turret is modified to include stand-offslat armour. The first 20 were loaned from the GermanBundeswehr to increase firepower and protection given to Canadian troops operating in the south ofAfghanistan. The loaned tanks retain their GermanMG3 machine gun. Ex-Dutch ones are also expected to retain theirFN MAG machine guns due to commonality with the Canadian C6 GPMG, a variant of the FN MAG
MBT-80	1980	—	United Kingdom	17	62 tons	1500 hp	The FV4601 MBT-80[12] was a British experimentalthird-generationmain battle tank, designed in the late 1970s to replace theChieftain tank. It was eventually cancelled in favour of theChallenger 1, itself an evolution of the Chieftain design.
M1 Abrams	1979	1980	United States	10,400	60–74 tons	1500 hp	M1A1 production began in 1985, and featuredNBC protection, theM256 gun replaced theM68. TheM1A2 began production in 1986 and entered service in 1992, and offers an independent hunter-killer thermal sight anddepleted uranium armour. The System Enhancement Package in 1992 integrated graphite-coated third generationdepleted uranium armour.
Challenger 1		1983	United Kingdom	420	62–70 tons	1200 hp	Replaced theChieftain. It is armed with a fully-stabilizedL11A5 120mm rifled gun, an improved version of the Chieftain's gun. The Challenger 1 is powered by aRolls-Royce Condor V12 turbocharged diesel engine. With the introduction of theChallenger 2 into British service, the retired now surplus Challenger 1s were exported toJordan at no cost.
AMX-40	1983	—	France	4	44 tons	1100 hp	A replacement for theAMX-32, it was designed to be inexpensive for militaries with smaller defence budgets, and featured a lightly armoured hull and good mobility, however it failed to attract interest and sales, and was discontinued in 1990.
M-84	1983	1984	Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia	650	41.5 tons	1000 hp	The M-84 is essentially a license-built SovietT-72 with a number of Yugoslavian sub-systems. By 1992 over 600 had been built. Currently operational with some countries of the formerYugoslavia andKuwait.
	1991	—	Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia	2		1200 hp	The M-91 Vihor is a Yugoslav prototype, based on theM-84, which is in turn a domestic copy of theT-72. Due to thedisintegration of Yugoslavia, it never entered production, and only a few prototypes were made for testing. Its development later led to theM-95 Degman.
	1995	—	Croatia	2	48.5 tons	1200 hp	TheM-95 Degman is a Croatian main battle tank prototype, developed by theĐuro Đaković and developed from the M-91 Vihor tank derived from the T-72. It did not enter full production.
		2004	Serbia	~5	45 tons	1200 hp	TheM-84AS is an upgraded Yugoslav version of theM-84 tank. M-84AS is sometimes referred to asM-84AB1 andM-2001.
		2018	Croatia	2 prototypes		1200 hp	TheM-84D is an upgraded version of theM-84 with improvements to its armor, armament, mobility and electronics. 75 to be upgraded, possibly replacing the 125mm 2A46 gun with a NATO 120mm gun.
		2017	Serbia	10	45 tons	1000–1200 hp	TheM-84AS1 and M-84AS2 are substantially modernized versions of theM-84 designed by theMilitary Technical Institute and produced by Technical Overhauling Institute "Čačak". Improved revisions were presented in 2020 and 2021.
EE-T1 Osório	1985	—	Brazil	2 prototypes	40.9–43.7 tons	1100 hp	The EE-T1 Osório was a Brazilian prototype developed byEngesa. Intended first to be exported to other countries, enabling theBrazilian Army to later place orders without having to fund development costs. Initially privately funded by Engesa, but cashflow issues led to theBrazilian government extending a loan to assist the program. It was never adopted for service.
K1 /K1A1	1985	1987	South Korea	1,027	51.1 tons	1200 hp	Referred to as the "Type 88" by American engineers. First Main Battle Tank in use with theRepublic of Korea Armed Forces, designed by General Dynamics.[13]
	1996	2001	South Korea	484	53.2 tons	1200 hp	TheK1A1 is an improved version of theK1, developed byHyundai Rotem. It is similar to the USM1A1 Abrams in terms of firepower and protection. Production began in 1996, however it only entered service with the ROK Army in 2001. Production ceased in 2010. A total of 484 of these tanks were built.
