Soviet Bloc
01-10-2004, 05:51
ST-21 Next-Generation Battle Tank
Seventh Generation Main Battle Tank from the Armed Republic of Soviet Bloc
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v63/Chlevenkov/ST-21.jpg
The ST-21 NGBT represents the future in mechanized warfare. Possessive of features and capabilities most other tanks lack, the ST-21 excels far past any comparable modern battle tank. From its impressive armament to its impenetrable defense and from its crew-safe interior to its rough exterior, the ST-21 NGBT is the true future of modern armored warfare. In fact, this vehicle is so advanced it can fire on up to three different targets at the same (only limited by crew; by using the rear-mounted bank of laser/infrared beacon-guided missiles and by either using the main gun or ATGM tubes).
-Specifications-
Height- 3.4 meters
Length- 8.2 meters
Width- 3.7 meters
Fuel capacity- 223 gallons (45 gallon reserve included)
Range- 769 kilometres
Obstacle-transversal height: 1.3 meters
Fording depth- 2 meters (without snorkel) 3.8 meters (with snorkel)
Weight- 74 tons
Crew- 3 (driver, gunner, commander)
Engine- SB-NTHMTE-E11 1550 horsepower, turbocharged diesel engine
Transmission- SB-ANTIVT-T16: Infinitely Variable Transmission- Version 16
Speed-
Off road- 45 mph maximum (Dependent on conditions, terrain, vehicle condition)
Road speed- 48 mph maximum
Armor:
Liable to change*
1st layer (outer layer)- AERA-II 3rd Generation ERA (advanced explosive reactive armor)
2nd layer- SB-ANTA- 6 inch layer of honeycombed titanium, solid titanium, kevlar/ceramics layer, and steel along with High-Density Plastic Material (a dense plastic composite that is far stronger than steel)
*AERA-II 3rd generation ERA is a double layer ERA system with ERA blocks roughly 3 inch thick and a 25 sq. inch. area with twin layers meaning at every block there are actually 2 layers that can detonate, depending on threat level*
With the AERA-II 3rd Gen. ERA system, the primary layer ignites outwards with the second layer following behind after a certain time-delay nearly doubling the effectiveness of the system. The primary layer ignites when a proximity sensor/network detects an object with projectile-like movement coming towards the tank, then using an onboard supercomputer it quickly calculates the variables of tank speed, tank heading, projectile speed, projectile heading, wind, weather and projectile altitude to determine where the projectile is to hit... Upon finishing the calculations (with plenty of seconds to spare before the round hits), the computer activates a 3-5 ERA block area (made of primary layers) to ignite at a set time with the second layer following after. An auxilary system, although not as effective, works to ignite the ERA blocks upon contact with a high-speed projectile...
The ST-21s armor now incorporates a layer of boronated plastic as well as a layer of carbon elements (same as found in fuel, but this is not flammable). This prevents radiation from entering the vehicle from normal nuclear blasts and heavily reduces radiation entering from neutron weapon attacks (at set ranges), meaning the crew is more likely to survive, as is the tank.
Close-In Defense System
The ST-21 NGBT also utilises something radically new for an ARSB tank, a close-in defense weapon. Mounted within a rotating dome to the rear of the turret, are explosive packs (roughly the size of a grenade) with a heavy presence of fragmenting substance including steel, cast iron, etc. When an incoming enemy missile is detected, a hydrualic system moves the dome to face the incoming missile, at a set time a single pack is launched using a compressed air system (running from an air compressor in the rear of the tank). The pack contains a small computer (variable time detonator) that detonates at a set time (determined by the mother computer) spraying the area with a small explosive blast and shrapnel that will either redirect the missile, destroy it, incapacitate it (loss of guidance), or damage it the point it loses effectiveness against the tank.
The system also doubles as anti-infantry weapon, capable of wiping out infantry within its maximum distance of flight (800 meters). The system can also be used against unarmored vehicles and some lightly armored vehicles and even against tanks to blind their fire control systems by hitting them with a wall of shrapnel. The entire CIDS, designated TDS-MQ-50, contains a total of fifteen of these packs.
