The Merkava Main Battle Tank - Tank Overview/Opinions

The Merkava series of main battle tanks are used by the Israel Defense Forces. The name comes from Hebrew: "chariot". The tank began development in 1973 and entered official service in 1978. Four main variants of the tank have been deployed. It was first used extensively in the 1982 Lebanon War. The name "Merkava" was derived from the IDF's initial development program name.
The Mark I, operational since 1978, is the original design created as a result of Israel Tal's decision, and was fabricated and designed for mass production. The Mark I weighed 63 tonnes and had a 900 horsepower (670 kW) diesel engine, with a power-to-weight ratio of 14 hp/ton. It was armed with the 105 millimeter M68 main gun (a licensed copy of the British Royal Ordnance L7), two 7.62 mm machine guns for anti-infantry defense, and a 60 mm mortar mounted externally, with its operator not completely protected by the tank's hull.
The Mark II was first introduced into general service in April 1983. While fundamentally the same as the Merkava Mark I, it incorporated numerous small adjustments as a result of the previous year's incursion into Lebanon. The new tank was optimized for urban warfare and low intensity conflicts, with a weight and engine no greater than the Mark I
The Merkava Mark III was introduced in December 1989 and was in production until 2003. As of 2016, the Merkava III is by far the most numerous tank in frontline IDF service. Compared to the Merkava II, it has upgrades to the drivetrain, powertrain, armament, and electronic systems. The most prominent addition was the incorporation of the locally developed IMI 120 mm gun. This gun and a larger 1,200 horsepower (890 kW) diesel engine increased the total weight of the tank to 65 tonnes (143,000 lb), but the larger engine increased the maximum cruising speed to 60 km/h (37 mph)
The Mark IV is the most recent variant of the Merkava tank that has been in development since 1999 and production since 2004. The upgrade's development was announced in an October 1999 edition of the Bamachaneh ("At the Camp") military publication. However, the Merkava Mark III remained in production until 2003. The first Merkava IVs were in production in limited numbers by the end of 2004.
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Merkava Main Battle Tank

[@hoffmanstream1107]

Don't forget the crew suits are air conditioned ... chilled crew works better in the desert ....

[@leronbenari226]

Offir Hoffman kool

[@wolfpack7195]

all up armored vehicles are A/C controlled

[@stupidburp]

AC often comes along with NBC protection

[@largol33t1]

How do they do that? Does each suit have a self-contained chilling unit OR are they hooked up to a main unit? It just sounds cumbersome when in the cramped room of a tank...

[@LukasJosai]

Well probobly hooked up to a central one, but it is probably better because they can have hatches open and still be cool.

[@VerdigrisTrees]

Technicals aside that tank is beautiful looking

[@williamh.1519]

It is beautiful because it works. Form follows function.

[@angus3963]

You should see it in person, absolutely gorgeous!

[@isopod365]

@@angus3963: Have you seen it yourself? If yes, then lucky you I want to see it in person as well ._.

[@trespire]

I have seen them in person. The Mark 4 is an engineering masterpiece to behold, almost a work of art in steel.

[@mosesjrnkandu7819]

SilencedPotato I think it’s the best design tank in looks

[@patricklundstrom8376]

The door and crew compartment isn't MAINLY used for carrying troops, but to carry crews from knocked out tanks back to safety.

[@karlp8484]

Sounds like a very specific and limited role for such a versatile space? That's one potential function for sure, but as the video points out, it's multi-purpose.

[@user-xw5bh9fs8t]

True! I myself was a "troop"(infantry medic) and took a ride in the compartment back to safety. it's not fun and definatly not the main use. it's a usefull feature IF NEEDED

[@ristomladich246]

the mi 28 has a storage compartment for downed crew. it can hold 3 people safely.

[@patricklundstrom8376]

Karl P Israel is obsessed with keeping their soldiers alive. You can always build more tanks, but the crew takes 18-20 years to replace.

[@patricklundstrom8376]

Risto Mladich But probably not comfortable. ;)

[@nikolairomanov4496]

after the merkava finishes its role as a mbt it becomes an apc. reusability ×10

[@_Matsimus_]

Good point! Thanks for watching! :-)

[@manjirum]

Matsimus Gaming Chariot amirite?