TR-125		1987	Socialist Republic of Romania	5–10	50 tons	900 hp	Prototype main battle tank is a redesignedT-72 made with Romanian components only. It is now designated P-125 (P stands for Prototype).
Merkava Mark III /IV		1989	Israel	780			The Mark III was retired from active service in 2022 but is still the most numerous tank in theIDF's arsenal. Compared to theMark II, it has upgrades to the drivetrain, powertrain, armament, and electronic systems. It incorporates the locally developedIMI 120 mm gun.
		2004	Israel	360			It is a further development of theMerkava Mark 3. In 2014 it was reported, that Israel will begin exporting a number of these tanks to an undisclosed customer.
Type 90	1976	1990	Japan	341			Intended to replace theType 61 medium tanks in service withJGSDF. It is armed withRH-M-120 120 mm smoothbore gun and fires HEAT-MP and APFSDS-T rounds, but is compatible with all standardNATO 120 mm tank ammunition.
Pokpung-ho II		1992	North Korea	200–500			A further development ofCh'onma-Ho. The tank may incorporate technology found in theT-62,T-72, andCh'onma-ho MBTs. The P'okp'ung-ho is only known to be used in North Korea.
Leclerc	1990	1992	France	862			ReplacedAMX 30. Development began in 1978 with prototypes ready in 1989. Named in honor ofPhilippe Leclerc. It is in service withFrance andUnited Arab Emirates.
Tank Technology Demonstrator (TTD)	1992	—	South Africa	1			A prototype main battle tank completed in the early 1990s. It shared some technology with theLeopard 2 and was intended to replace ageing South African MBTs., but didn't go into service because of funding issues. Some of the subsystems were applied to theOlifant Mk 2.
T-90		1992	Russia	750–1,000			Deep modernization of theT-72B; originally introduced into service in October 1992 as T-72BU, but simultaneously renamed as the T-90.
T-72M2 Moderna	1993	—	Slovakia	1			A further development of the T-72M1A. Development was completed but without any order for tank fleet modernization.
PT-91 Twardy		1995	Poland	281			A development of theT-72M1. The PT-91 Twardy is an improved variant of the SovietT-72. Production for Poland was completed in 2002. A total of 233 tanks were delivered. Malaysia ordered 48PT-91M Pendekar which were delivered in 2007–2009.
		2016	Poland	—			ThePT-16 is a further development ofPT-91 Twardy. Claimed proposed upgrades include improved armor, armament, and mobility. Only non functional mock-up ever built. Prototype never built.[further explanation needed]
Ariete	1989	1995	Italy	200			Developed byIveco andOTO Melara. Named in honour of theWW2"Ariete" Armored Division. It was intended to replaceM60A1 in service withItalian Army. First prototype was revealed in 1986 and six pre-production vehicles were built in 1989. It entered service in 1995.
Zulfiqar II	1997	—	Iran	Few prototypes			Interim development between theZulfiqar I andIII, derived from the former. It had an extended hull and a new engine. It also had a new sloping turret with a bustle at the rear. It never entered service.
Challenger 2	1993	1998	United Kingdom	447			A further development and redesign of theChallenger 1. Currently the Challenger 2 is in service withUnited Kingdom (386) andOman (38). Armed with the British 120 mmL30 rifled gun.
T-72M1S		1998	Syria Italy	124			Syrian-Italian upgrade with the addition of the Galileo Avionica TURMS-T computerised FCS, infrared cameras, improved gun and sight stabilisation, and9M119 Svir/Refleks launch capability. Between 1998 and 2000, T-72M1s and T-72AVs were upgraded to this standard, with very few of the upgraded T-72AVs retaining theirERA after being upgraded.
Black Eagle	1999	—	Russia	1			The Black Eagle tank (Object 640), was a presumed prototype Russian tank, thought to have been developed in the late 1990s. A production version of this tank has never been publicly demonstrated. It is aT-80 variant which has helped development of theT-14 Armata.
T-95	2000	—	Russia	2			T-95 (Object 195), was developed atUralvagonzavod from 1988 until its cancelation in 2010. Little about it is publicly known. Work from it was used in theT-14 Armata, which began production in 2016.