ARMAMENT
145 mm SB-NTC Electro-Thermal Cannon :The projectile is loaded into the barrel, behind which there is a "propellant", which is a dot of light metal (solid or liquid). A powerful electromagnetic force is applied to the metal, which causes its atoms to "switch" directions. This happens so violently that the metal turns to plasma, and this expanding gas then drives the projectile forward. Since the cannon is built into a turret, it can rotate 360-degrees and can aim upwards 32 degrees and -7 degrees. Around the firing mechanism and the barrel is enclosed in the SB-AHAS Heat-absorbing and dissipating shroud which absorbs the heat and dissipates it over a wide area. This cannon can easily destroy most main battle tanks at ranges out to 5.4 miles with diminishing effects thereafter (less effective, less damage).
Range (maximum with conventional ammunition): 10.2 miles. Effective range: 5.4 miles
Rounds stored: 6 on autoloader system ready-rack, 16 on autoloader re-loader belt, and 20 stored rounds
The cannon is stabilised on double axis' and can fire on the move.
Rate of Fire: 16 rounds per minute with autoloader and a variable 14-17 rounds per minute with a manual loader (depending on skill and experience)
Ammunition- Can effectively use any type of ammunition (in 145mm) as long as the round's own propellant (and casing) is removed (this includes ball-type, discarding sabot, HE, DU, tungsten, etc.). The cannon also fires barrel-fired ATGMs or other missiles.
New Round- SSJPSR (Secondary SCRAMJET-powered Sabot Round)
The SSJPSR (or JASPER) round is an enhanced depleted uranium sabot round with a SCRAMJET built into the the sabot, when a small onboard computer detects a target at a certain range (or timed), the SCRAMJET can ignite and propel the round two or three times its normal speed to enhance destruction against an enemy unit.
Also new-
The ERAPSR (ERA-Penetrating Sabot Round)- This round utilises a heavy rod with two charges on each end... When a small on board computer senses an ERA exploding, the first charge is lit, nearly making the ERA useless, then the rod penetrates the armor, and second explosive, after a sensor has detected impact, will wait for a time period before igniting.
Next Generation Auto-Loader
The ST-21 NGBT maintains the perfected TL-M-50 auto-loader. This autoloader does not require the cannon to be brought down to a horizontal position but instead follows the cannon up and uses a variable drive assembly system to load the shell into the cannon's chamber at any elevation. This auto-loader only has a ready-rack of about six rounds which is then fed by a 'chain-link drive' to the ammunition storage compartment. Each time a shell is fired and one is loaded into the weapon, the armored partition (between the ammo storage compartment and interior of turret) opens, a hydraulic arm pushes the shell onto a 'plate' which then runs the shell to the auto-loader ready-rack. The auto-loader can also load a barrel-fired ATGM providing that a crew member put the weapon on the rack and designate its firing properties.
Secondary Weapons
Advanced Modular Turret Armament System-
This system allows a WIDE range of weapons to be mounted in an easily changeable format at the gunner's hatch opening and the commander's hatch opening. Multiple mount systems allow 7.62mm MGs, .50 MGs (AA), 25mm cannons, and 20mm grenade launchers to be easily mounted in a cupola or on a 3 position joint (pivot, up-down, side to side). The following weapons can be added, one at the commander's position, and one at the gunner's position. Or all of the weapons can be mounted to cover a VAST array of duties.
EMTAS 25mm autocannon- mounted alongside (or on top; can be easily removed and placed in a special cupola) main gun and can fire along with the main gun (whether or not its alongside or on top of the turret. This cannon can also be fitted into a remote-controlled turret along with a coaxial 7.62mm LMG that can be controlled by the gunner or commander and is linked to the tanks fire control system even though it has its own infrared and low-light targetting systems.