[@MishkaVinetsky]

exact

[@NimDod]

Currently, they are working on making heavy APCs out of Merkava mk2 going out of service, and chassis for the new howitzer that the IDF will use to replace its old ones

[@tino897]

This. Since all of the world hates on russia im gonna say how Israel actually does the right thing. The russians dont just design a brand new system rather just upgrade an old one or reuse it. Israel do it too and look what briliant things they make. I am really astonished by the IDF. :)

[@doctim111]

Their Trophy anti-missile system is awesome - it's being installed on M2 Abrams now

[@Omega4Productions]

I thought it was being incorporated into the M1A3, not the A2?

[@KrypticWarrior2]

it’s being put on the latest iterations of the M1A2, the C and D as they are now being called. im sure the trophy system will be more itegrated into the M1A3 instead of being more “slapped” on like it is now

[@merkavamkivm5156]

I'm so good that other tanks are copying me ;)

[@EJ257IHI]

@@merkavamkivm5156 It is, isn't it? :)

[@imperialguardsman5929]

@@merkavamkivm5156 stfu you're still no match for the glorious Bob Semple tabk

[@skyhawkthegerbila-4977]

Israel's armour doctrine is based on protection of the crew due to Iareal's relatively low population throughout it's existence, to them there is no point in having a tank without a crew to control it.

[@Shimshonn]

Well this kind of is opposite to the infantry doctrine of israel, I served as IDF airborne and i can tell you the doctrine pretty much regards infantry as cannon fodder.

[@safwansaid5139]

israel have around 8.2 million people, atleast half of that or less than half are doing millitary servic from permanent to national service requirement. they have abundance of men and women to juggle around. their doctrine consists of perpetual state of paranoia against enemies on every side. you can easily cripple israel with spamming tonnes of fire and forget missiles since their country is dense. but they do have good anti air and anti air ballistic counter measure (iron dome)

[@shocktnc]

As it should be!

[@Medicus_Asur]

That Hamas pepe KEK

[@slkjvlkfsvnlsdfhgdght5447]

@@safwansaid5139 "you can easily cripple israel with spamming tonnes of fire" if that were true, then israel would have lost in 1973. it was outnumbered about 10 to 1 in men adn artillery, and 20 to 1 in tanks at the beginning in the northern front adn even if you don't believe these numbers, if it were so easy, then one of their enemies would have done it already

[@Pathfinders_Ascend]

Haha the turret looks like a mini Millennium Falcon

[@_Matsimus_]

Peter Tran haha kinda does actually! :-D. tanks for watching! Feel free to subscribe :-)

[@adelomar3929]

Or predator alien head

[@tearjusensei9921]

You are anti semitic

[@Type90-IIMwithinternetaccess.]

@@tearjusensei9921 How are they Anti-Semitic?

[@tearjusensei9921]

@@Type90-IIMwithinternetaccess. you are anti sematic.....get it??? (We cant condemn jews)or you will be call that

[@andraslibal]

I met a Merkava instructor once. She was surprised how much I knew about the tank. There are 4 Merkavas displayed at the Latrun (Yad La Shiryon) tank museum in Israel and one IFV based on the Merkava. Also numerous other tanks ... worth visiting.

[@the7observer]

4:08 - I do believe Israel used Centurion tanks armed with 105mm gun in the 6 day war

[@LupusAries]

And even more importantly in the Yom-Kippur War as the Scho't Kal, Osprey wrote a rather good little book about it, in the Duel Series, Duel: Centurion vs T-55 - Yom Kippur War 1973. ospreypublishing.com/centurion-vs-t-55-pb In the Six day war they still used the Scho't Meteor (Centurion with the original Meteor engine), and they weren't to happy about that engine. Also they still use engineer vehicles based on the Centurion, the Puma, and allegedly still have their centurion variants in reserve.

[@ikabody]

Israels Centurions did very well indeed against the Syrian T55's, especially when you consider the odds.

[@leronbenari226]

ikabody In the 6 day war one tank commander with 12 tanks held a entire Syrian brigade.

[@punicwars2]

wrong war. you are talking about Avigdor Cahalany. its the yum kippor war

[@grahamariss2111]

the7observer They used the Centurion in both the 6 day and Yum Kippor, and remains heavily modified in service today wit IDF for secondary tasks such as mobile observation post.

[@007999999999999999]

At 7:52 the antenna snaps right off xD

[@imightbearacist6613]

Yeah lmao saw that and spat my drink

[@Agm1995gamer]

Not an antenna. It's a rubber stick to show the driver where are the corners of the tank while driving.