Zulfiqar III		2000	Iran	100–250			The most advanced variant of the Zulfiqar family, bearing a resemblance to theM1 Abrams. It features upgrades to the fire-control system, chassis, engine and main gun. The new variant is equipped with anautoloaded2A46 125 mm smoothbore cannon, laser rangefinder and a new fire-control system.
M60-2000	2001	—	United States Turkey	1			The M60-2000 or 120S was initially aimed at theTurkish Land Forces Command (TLFC)M60 upgrade requirement but this competition was subsequently won byIsrael Military Industries with theirSabra II upgrade. TheEgyptian Army was considering this offer until it was finally rejected in favor of a licensed contract to buildM1s inEgypt.[14] Only one prototype was made.
Type 99		2001	People's Republic of China	1200			It is a development of theType 98. The Type 99 was revealed in 2000 and entered service with theChinese Army in 2001. It shows a mixture of Russian and Western influence in its design and technology. An improved version was presented in 2017. Currently it is the most advanced Chinese MBT.
MBT-2000/Al-Khalid[15]		2002	People's Republic of China Pakistan	994			Jointly developed byChina andPakistan. It is a further development of the Chinese Type 90-II tank, which was not accepted to service with theChinese Army. In the late 1990s it was marketed for export as theMBT-2000. Pakistan acquired a production license. Named afterKhalid ibn al-Walid. First deliveries of this tank were made in 2002. It is currently in service with Pakistan.
		2009	People's Republic of China Pakistan	150			Al-Khalid I is an upgraded variant with additional ammunition capacity. It has an improved fire-control system with a more advanced multi process fire control computer with up to 7 km effective identification range.
Tank EX	2002	—	India	9			Experimental hybrid prototype with turret ofArjun and hull ofT-72. It underwent six months of trials, but was subsequently rejected by theIndian Army.
Pokpung-ho III		Between 1992 and 2002	North Korea	200–500			Outside parties codename the tank M-2002 because the tank went through performance trials on February 16, 2002 (therefore being officially confirmed by outside sources), although the tank may have been in existence since 1992.
T-72M4CZ[16]		2003	Czech Republic	30			Upgraded Czech version of theT-72 tank. The T-72 main battle tank was licensed-produced in the formerCzechoslovakia but afterits dissolution in the early 1990s, upgrade programs were developed both inCzechia andSlovakia to keep their fleets ofT-72 MBTs operational and combat capable.
M60 Phoenix		2004	Jordan	182			The M60 Phoenix is a Jordanian upgrade of theM60A3 main battle tank. The gun was replaced by a Swiss RUAG CTG fully-stabilized 120 mm/L50 smoothbore gun, compatible with all standard NATO 120 mm tank ammunition.
Arjun Mk 1	1996	2004	India	141			The first prototype was built in 1989, and 15 pre-production prototypes by 1996. Production variant entered service in 2004. MK1A variant of Arjun was developed and entered service with the Indian Army in 2021.
C2 Ariete		2005	Italy	200			The C2 Ariete was revealed in 2005. It has a modular armor, 120 mm smoothbore gun fitted with an autoloader, hydropneumatic suspension, 1500 hp engine and more advanced fire control system.
Mobarez		2006	Iran	50			A domestically upgraded version of the BritishChieftain tank byIran.
T-90S Bhishma		2006	India	330			An improved T-90S developed with assistance fromRussia andFrance. Equipped with the French Thales-built Catherine-FC thermal sights, RussianKontakt-5 explosive reactive armour, in addition to primary armor which consists of laminated plates and ceramic layers with high-tensile properties.
Type 96A/B		2006	People's Republic of China	2500	42.8 tons		It is an upgraded version of theType 96, fitted with explosive reactive armor and thermal imaging system, intended to approach theType 99 in overall performance. It is also proposed for export customers as the VT2B. In 2016 a new version emerged, fitted with a new engine and various improved systems.
Sabra Mk I /II		2007	United States Israel	630			An extensively upgradedM60 Patton tank developed byIsrael Military Industries.