NSVK 12.7 mm anti-aircraft cannon
PKT 7.62mm MG
AG-39 20mm Fully Automatic Grenade Launcher
Other weaponry-
7.62mm and 25mm auto-cannon coaxial cannon
10 smoke grenade launchers/ 81mm mortar
Integrated Modular Side-Turret Weaponry Mount System-
This system is a series of slides and pivot joints to allow for the addition of multiple weapons to the side of the turret, those weapons are as follows:
.50 MG (AA)
Any higher-caliber AA Cannons (up to two on each side)
ATGM missiles
ATGM missile pods
LOSAT (Line of Sight- Anti-Tank)-tubes
Unguided rocket pods
SAM Missile Pods
Sensor equipment
Communications equipment
NEW!Rear Turret Weapons System
The RTWS is a bank of weaponry that can be mounted on the rear of the turret. The foremost of these systems is the MGL-56D missile launch system. The system includes an armored 'bank' of a dozen laser-guided munitions. The bank is hydraulically lifted or tilted (its default setting is tilted at a fifty degree angle). If a target is chosen, the gunner illuminates a target with a laser or infrared beacon and fires a missile. The missile locks onto the infrared beacon (which can be set at a certain infrared wavelength [usually towards the end of the infrared spectrum that is hardest to create using flares, heat, etc.]) or laser and maneuvers toward the target, even being able to change course (assuming target is far enough away). The ATGMs fired are a variant of the ATM-7B anti-tank missile with their guidance system replaced with an infrared beacon/laser locator. Some of these missiles are modified to carry grenades (releasing grenades over a target) or a down-ward facing shrapnel round for engaging enemy infantry lines. The laser designators and infrared beacons are located on two small rotating turrets that can be used together or independently to target two different vehicles (commander targetting one, gunner targetting the other) and firing two missiles at the same time. This system can also use surface to air missiles. The ATGMs used can also be used against helicopters or low-flying aircraft.
A computer data-link links the designator system to any 'defense-net' (massive communication/computer system to all of a nation's defense/offense forces) meaning the laser designator/infrared beacon on the tank can designate enemy targets for aerial bombardment or even cruise missile strikes.
Also, standard ATGMs can be mounted to the rear of the turret.
SYSTEMS-
3ADS (ARQ-690)- All-Around Advanced Defense System- This system is a series of infrared, IRST, millimetric wave radars, and flat panel directive wave radar systems designed to give the commander an all-around view of the tank and anything within its viewing range. The system utilizes these modes of detection located in many different 'banks' of sensors which are usually armor protected. The system is connected to a threat identification computer as well as a fire control computer (which is then linked to the AEISCN or Soviet Bloc DefenseNet) giving the commander and gunner the ability to fire on targets while watching targets on the sides and rear (which can be miles away but being detected using another tank's sensors) and even fire on those targets using ATGMs or firing the cannon in a way resembling artillery.
ALMRS/TTAC-09 Mk. V system: Tracks up to 90 enemies and ranks them according to range, heading, threat level, and tank-type to provide best possible firing solution. Also computes MOA and other variables and automatically sets turret and barrel to correct heading (when this feature is engaged) and can fire on up to two targets simultaneously (assuming ATGM's are on their respectable slides). Also tracks and targets enemy targets at up to 500 ft. altitude and up to 30 miles away (Depending on weather conditions, terrain, and other factors).
SB-AFCS-S1 system: This advanced fire control system allows for the ST-21 to engage moving targets while the ST-21 is on the move. The barrel will always remain aimed at target while tank is in motion and will not waiver even over small hills, dips, bumps, and other obstructions. The barrel will always target enemy unit unless commander targets a new target or disengages system. The SB-AFCS-S1 system will continually track all targets and align barrel to fire on the target even if the target is on the move, the barrel will constantly update and move with the target while computing wind, weather, and MOA abilities for the best possible accuracy. The barrel will move on two different axis'. The commander's station is outfitted with nightvision capabilities, infrared capabilities, radar tracking capabilities (if an EW, radar aircraft, or radar station is near and able to send information), and advanced targetting systems. The commander's station is also outfitted with a periscope with nightvision, infrared capabilities, and a computerized screen to locate targets if they are obscured. Coupled with this system is the ALRS (Advanced Laser Range-finder System) which utilizes a laser rangefinder with a triple layer screen with crystals at different angles to scatter any enemy lasers that are attempting to disable the rangefinder. The rangefinder laser passes through a roughly 3mm hole in the screen.
SB-AMWRS-01- Millimetric wave radar
ARENA Mk. II: Scrambles enemy ATGM's radars and tracking systems. Also interferes with all ATGM tracking systems and/or other guided weapons' systems. Can also interfere with enemy tanks' tracking systems, including tracking, information distribution, infrared, and other systems.