[@viktoriyaserebryakov2755]

Still feel like it's suppose to not fall off though.

[@Agm1995gamer]

Viktoriya Serebryakov Often soldiers with the brain of a mid-school teenager play with and damage military equipment. This is the outcome.

[@MrPobanz]

Military equipment is (should be) designed to not be broken, even by a mid-schooler. Not been in an actual battle situation, but even during training, your equipment has to endure a lot, may it be a vehicle or equipment.

[@adarkalo5020]

As a Merkava mk. 3 LOADER I can say I love this tank it preforms great!

[@leandro9311]

Engine on front, modular armour, APS system, able to carry up to 4 soldier´s, one of the few Western MBT´s to carry and use missile systems with his main gun wich is a 120mm, good mobility and of-road capabilities and excelent combat field management and firing computerr systems, extensive use in combat and batle proven, the Trophy APS system was also extensively used during Protective Edge in 2014 were it defeated several Kornet ATGM´s and RPG-27´s, probably some of the most deadly anti-tank weapons in the world, the Merkava is my favorite

[@_Matsimus_]

Leandro Ribeiro it's a great tank for sure :-) I would say the most battle proven tank in the world for sure. Thanks for watching and have a great day!!

[@leandro9311]

You 2 mate

[@leandro9311]

***** Yah, its like, don´t sell them to the Israelis because it will worsen the relations with Israel-Arab world instead we are going to sell them to the Arab world ad everthing will be ok !!

[@leandro9311]

At that point, Israel sayd, listen, we don´t wan´t your stupid weapons with your stupid politics and we are sick of the low standard´s your tanks provide us with so we are going to do our own tank and you are going to eat our dust (litteraly)

[@leandro9311]

***** Yah, Israel was at the time being constantly etheir at war or being threaten by some of the bigest military power´s in the world something so unreliable like the Chieftain would be dissastress

[@Ben-ky9xu]

That extra room in the tank also increases the crew comfort as well and a well rested crew translates to increased combat efficiency. The point here is that while your right about how it seems to make more sense to not design in the area for the dismounts and perhaps make the tank smaller or more protected, that space isn't going to waste.

[@lockedon8953]

The Merkava is definitely one of my favorite MBTs in the world

[@WizzRacing]

The Merkava fits Israel, As it's not world power. It's goal is to defend the state of Israel. It's mission is to survive and win. Nothing more. This is why the tank was designed to carry troops, so that infantry can be ready to dismount anti tank scouts, recon, anti air defense and even serve as an NBC retreat for infantry. As it's budget is not $300 billion or one that includes intervention into other countries. I would add. This tank has more tricks up the sleeve then you mentioned. One being laser detection range finding systems that target it. It can pin point just where it come from and release countermeasures to blind it. As well as return fire from not just one source but all on the field of battle. As the systems are integrated division wide. Plus a few more.

[@aaronoriain229]

Claude Rains yeah “home security and border defence” but the border is continually moving outwards into land that is not theirs by law nor by right🤔

[@aaronoriain229]

Their claimed capital was directly central in the Palestinian land divided up by the UN in 1947 as Palestine they just invaded and annexed their way to it

[@justwayne4785]

Snoop Doge Jews had their home there long before the Arabs, the land was shit and not wanted until the Jewish people improved it over the years, then the Arabs decided they wanted what wasn’t theirs as usual and have since then.

[@karminderghuman4348]

Wow!

[@RTmadnesstoo]

@@aaronoriain229 Losers lies !

[@IDFArmor]

i was actually shocked at the amount of research that went into this... color me impressed! liked and subbed!

[@AngusCuthbertson]

The additional crew space isn't intended to be used in the same way as a IFV. It's the ammunition storage. If a allied tank gets hit and the crew bails out, they can empty most of the ammunition storage and put the crew in there instead. Since the "saviour" tank at that point barely has any ammo left it will get out back to a safe place to drop the (probably) injured crew off and replenish ammo.

[@Temp0raryName]

@@cejannuzi If you read through the comments above, you will find the way that they 'empty the ammunition', under such situations, is to send it downrange. But, yea, there is still the issue that the storage cases themselves will be blocking most of the space.