		2009	Israel Turkey	450			TheSabra Mk II is known as theM60T in Turkish service.
M60A3 SLEP		2019	Taiwan	—			Taiwanese 2019 Service Life Extension Program (SLEP) modular update of theM60A3 in conjunction withElbit Systems. IncludesMG251/L44 120 mm gun with a semi-automatic load assist, Elbit KnightFCS, laser range finder, an independent commander's thermal sight, anRWR/IR warning system, improved suspension and NBC protection, and modular active and reactive armour packages.
Cheonma-2		2020	North Korea	9			First seen during the75th anniversary of the Worker's Party military parade. Initially given the unofficial name "M2020" by South Korean media. Its design resembles the American M1 Abrams, Russian T-14 Armata and the Iranian Zulfiqar. It is equipped withcomposite armour and possibly anautoloader. The armament is believed to be the Soviet2A46 125 mm gun, a RussianAGS-30 automatic grenade launcher, twoBulsae 3 ATGM and an unidentifiedco-axial machine gun.

An intermediate generation of third-generation tanks modernized with fourth-generation technology.

Name	Year first built	Year entered service	Origin	No. built	Mass	Engine Power	Notes
Leopard 2NG	2011	—	Germany  Turkey	1	65 tons		The Leopard 2NG (Next Generation) is a privately funded Turkish upgrade byASELSAN that includesAMAP, upgraded optics, overhauled turret mechanics, and a new fire control system which is also intended to be used on the newAltay MBT. It was developed without an order from theTurkish Army, but might meet the requirements for the modernization of the Turkish Leopard 2A4s.
Mark 4M Meil Ruach		2011	Israel	300			Merkava Mark IV equipped with theTrophy active protection system (APS), designated "Meil Ruach" (Hebrew: מעיל רוח; "Windbreaker"). The Merkava IVm now equips all active service combat brigades.
T-84 Oplot-M		2013	Soviet Union  Ukraine	54	51 tons		The newest and most sophisticated version of theT-84 is an upgraded version of the "T-84 Oplot" mounting more advanced armor, new electronic countermeasure systems, and the new PNK-6 panoramic tank sight. The T-84 Oplot-T is an export version forThailand.
T-90MS/M		2013	Soviet Union  Russia	100[17]			The main features include the modernisation of the old turret design, which is equipped with the advanced "Kalina"fire control system, improved armour on the ammo carousel, and an upgraded2A46M-5 gun, as well as a remote-controlled anti-aircraft gun "UDP T05BV-1". T-90MS is the export version, also known as T-90SM.
K1A2		2013	South Korea	480			Upgraded variant of the K1A1 with the technology of theK2 Black Panther. It features additional systems such as a digitalbattlefield control system,IFF system, front andrear surveillance camera andnavigation system, and with improved real-time information sharing, inter-combat vehicle operation, friendly fire prevention and driver operability.[18]
Type 99A		2014	China	600		1500 hp	The Type 99G is a Chinese main battle tank. It is an improved version of theType 99, which was adopted by theChinese Army back in 2001. This tank is also referred as the Type 99A, Type 99A1 and Type 99A2. It has a number of improvements over the baseline Type 99, related with fire control, targeting and countermeasures systems and modified suspension.
Leopard 2A7+		2014	Germany	106			The 2A7+ has improved mobility, sustainability, and due to a modular protection kit, improved survivability. Its modular design makes it suitable forurban warfare and high-intensity conflicts. It has advancedIED, mine, andRPG protection. It can fire programmable HE munitions enable it to engage targets behind cover and is equipped with theFLW200 remote weapon station.[19] The tank also has an adaptable dozer blade to clear obstructions, and third generation thermal sights for both commander and gunner. Hungary ordered 44 of these, making them the second operator of the improved version, after Qatar.
VT-4		2016	China	<100	57 tons	1200 hp	The VT4 is a Chinese main battle tank, developed specially for export. It is also known as theMBT-3000. It is being marketed byNORINCO. This tank can be seen as a simplified export version of the Type 99G, which is used by the China's Army. The VT4 is a further development of theVT1A, which is in turn a downgraded export version of theType 99.