Shtora-3 defense suite: Scrambles enemy laser rangefinder, making it nearly impossible for enemy tank to fire, unless they guess the range. Also scrambles enemy communications systems and tracking systems. Also interferes with enemy laser-based systems and laser-type weapons by using a controlled beam of ultraviolet rays to scatter the laser (communications systems, weapons systems, rangefinder systems).
*Note- The Shtora-3 system can be seen on the very top picture, directly above the cannon, well, at least the emitter portion.*
AEISCN-03: Shares target information with other friendly tanks in the field along with other information, also allows friendly tanks in large numbers to make coordinated attacks through out the battlefield. Also allows friendly tanks to instantly reorganize into new squadrons and divisions for new assaults and also relays all information back to command. This system also checks in every 2 minutes (or shorter; can be adjusted) with GPS and military satellites to update terrain and enemy movements [A total of 14 ARSB satellites aid this and can pinpoint location with an accuracy of 30 feet). Also takes updated information and relays it to the commander's screen which displays all friendly tanks, enemy tanks, standing orders, enemy formations, buildings, objects, and other environmental objects. Coupled with this system is the SB-LRRCS (Long-range Radio communications set) with a range of roughly 450 miles.
NBC System SB-CAP-1 - This NBC system protects against nuclear, biological, and chemical threats as well as seal of the internal areas of the tanks from the outer environment, relying on an SB-AIR-M air recycling and cleaning unit to provide breathable oxygen to the tank's crew.
Periscope systems- Twin periscopes (commander periscope mentioned before)- Gunner periscope is outfitted with infrared technology, night vision tech, and the AEISCN-01 system (which shows enemy units based on satellite and aircraft intelligence or intel from other friendly ground untis). Also, on both periscopes is an active recording/viewable video camera (that can record or display in infrared, low light, night vision, millimetric radar or with computer-added symbols [arrows, boxes; to display locations of enemy units, friendly units, obstacles])
Modular Construction
Its been proven that the more technologically advanced something gets, the more it breaks down. This cannot be helped as there are far too many things that can malfunction. However, the ST-21's designers took this to heart to create a modular tank. Each 'sub-system' is independent of each other and in the event something malfunctions it can be removed within minutes and replaced (providing the correct logistical support is nearby). Its engine is mounted on a sliding mechanism that can slide out and stay suspended in the air (on its rails) and be serviced in that position (giving the repairers the ability to repair anything on the tank and not just the visible portion [as would be on a conventional tank] or in a maintenance shop). The engine compartment was designed to be pulled out with little assistance. Four men can accomplish it. The engine itself is even modular, composed of eight distince 'pieces' which can be easily removed and replaced. The suspension is its own sub-system as is the drive train. The transmission is its own subsystem composed of three modular sections. The turret can be removed with little effort. The commander's section and its computers are all designed for easy replacement as is every other notable feature of this tank.
The average field service time for this tank (a complete field overhaul [in ARSB's standards] is the replacement of the following: engine, transmission, drive-train, track system, ERA panels, and the driver compartment) is now at a record time: 36 minutes. Of course, this is providing that you have the logistical power to do this. If you have little logistical support for an advancing armor group, then don't expect the modularity of this tank to help too much. But if you have strong supply lines, great logistical support, and efficient maintenance personnel, then you'll be able to watch as a burnt out hull of a tank is returned to active duty in a little over half an hour.
Other notes: The ST-21 can carry two or three assault rifles inside the turret (or other smaller weapons).
Survivability- Enhanced frame, strenghtened braces, low radar signature (due to absorbant materials coating outer layer of armor), low heat signature (Using SB-AHAS [see SB-NTC cannon]), low visual signature (low height, fairly narrow).