[@smeminem1258]

Merkava doctrine we prioritize crew survivability over all because a crew is the most valuable asset Russian tank doctrine:YOOOooooo we have like... a lot of people

[@okiedokie6595]

Kick start the soviet anthem dammit

[@badgermcbadger1968]

Not anymore since tank training became much more expensive and complex

[@mikailvito7200]

Russia population has been decreasing since WW2.

[@fatyowls]

I do like your rhetoric concerning weapons procurement, absolutely agree with you 100%.

[@leronbenari226]

"Awesome to listen to your troops" that's pretty cool that Israel does that my dad was one of the first people that tested the galil.

[@Agm1995gamer]

Jesus Anaya jesus = judean.

[@dannygelbart6827]

@Jesus Anaya, Waiting till KZbin sees all your comments and you get banned. Trash like you shouldn't be allowed near a public forum.

[@doctim111]

Galil's are great but a bit heavy, no?

[@Agm1995gamer]

doctim111 galils are retired for over two decades now. So I can't say. The current x-95 is 3.9kg

[@mouly]

the galil not in use for 20 years I think. It's old. Today the armi uses Tavor as main gun. The Galil or the smaller version called glilon are kind of Ak47.

[@jtc120880]

Good review - I've personally always liked the look of the Merkava, sleek and deadly. I do think having the capability to be flexible re the troop compartment is a plus rather than a minus though. Been looking forward to this one ever since I suggested it :)

[@Zandiv]

Credit where it's due, I like it. Well done Israel.

[@brettimkopp7514]

Just went to the German Panzermuseum Munster, where they have one of this beautys. Was really impressed as I came around a corner and stumbled directly in front of it. An absolute Beast and the anti reflection coating does a great job, even from up close.

[@jeffgaboury3157]

Interesting video. A couple of things though. At the beginning, you imply that the Israelis were not sold the Centurion tank. Did you mean Chieftain? The Chieftain was a tank that they wanted to buy, but the British backed out due to political pressure. The Centurion, on the other hand, was used by Israel in very large numbers and was one of their favourite tanks in the 60's and 70's and used by them into the 80's. As a matter of fact, the first prototype of the Merkava was actually a highly modified Centurion! Also, the large area at the back and its door is primarily used for a massive load of ammunition, far larger than competing tanks. In an emergency, the ammo load can be reduced to transport troops or casualties, but it's a very secondary use of the space.

[@sdslofi1107]

Yeah the Merkava was always known as a multi role MBT. Being a APC and/or battlefield ambulance if need be. The Scottish Koala's video has a more in depth view on this MBT and it's systems.

[@majorzbzzn]

Great video! I am really happy I found your channel, lots of good info all around. A few comments about this video: 1) The correct pronunciation of the name is with emphasis on the last A. In Hebrew you can have emphasis either on the last syllable or the one before last. In this case its the last. 2) The main design guideline for the tank was not the tank survivability but the crew survivability (this is probably what you meant but this is important). You have to understand the IDF mentality where the live of a single soldier is the most important thing. The compartment in the rear for infantry is part of that mentality. One tank can rescue the injured crew of another and so on. 3) The initial design of the tank was based off the two Chieftain tanks sent by the UK. 4) Merkava MK4 comes with the Trophy defense system as a standard. Sometimes when comparing tanks we look at just the features on paper. This tank was designed with the sole purpose of defending the state of Israel. It is suited to work with the Israeli terrain and with the Israeli mentality (for example I don't think it has any fording ability simply because this is not an issue in the Israeli terrain). Thanks again for making the video, looking forward to your next videos.

[@elvinmadson]

I just recently subscribed to your channel. What brought me here was your videos on Tanks and AFVs IRL. I really like the emphasis of fact and information, and not opinion. These videos are well produced and extremely entertaining/ informative. Great work! you keep making these and I'll keep watching.

[@_Matsimus_]

ElvinSonofMad thanks so much! Really glad you liked it! Thanks for following me and stay tuned for more. Have a great day!

[@kennymedic58]

Like everything in use with the IDF it has been well thought out, not like a lot of the crap that the British army has had in the past. I don't think Israel makes any bad military equipment.

[@danineira366]

Kenny Smith apart from the fact that most of its equipment is extremely situational the merkeva out side of the terrain it's built for well be outperformed by any modern MBT

[@kennymedic58]

I don't think Israel has any plans of fighting out sided of its local area so as i said, the tank is well thought out and is perfect for their needs.