T-80BVM		2017	Soviet Union  Russia	>220			Up to 300 units, new "Relikt"ERA, PNM Sosna-U gunner sight (as inT-90 andT-72B3), improved2A46M-4 125mm gun, upgraded gas turbine engine, and upgrade of various other systems. Currently being delivered.
M1A2 SEPv3 /SEPv4	2015	2017	United States	154			The SEPv3 (formerly M1A2C) has improved power and communications systems, an auxiliary power unit, improvedFLIR cameras and counter-IED armour,CROWS, and replaceable modules for improved maintenance. Passive protection added to the turret faces, with newERA andTrophy APS added to the turret sides. It can also fire airburst rounds.
		2023	United States	—			The commander and gunner's sights would have been be upgraded third-genFLIR, an improved laser rangefinder and color cameras. It would also have featured an advanced meteorological sensors, theAN/VVR-4 LWS, a new smoke grenade system, and theM1147 advanced multi-purpose tank (AMP) round. SEPv4 was cancelled in 2023 in favor of a new M1E3 which will include many of the SEPv4's features while reducing the tank's weight.[20]
Karrar		2017	Iran	800	51 tons		Iranian MBT claimed to be on a par with the RussianT-90M and AmericanM1A2. Both Iran and Russia, however, deny any Russian involvement in the project outside of the hull's original production.
Leopard 2PL[21]		2020	Poland  Germany	142			Modernized version of theLeopard 2A4 used by thePolish Armed Forces. The upgrade included a new commander's control and monitoring system, an auxiliary power unit, new turret stowage compartment for crew equipment, upgrade of its main gun to use new programmable ammunition, and integrated day/night rear camera for the driver.
Arjun MK 1A		2021	India	17			An improvement of theArjun. It has a redesigned turret protected with Kanchan composite armour,ERA andNERA, ALWCS active protection system andDRDO-developed health monitoring system. Arjun MK1A has capability to fire indigenousSAMHO gun-launched dual purpose missile.
Ariete AMV		2022[22]	Italy	125		1500 hp	The Ariete AMV is a mid life update and includes upgraded transmission and engine, new tracks, new electronics and optronics (LOTHAR SD for the gunner, Multispectral ATTILA D for the commander), add-on armor and mine protection and integration of SICCONA battlefield management system.
Merkava IV Barak		2023	Israel	—			The "Barak" (Lightning) is entered service in 2023. It has upgradedTrophy APS, day/night cameras, aheads-up display for the tank commander, and new sensors enabling it toindependently acquire and strike targets, in addition toelectronic warfare capabilities, and a directed energy system capable of intercepting drones and cruise missiles.
Haider MBT		2024	People's Republic of China  Pakistan	—		1200 hp	Main battle tank designed and manufactured by theHeavy Industries Taxila for thePakistan Army. It has various improvements, and features 125mm smoothbore gun, advanced fire control system,sensors, and targeting devices, and new composite armor and ERA.[23][24][25]

The next generation of main battle tanks in development has autoloaders becoming increasingly more common, even in western designs, with some moving all of the crew into a more heavily protected hull space with unmanned turrets. The tendency to increase calibre sizes continues, with multiple designs having capability for 140mm guns to be fitted. A greater focus onactive protection systems, especially against drones andloitering munition is also present, as is the introduction ofAI-assisted systems.^[26]

Name	Year first built	Year entered service	Origin	No. built	Mass	Engine Power	Notes
Type 10[27][better source needed]	2010	2012	Japan	117	40–48 tons	1200 hp	Additional emphasis was placed onC4I capabilities. An autoloader reduces reload time to about 3.5 seconds. It also features configurable modular armour. The reduced size and weight means that 84% of Japan's bridges are passable for the Type 10, compared to only 65% for the Type 90 and 40% for typical western MBTs.
K2 Black Panther[28][better source needed]	2008	2014	South Korea	260	55–56 tons	1500 hp	Development was completed in 2008, but production was delayed to develop a domestic power pack, and it began to be service with theSouth Korean Army from 2014. For the fourth batch, 150 units will be produced from 2024 to 2028.