Enhanced survivability- Advanced Tread-Runner Protection Armor (Side skirts that cover the runners and other components of the track system), arched bottom to aid in mine resistance
Ergonomical features- Engine based heater (for winter), Central air cooling system or underside-opening vents for fresh air, heated seats, defoggers, dehumidifier (to reduce moisture in air and reduce condensation inside turret), low-noise fans, ergonomically-placed lights
Cost: 6.8 million USD; 6 million USD for allies
Seventh Generation Main Battle Tank from the Armed Republic of Soviet Bloc
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v63/Chlevenkov/ST-21.jpg
The ST-21 NGBT represents the future in mechanized warfare. Possessive of features and capabilities most other tanks lack, the ST-21 excels far past any comparable modern battle tank. From its impressive armament to its impenetrable defense and from its crew-safe interior to its rough exterior, the ST-21 NGBT is the true future of modern armored warfare. In fact, this vehicle is so advanced it can fire on up to three different targets at the same (only limited by crew; by using the rear-mounted bank of laser/infrared beacon-guided missiles and by either using the main gun or ATGM tubes).
-Specifications-
Height- 3.4 meters
Length- 8.2 meters
Width- 3.7 meters
Fuel capacity- 223 gallons (45 gallon reserve included)
Range- 769 kilometres
Obstacle-transversal height: 1.3 meters
Fording depth- 2 meters (without snorkel) 3.8 meters (with snorkel)
Weight- 74 tons
Crew- 3 (driver, gunner, commander)
Engine- SB-NTHMTE-E11 1550 horsepower, turbocharged diesel engine
Transmission- SB-ANTIVT-T16: Infinitely Variable Transmission- Version 16
Speed-
Off road- 45 mph maximum (Dependent on conditions, terrain, vehicle condition)
Road speed- 48 mph maximum
Armor:
Liable to change*
1st layer (outer layer)- AERA-II 3rd Generation ERA (advanced explosive reactive armor)
2nd layer- SB-ANTA- 6 inch layer of honeycombed titanium, solid titanium, kevlar/ceramics layer, and steel along with High-Density Plastic Material (a dense plastic composite that is far stronger than steel)
*AERA-II 3rd generation ERA is a double layer ERA system with ERA blocks roughly 3 inch thick and a 25 sq. inch. area with twin layers meaning at every block there are actually 2 layers that can detonate, depending on threat level*
With the AERA-II 3rd Gen. ERA system, the primary layer ignites outwards with the second layer following behind after a certain time-delay nearly doubling the effectiveness of the system. The primary layer ignites when a proximity sensor/network detects an object with projectile-like movement coming towards the tank, then using an onboard supercomputer it quickly calculates the variables of tank speed, tank heading, projectile speed, projectile heading, wind, weather and projectile altitude to determine where the projectile is to hit... Upon finishing the calculations (with plenty of seconds to spare before the round hits), the computer activates a 3-5 ERA block area (made of primary layers) to ignite at a set time with the second layer following after. An auxilary system, although not as effective, works to ignite the ERA blocks upon contact with a high-speed projectile...
The ST-21s armor now incorporates a layer of boronated plastic as well as a layer of carbon elements (same as found in fuel, but this is not flammable). This prevents radiation from entering the vehicle from normal nuclear blasts and heavily reduces radiation entering from neutron weapon attacks (at set ranges), meaning the crew is more likely to survive, as is the tank.
Close-In Defense System
The ST-21 NGBT also utilises something radically new for an ARSB tank, a close-in defense weapon. Mounted within a rotating dome to the rear of the turret, are explosive packs (roughly the size of a grenade) with a heavy presence of fragmenting substance including steel, cast iron, etc. When an incoming enemy missile is detected, a hydrualic system moves the dome to face the incoming missile, at a set time a single pack is launched using a compressed air system (running from an air compressor in the rear of the tank). The pack contains a small computer (variable time detonator) that detonates at a set time (determined by the mother computer) spraying the area with a small explosive blast and shrapnel that will either redirect the missile, destroy it, incapacitate it (loss of guidance), or damage it the point it loses effectiveness against the tank.
The system also doubles as anti-infantry weapon, capable of wiping out infantry within its maximum distance of flight (800 meters). The system can also be used against unarmored vehicles and some lightly armored vehicles and even against tanks to blind their fire control systems by hitting them with a wall of shrapnel. The entire CIDS, designated TDS-MQ-50, contains a total of fifteen of these packs.