[@beaujeste1]

Not read the Project for a Greater Israel documents? It includes most of Syria, Lebanon and parts of Iraq as well as the theft of Palestine and Gaza. Hence the attempt at regime change and destabilsation of Syria...

[@bm2041]

beau jeste lol....Yes ... that's why Israel returned the Sinai Straits in the 80s. 3 times the surface all the State of Israel ... and that's why in 1994 Israel gave to "Palestinians" some control of Judea and Samaria .. and in 2005 Israel left Gaza and evacuated Jewish settlements....project for Israel greater lol..... ..You have to learn more .. maybe stupidity pass... Allahu Akbar.. lol Because of ignorance like you people fighting ....And that's sad.

[@100500daniel]

beau jeste thats a conspiracy...

[@ryanruffolo9436]

I'm currently an M1 tank driver and when we were learning V ID in training i fell in love with the Merkava. Dying to one day drive that beast.

[@galchimovich6753]

ive heard that back in the ninties there was a drill between the Mekavas and Abrams, the Abrams went out of spare parts. not that i underestimate the abrams, it was built for plains and long distance conqure. the merkava built for Rocky areas.

[@fishgaming9818]

im gonna serve in one of these in 3 years or maybe even the next merkava :)

[@crookim]

To kill palestinian children?

[@fishgaming9818]

@@crookim exactly buddy can’t wait

[@YoRHaUnit2Babe]

@@fishgaming9818 more like their parents who throw their kids into gunfire and then screech out for the media.

[@YoRHaUnit2Babe]

@@fishgaming9818 it's not a warcrime if you can't get caught.

[@YoRHaUnit2Babe]

But tbh I really wish you good luck when you start serving under the international *idiots* that call themselves the Media

[@vernski1015]

Nice job! I have been fascinated with this vehicle since I first learned of its existence. Currently building a 1/35 scale Merkava IIID and I very much appreciated the video. Cheers!

[@jamesvaughan9471]

Another outstanding vid by Matsimus! Hey man I really appreciate the work you put into these. I've watched many and haven't found one yet that I didn't like! Keep them coming!

[@maxdim3704]

This is a tank,love merkava,love Israel army products like the new galil 7,62

[@RedEffectChannel]

Awesome vid as always! I rly like ur tank overviews :D

[@_Matsimus_]

Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed it :-) Have a great day! :-D

[@RedEffectChannel]

Matsimus Gaming Thanks. You too.

[@GoViking933]

By far The best review I’ve seen on the Merkava so far.

[@WorshipinIdols]

That rear door not only allows for much greater survivability but also gives the crew a great sense and knowledge of their safety allowing them to act much more aggressively and fearlessly on the battlefield.

[@sukhoisu-24fencer3]

I always loved the merkava. Its intimidating and cool at the same time.

[@leronbenari226]

My dad was a tank crewmen in the yom kipor war. He said the worst threat was a Egyptian hornet missle that was controlled by a wire with a missle and to counter it they fired all their machine guns at the missle.

[@Mortjep9531]

so it's a missile controlled by another missile with a wire in between?

[@happyflea]

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/9M14_Malyutka

[@EJ257IHI]

My father was there too, in a Patton M60. The missile you're referring to is the AT Sager, nasty stuff.

[@Lion_Hamza]

Who won the Yom Kippur War in your eyes guys? Be honest please. Immo Egypt reached all its objectives and won back the Suez Canal plus the Sinai Peninsula. While Israel the first time hade large casualties and the feeling fighting a new kind of enemy who does not run off.

[@littlebigfish9205]

The egyptians cheated... and yet... still lost the war... now that's talented...

[@dustii_patron8031]

Dude you make such satisfying and quality videos!! Keep it up.. I'm very happy I found your channel.

[@turtlewolfpack6061]

One of my favorite MBTs, amazing concept.

[@beepIL]

Love these tank reviews :) subscribed

[@ihateeverything3972]

Don't agree with the politics involved with Israel, but this is a badass tank.

[@Banner-gi4ec]

Your channel is a Gold Mine! Thank you for the vids and info.

[@danielgreenberg1915]

Discovered this video by accident, but really enjoyed it. Even learned some new things despite having worked alongside these beasts for three years (I was in infantry, God forbid I lock myself in a tin can with wheels). Looking forwards you your video on the Trophy System. In the field we called it "Me'el Ruach (Rain Coat)"

[@sneakyfeats2353]

Merkava is by far my favorite tank. Top tier MBT with a rear hatch and room for a few guys. Even looks cool. Do a video on the Sabra. You can see the similarity.