T-14 Armata	2015	2024	Russia	"Low Tens"[29]	55 tons	1200–2000 hp	Not in active service. In 2015, 12 prototypes were delivered, while at the end of 2021,Rostec announced the start of serial production of 40 (which as of 2023 yet to be produced). It has "Malakhit" add-onERA, and an unmanned turret with anelectrically stabilised 2A82 125mm smoothbore gun.
Leclerc XLR	2018	2023	France	>15[30]	~60 tons	1500 hp	Newest upgrade package part of the SCORPION program. Inclusion of new tactical interfaces, new armour packages, RWS turret, as well as several additional sensors and grenade launchers. First units delivered in 2023, with a total fleet of 200 Leclerc XLR by 2030.

Name	Development Began	Year first built	Planned entry to service	Origin	No. built	Notes
Altay[31]	2008	2016 -Phase I 2023 -Phase II	2025	Turkey South Korea	5Phase I[32] 2Phase II[33]	Turkish modern main battle tank based on South KoreanK2 Black Panther developed byOtokar and produced byBMC under design assistance and technology transfer byHyundai Rotem. Currently not in active service, only prototypes.[34]
Challenger 3	2014	2019	2025	United Kingdom		A development of theChallenger 2 Life Extension Programme (LEP), the Challenger 3 has a new turret and an improved hull. TheL30A1 120 mm rifled gun has been replaced with the new NATO-StandardRheinmetall L55A1 120 mm smoothbore gun; a derivative ofRh-120 gun in use with theLeopard 2A6 and2A7. The Challenger 3 is due to enter service in 2025 with the total fleet of 148 tanks.
Future Main Battle Tank	2010	—	2025	India		(Also known asArjun Mk2) It is an upcoming main battle tank developed byDRDO for theIndian Army.
Leclerc Evolution		2024	2030	France	1	A modified version ofLeclerc XLR, intended mainly for export.[35] Tank is equipped with a turret armed with theASCALON (Autoloaded and SCALable Outperforming guN) gun, capable of firing 120 or 140 mm shells, an ARX30 turret, a PASEO sight coupled with a 7.62 mm machine gun, a "Trophy" active protection system and the ability to use remotely operated ammunition.[35]
EMBT		2018–2024	2035	France Germany	3	EMBT is a series of French-German prototypes developed and manufactured byKNDS.[36] The first was presented during theEurosatory 2018,[37] the second in 2022,[38] and the third prototype (EMBT ADT140) in 2024, and features a 140mm autoloadedASCALON gun, coaxial automatic 20mm gun and a 30mmARX 30RWS.[36] The tank features six anti-drone radars, fourlaser/missile warning sensors, and anacoustic gunfire locator.[36] It includes thePrometheus active protection system, and theAI-enabled “SAFE” fire control system to assist in the autonomous selection and queuing of weapon systems.[39] It is also serving as atechnology demonstrator for theMGCS specification.[39] Intended to replace the EuropeanLeopard 2 andLeclerc tanks.[36][40]
Decisive Lethality Platform[41]	2017	—	2035	United States		Prospective unmanned MBT presented as part of theNext Generation Combat Vehicle program, not presently in active development.[41]
Panther KF51[42]	2016	2022	—	Germany Hungary[43]	3	Technology demonstrator created by Rheinmetall, armed with a 130mm gun. In August 2023, Hungary announced that it will join the development,[44] and signed a $288 million contract in December to begin full-scale production.[45] AtEurosatory 2024, Rheinmetall showcased the CUT (Concept Unmanned Turret) mounted on the KF51 platform.[46] In November 2024, Italy announced its intent to buy 132 Panther KF51s.[47]
Future Ready Combat Vehicle	2024	—	—	India		(Also known as Project Ranjeet) It is a design and development programme to develop a next generation MBT to replace theT-72 fleet of theIndian Army.