ARMAMENT
145 mm SB-NTC Electro-Thermal Cannon :The projectile is loaded into the barrel, behind which there is a "propellant", which is a dot of light metal (solid or liquid). A powerful electromagnetic force is applied to the metal, which causes its atoms to "switch" directions. This happens so violently that the metal turns to plasma, and this expanding gas then drives the projectile forward. Since the cannon is built into a turret, it can rotate 360-degrees and can aim upwards 32 degrees and -7 degrees. Around the firing mechanism and the barrel is enclosed in the SB-AHAS Heat-absorbing and dissipating shroud which absorbs the heat and dissipates it over a wide area. This cannon can easily destroy most main battle tanks at ranges out to 5.4 miles with diminishing effects thereafter (less effective, less damage).
Range (maximum with conventional ammunition): 10.2 miles. Effective range: 5.4 miles
Rounds stored: 6 on autoloader system ready-rack, 16 on autoloader re-loader belt, and 20 stored rounds
The cannon is stabilised on double axis' and can fire on the move.
Rate of Fire: 16 rounds per minute with autoloader and a variable 14-17 rounds per minute with a manual loader (depending on skill and experience)
Ammunition- Can effectively use any type of ammunition (in 145mm) as long as the round's own propellant (and casing) is removed (this includes ball-type, discarding sabot, HE, DU, tungsten, etc.). The cannon also fires barrel-fired ATGMs or other missiles.
New Round- SSJPSR (Secondary SCRAMJET-powered Sabot Round)
The SSJPSR (or JASPER) round is an enhanced depleted uranium sabot round with a SCRAMJET built into the the sabot, when a small onboard computer detects a target at a certain range (or timed), the SCRAMJET can ignite and propel the round two or three times its normal speed to enhance destruction against an enemy unit.
Also new-
The ERAPSR (ERA-Penetrating Sabot Round)- This round utilises a heavy rod with two charges on each end... When a small on board computer senses an ERA exploding, the first charge is lit, nearly making the ERA useless, then the rod penetrates the armor, and second explosive, after a sensor has detected impact, will wait for a time period before igniting.
Next Generation Auto-Loader
The ST-21 NGBT maintains the perfected TL-M-50 auto-loader. This autoloader does not require the cannon to be brought down to a horizontal position but instead follows the cannon up and uses a variable drive assembly system to load the shell into the cannon's chamber at any elevation. This auto-loader only has a ready-rack of about six rounds which is then fed by a 'chain-link drive' to the ammunition storage compartment. Each time a shell is fired and one is loaded into the weapon, the armored partition (between the ammo storage compartment and interior of turret) opens, a hydraulic arm pushes the shell onto a 'plate' which then runs the shell to the auto-loader ready-rack. The auto-loader can also load a barrel-fired ATGM providing that a crew member put the weapon on the rack and designate its firing properties.
Secondary Weapons
Advanced Modular Turret Armament System-
This system allows a WIDE range of weapons to be mounted in an easily changeable format at the gunner's hatch opening and the commander's hatch opening. Multiple mount systems allow 7.62mm MGs, .50 MGs (AA), 25mm cannons, and 20mm grenade launchers to be easily mounted in a cupola or on a 3 position joint (pivot, up-down, side to side). The following weapons can be added, one at the commander's position, and one at the gunner's position. Or all of the weapons can be mounted to cover a VAST array of duties.
EMTAS 25mm autocannon- mounted alongside (or on top; can be easily removed and placed in a special cupola) main gun and can fire along with the main gun (whether or not its alongside or on top of the turret. This cannon can also be fitted into a remote-controlled turret along with a coaxial 7.62mm LMG that can be controlled by the gunner or commander and is linked to the tanks fire control system even though it has its own infrared and low-light targetting systems.