[@sergarlantyrell7847]

Are you kidding, the troop transport functionality is my favourite feature!

[@orensampson]

Excellent sound Matsimus. Really puts you in the atmosphere of war

[@Sundara229]

Impressive Stuff for a nation of only 8-9 million people. Keep it up! Dont let others take away your country. Greetings from Germany and Poland.

[@Yeeren]

2:52 - Israel also has had an informal "understanding" with Jordan since 1967, followed by an official peace agreement in 1994.

[@doctim111]

Front-wheel driven, better than rear mounted drive sprockets, mud on tracks drops off before hitting the drive sprocket lessening the chance of throwing a track

[@MrParker300]

I love the intro and fade out scene.

[@billdanosky]

Great video! I really appreciated the graphic assembly of the tank's components, and the differences between the models. Extra props to the author, who seems knowledgeable (being a tank mechanic) but not parsimonious. It's hard to believe this- I'm actually going to check out that French tank!

[@karlp8484]

Great video of a great tank. Couple of minor things: My understanding is that the normal ammuntion load is stored in the tank bussel at the back of the turret (a la M1) well armoured and sealed away from the crew compartment, EXTRA ammunition can replace the troops in the rear, if nescessary. The Israelis were major users of the Centurion tank, in fact it was their most important tank in 1967 (Yom Kippur war). Anywho..No, always loved the idea of taking dismounts, so many advantages. APCs/ MICVs can often get seperated from tanks in an attack defeating the combined assault. The dismounts can directly defend the tank, while the tank defends them. Perfect combo. The compartment at the rear is multi-purpose as well, as you pointed out. Even can be used as a command centre. I think the emphasis on armour is right, high speed in that terrain and you're just going to throw a track anyway.

[@leronbenari226]

Karl P Yeah 12 Israeli tanks held the entire north from being taken by a Syrian brigade for 3 days before being reinforced.

[@Mastercard187]

It's not 1967 no more dude..... check south Lebanon 2006 you'll see what I mean loll

[@Sam_Guevenne]

have you served in the armed forces of your country?

[@Meirstein]

1967 was the 6 Day War. The Yom Kippur war was 1973.

[@rosscollingwood5189]

Imagine that - actually listening to the experienced troops on the front line and not the bubble-headed politicians safe in their ivory towers! What a novel concept!!!

[@nickmujiri1720]

How do you not have that many subscribers? Your videos are amazing! I'll do what I can to represent your channel more!

[@treadheadpete4770]

Great video on a very interesting tank, thank you Matsimus!

[@user-ni3rg2xf6w]

Merkava mk 4 driverr here

[@_Matsimus_]

רומן מיצק thank you for your service

[@tarnapolsky4593]

anshul bhardwaj israel doesnt have many swamps lol

[@Lion_Hamza]

רומן מיצק Did you fight in the 2006 war in Lebanon?

[@JovanSRBIJAAA]

Russian ATGM engenier here, can we talk a little bit about your armor ? xD

[@noname123412]

we dont have swamps in israel :)

[@tasman006]

Isreal already had the Centurion tank and used it to good affect in the 6 day war, Yom Kippour war and the 1982 invasion of Lebenon. It was the Chieftian tank which there General Tal oversaw was going to be supplied to Isreal by England. Due to political pressure from the Arab world which if the Chieftain was supplied would have put trade sanctions into affect. So with Tals knowledge of the Chieftain and they already had the Centurion mixed them together, and then they made the Merkava tank.

[@SportbikerNZ]

Great video on the Merkava, nicely done.

[@blingbling574]

I modelled a 3D MkIII back in 2006 in AutoCAD. You learn a lot about tank design doing it in 3D. Took well over a hundred hours. Getting specs, like dimensions and weights on components online was trickier back then. From what I learned, I could confidently put together a 60% complete prototype of my own creation.

[@AlexHahnvideos]

Love the flying saucer like turret.

[@elusive6119]

armedman.ru/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/obekt-279-11.jpg upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b2/Object_279_%28tank%29.JPG ru.wikipedia.org/wiki/Объект_279

[@Mortjep9531]

dafuq

[@jamesdavies6755]

Awesome tank!!!

[@oceanman3804]

Awesome video and an awesome vehicle!