AbramsX/M1E3		2022	—	United States		A technology demonstrator of the M1 Abrams series, the AbramsX features include theXM360electrothermal-chemical gun, anautoloader, unmanned turret, a hybrid diesel-electric power pack that gives 50% more fuel efficiency, a30mm chain gun in aremote controlled weapon station,active protection systems, and a silent mode when running on electric power. The M1E3 tank development is reportedly based on some concepts of the AbramsX including integrated APS, hybrid powertrain, and unmanned turret.[48]
Unnamed Semi-Autonomous Next Gen Tank		2024	—	China		In 2024,state broadcasterCCTV showcased images of China's next generation tank. It is suggest to feature a 2-man crew and a simulated cockpit enabling it to be controlled unmanned. It is expected to rely on great levels of automation with reliance on AI to relieve the demands on the crew. It is expected to inherit features from the T-95 program, including a fully unmanned turret, armoured capsule, ability to control drones, and field-replaceable armour modules.[49][50][51][52] Reported to featureelectric armour and a lightweight design of around 40 tons, with alternate 30-ton and 50-ton configurations. It was demonstrated to have an hybrid powertrain with short range electric only mode to enable silent assaults and ambushes. Two possible variants were sighted with calibre guns, likely 105mm and 125mm.[53][54]
Leopard 2A RC 3.0		2024	—	Germany		Unveiled atEurosatory 2024 as a "next-gen tank" to enter service before theMGCS, it features an unmanned turret with an autoloaded 120mm smoothbore gun, which moves along two pivot points to keep it above the chassis at all times, and a 30mmremote controlled weapon station. It also has potential to have the main gun upgraded to more powerful 130mm or 140mm calibre guns for longer range.[55][56]
Leopard 2AX		—	2030s-40s	Germany		Developed at the express request of theBundeswehr as an interim or alternative vehicle to theMGCS, envisioned as a "substantial improvement over the Leopard 2A8" with advanced passive andactive protection systems, improved armament and ammunition, and enhanced connectivity and digital command interoperability in multinational operations.[57]
Main Ground Combat System (MGCS)[58]		—	2040s[59]	France Germany		In September 2023 Germany and France announced to be working on next generation main battle tank,[59] a successor to the Leopard 2 andLeclerc XLR tank.[40] In 2024, two models:Leclerc Evolution andEMBT ADT140 were presented that will be technology demonstrators for the future system.[60][61][62] In addition to France and Germany, six other European states are also interested in the program: Belgium, Italy,[59] Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and United Kingdom.[59]
K3 Next-Generation Main Battle Tank (NG-MBT)		—	2030s	South Korea		In May 2025, Hyundai Rotem registered its design for the K3 Next-Generation Main Battle Tank (NG-MBT) with a maximum combat weight under 55 tons. It is slated to have CITV-integrated Remote Weapon Station (RWS), unmanned turret with armored crew capsule in the hull, rear-mounted launcher for rotary-wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and an infrared countermeasure system. It is expected the K3 will initially be released in production in a hybrid power pack consisting of diesel and hydrogen/electric components before a full transition to hydrogen fuel cell technology for propulsion in later variants.[63][64]

• Note to the Pancerni website source: Translation of most important parts of 1st, 2nd, 2.5 and 3rd generation MBTs characteristics: "The first generation MBTs are tanks made immediately after WWII. The second generation MBTs have better sights in comparison to the first generation MBTs. Also second generation MBTs were the first ones to use laser sights and APFSDS rounds. The third generation consists of tanks armed with high caliber and velocity guns like M1A1 Abrams. Third generation tanks also use composite armour as well as armour made out of highly resistant sintered ceramic materials. Third generation tanks also have full stabilization system for the main gun. There are tanks between second and third generations, like Soviet T-72 which has powerful gun which would classify it as a third generation MBT but at the same time the stabilization system is much too primitive for it to a third generation MBT. It also lacks engine power to be a third generation MBT and has ammunition with less quality."

• Hilmes, Rolf (1983).Kampfpanzer: der Die Entwickelungen der Nachkriegszeit (in German). Frankfurt am Main: Verlag Soldat und Technik.ISBN 3-524-89001-6.OCLC 13410347.
• Hunnicutt, R. P. (1984).Patton: A History of the American Main Battle Tank. Novato, Calif.: Presidio Press.ISBN 0-89141-230-1.OCLC 471892846.
• Lamontagne, J. G. Pierre (2003).Are the Days of the Main Battle Tank Over?(PDF) (Master of Defence Studies). Toronto: Canadian Forces College.

• Main battle tanks by period
• History of the tank
• Lists of armoured fighting vehicles

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