NSVK 12.7 mm anti-aircraft cannon
PKT 7.62mm MG
AG-39 20mm Fully Automatic Grenade Launcher
Other weaponry-
7.62mm and 25mm auto-cannon coaxial cannon
10 smoke grenade launchers/ 81mm mortar
Integrated Modular Side-Turret Weaponry Mount System-
This system is a series of slides and pivot joints to allow for the addition of multiple weapons to the side of the turret, those weapons are as follows:
.50 MG (AA)
Any higher-caliber AA Cannons (up to two on each side)
ATGM missiles
ATGM missile pods
LOSAT (Line of Sight- Anti-Tank)-tubes
Unguided rocket pods
SAM Missile Pods
Sensor equipment
Communications equipment
NEW!Rear Turret Weapons System
The RTWS is a bank of weaponry that can be mounted on the rear of the turret. The foremost of these systems is the MGL-56D missile launch system. The system includes an armored 'bank' of a dozen laser-guided munitions. The bank is hydraulically lifted or tilted (its default setting is tilted at a fifty degree angle). If a target is chosen, the gunner illuminates a target with a laser or infrared beacon and fires a missile. The missile locks onto the infrared beacon (which can be set at a certain infrared wavelength [usually towards the end of the infrared spectrum that is hardest to create using flares, heat, etc.]) or laser and maneuvers toward the target, even being able to change course (assuming target is far enough away). The ATGMs fired are a variant of the ATM-7B anti-tank missile with their guidance system replaced with an infrared beacon/laser locator. Some of these missiles are modified to carry grenades (releasing grenades over a target) or a down-ward facing shrapnel round for engaging enemy infantry lines. The laser designators and infrared beacons are located on two small rotating turrets that can be used together or independently to target two different vehicles (commander targetting one, gunner targetting the other) and firing two missiles at the same time. This system can also use surface to air missiles. The ATGMs used can also be used against helicopters or low-flying aircraft.
A computer data-link links the designator system to any 'defense-net' (massive communication/computer system to all of a nation's defense/offense forces) meaning the laser designator/infrared beacon on the tank can designate enemy targets for aerial bombardment or even cruise missile strikes.
Also, standard ATGMs can be mounted to the rear of the turret.
SYSTEMS-
3ADS (ARQ-690)- All-Around Advanced Defense System- This system is a series of infrared, IRST, millimetric wave radars, and flat panel directive wave radar systems designed to give the commander an all-around view of the tank and anything within its viewing range. The system utilizes these modes of detection located in many different 'banks' of sensors which are usually armor protected. The system is connected to a threat identification computer as well as a fire control computer (which is then linked to the AEISCN or Soviet Bloc DefenseNet) giving the commander and gunner the ability to fire on targets while watching targets on the sides and rear (which can be miles away but being detected using another tank's sensors) and even fire on those targets using ATGMs or firing the cannon in a way resembling artillery.
ALMRS/TTAC-09 Mk. V system: Tracks up to 90 enemies and ranks them according to range, heading, threat level, and tank-type to provide best possible firing solution. Also computes MOA and other variables and automatically sets turret and barrel to correct heading (when this feature is engaged) and can fire on up to two targets simultaneously (assuming ATGM's are on their respectable slides). Also tracks and targets enemy targets at up to 500 ft. altitude and up to 30 miles away (Depending on weather conditions, terrain, and other factors).
SB-AFCS-S1 system: This advanced fire control system allows for the ST-21 to engage moving targets while the ST-21 is on the move. The barrel will always remain aimed at target while tank is in motion and will not waiver even over small hills, dips, bumps, and other obstructions. The barrel will always target enemy unit unless commander targets a new target or disengages system. The SB-AFCS-S1 system will continually track all targets and align barrel to fire on the target even if the target is on the move, the barrel will constantly update and move with the target while computing wind, weather, and MOA abilities for the best possible accuracy. The barrel will move on two different axis'. The commander's station is outfitted with nightvision capabilities, infrared capabilities, radar tracking capabilities (if an EW, radar aircraft, or radar station is near and able to send information), and advanced targetting systems. The commander's station is also outfitted with a periscope with nightvision, infrared capabilities, and a computerized screen to locate targets if they are obscured. Coupled with this system is the ALRS (Advanced Laser Range-finder System) which utilizes a laser rangefinder with a triple layer screen with crystals at different angles to scatter any enemy lasers that are attempting to disable the rangefinder. The rangefinder laser passes through a roughly 3mm hole in the screen.
SB-AMWRS-01- Millimetric wave radar
ARENA Mk. II: Scrambles enemy ATGM's radars and tracking systems. Also interferes with all ATGM tracking systems and/or other guided weapons' systems. Can also interfere with enemy tanks' tracking systems, including tracking, information distribution, infrared, and other systems.
Shtora-3 defense suite: Scrambles enemy laser rangefinder, making it nearly impossible for enemy tank to fire, unless they guess the range. Also scrambles enemy communications systems and tracking systems. Also interferes with enemy laser-based systems and laser-type weapons by using a controlled beam of ultraviolet rays to scatter the laser (communications systems, weapons systems, rangefinder systems).
*Note- The Shtora-3 system can be seen on the very top picture, directly above the cannon, well, at least the emitter portion.*
AEISCN-03: Shares target information with other friendly tanks in the field along with other information, also allows friendly tanks in large numbers to make coordinated attacks through out the battlefield. Also allows friendly tanks to instantly reorganize into new squadrons and divisions for new assaults and also relays all information back to command. This system also checks in every 2 minutes (or shorter; can be adjusted) with GPS and military satellites to update terrain and enemy movements [A total of 14 ARSB satellites aid this and can pinpoint location with an accuracy of 30 feet). Also takes updated information and relays it to the commander's screen which displays all friendly tanks, enemy tanks, standing orders, enemy formations, buildings, objects, and other environmental objects. Coupled with this system is the SB-LRRCS (Long-range Radio communications set) with a range of roughly 450 miles.
NBC System SB-CAP-1 - This NBC system protects against nuclear, biological, and chemical threats as well as seal of the internal areas of the tanks from the outer environment, relying on an SB-AIR-M air recycling and cleaning unit to provide breathable oxygen to the tank's crew.
Periscope systems- Twin periscopes (commander periscope mentioned before)- Gunner periscope is outfitted with infrared technology, night vision tech, and the AEISCN-01 system (which shows enemy units based on satellite and aircraft intelligence or intel from other friendly ground untis). Also, on both periscopes is an active recording/viewable video camera (that can record or display in infrared, low light, night vision, millimetric radar or with computer-added symbols [arrows, boxes; to display locations of enemy units, friendly units, obstacles])
Modular Construction
Its been proven that the more technologically advanced something gets, the more it breaks down. This cannot be helped as there are far too many things that can malfunction. However, the ST-21's designers took this to heart to create a modular tank. Each 'sub-system' is independent of each other and in the event something malfunctions it can be removed within minutes and replaced (providing the correct logistical support is nearby). Its engine is mounted on a sliding mechanism that can slide out and stay suspended in the air (on its rails) and be serviced in that position (giving the repairers the ability to repair anything on the tank and not just the visible portion [as would be on a conventional tank] or in a maintenance shop). The engine compartment was designed to be pulled out with little assistance. Four men can accomplish it. The engine itself is even modular, composed of eight distince 'pieces' which can be easily removed and replaced. The suspension is its own sub-system as is the drive train. The transmission is its own subsystem composed of three modular sections. The turret can be removed with little effort. The commander's section and its computers are all designed for easy replacement as is every other notable feature of this tank.
The average field service time for this tank (a complete field overhaul [in ARSB's standards] is the replacement of the following: engine, transmission, drive-train, track system, ERA panels, and the driver compartment) is now at a record time: 36 minutes. Of course, this is providing that you have the logistical power to do this. If you have little logistical support for an advancing armor group, then don't expect the modularity of this tank to help too much. But if you have strong supply lines, great logistical support, and efficient maintenance personnel, then you'll be able to watch as a burnt out hull of a tank is returned to active duty in a little over half an hour.
Other notes: The ST-21 can carry two or three assault rifles inside the turret (or other smaller weapons).
Survivability- Enhanced frame, strenghtened braces, low radar signature (due to absorbant materials coating outer layer of armor), low heat signature (Using SB-AHAS [see SB-NTC cannon]), low visual signature (low height, fairly narrow).
Enhanced survivability- Advanced Tread-Runner Protection Armor (Side skirts that cover the runners and other components of the track system), arched bottom to aid in mine resistance
Ergonomical features- Engine based heater (for winter), Central air cooling system or underside-opening vents for fresh air, heated seats, defoggers, dehumidifier (to reduce moisture in air and reduce condensation inside turret), low-noise fans, ergonomically-placed lights
Cost: 6.8 million USD; 6 million USD for allies