[@bret9741]

Thank you for a good review. I appreciate you competence, thoughtfulness and the investment in time. I especially appreciate that you are willing to speak your mind while attempting to be diplomatic

[@olddylan6633]

Anyone noticed at 7:52 the antenna fell off? XD

[@command_unit7792]

Dylan Cao Its not an antena is an indicator to help the crew orient the turret better...

[@genericman448]

Not to orient the turret, its to know more precisely the tank dimensiones and where each corner ends.

[@prostata200]

yes, but in merkava 4 it is a different structure

[@TihoDownTheTube]

The most beautiful tank in the world. T-90 is second.

[@merkavamkivm5156]

Thanks :D

[@exactinmidget92]

ive always liked this tank. its so alien looking, the chain skirt us awesome and having served in the us army i can always get down with crew survival in mind.

[@_Matsimus_]

exactinmidget92 it looks very modern I have to admit. Thanks for watching :-)

[@duke0salt717]

Merkava is one of my favorite modern tank designs,esthetically I'm mostly talking I personally don't know a lot about Merkava but I love it's angles

[@diegoapalategui579]

15.00 Latrum museum, i have been on top of that Merkava IV

[@EJ257IHI]

Diego Apalategui Me too!

[@wolfvomrhein1503]

"I hate that tank!" - a CSAT soldier

[@merkavamkivm5156]

Can I fire at him, sir?

[@tearjusensei9921]

You are anti sematic

[@wolfvomrhein1503]

@@tearjusensei9921 I am a German! So sink about it for yourself.

[@seumasnatuaighe]

The IDF fielded the Centurion for a good number of years and incorporated some of its features into the Merkava. The Mk1 and Mk2 had the British L7 105mm rifled gun, (as did the original M1 Abrams.) You can see all British and US armor from the Bren Carrier to the M60 at the IDF Armor Brigade Museum just outside Jerusalem. Really a good day out.

[@Proteus6684]

It's just beautiful...brings a tear to my eye

[@lordofdarkdudes]

No dont write that comment. We are here to talk about tanks and nothing ells. Comments about tanks are awsome Throwing out youre opion about a certian political subject is not welcom here go to a diffrent comment section for that

[@reuvenpolonskiy2544]

True that

[@appleislander8536]

For a video that actually mentions Israel, it's actually pretty tame around here.

[@appleislander8536]

@@foxtrot1-5 or Neo-Fascists and Assad apologists. We are very lucky. PS Merry Xmas

[@guestimator121]

@@appleislander8536 Nor neocons and warmongering warhawks.

[@LockLT]

Sexiest tank in the world! :)

[@_Matsimus_]

Julius Kačenauskas it looks pretty amazing! I look at it like a Porsche compared to a heavy duty truck of a Abrams lol thanks for watching!!

[@kabdul9208]

T-14 is the Sexiest tank in the world

[@kabdul9208]

Merkava fucked Russian Anti Tank missile in 2006 by Hezbollah

[@ihateeverything3972]

No

[@philipplutki]

am i the only one who finds the abrams extremely well designed and sexy?

[@TastingwithTonyShow]

The reconfigurable ammo compartment and rear door are great features that give the vehicle flexibility today and lots of options to repurpose the vehicle in the future i.e. IFV, command vehicle. It's probably good for crew morale that there's at least a chance of safety in another vehicle if you're wounded or stranded. It would also be a great way to transport certain assets around a battlefield such as senior commanders, SIGINT operators/gear, special forces. It's always interesting to see how Israel's unique strategic situation translates into military technology solutions. What seems irrational to others makes perfect sense if you're in the IDF.

[@Sinaimedve007]

and this cool ride is BATTLE-PROVEN. That is one helluva fact!

[@WAJK2030]

It probably makes no sense to you, since you might not be familiar with the battle of combined arms in urban environments. Since the best protection of a armoured vehicle in urban streets is a side and rear guad of infantry, clearing from house to house - the tanks realy becomes a IFV. Thats also why it inherets a build in mortar system (shooting OVER houses).

[@orikojokro6677]

Johann Koenitz Good luck shooting a mortar in an urban area. (With many citizens)

[@WAJK2030]

ori kojokro Tell this to the IDF.

[@ALegitimateYoutuber]

How you said missiles are becoming less of a threat due to modern systems. Makes me wonder when we'll be actively looking into kinetic anti-tank again. Mainly kinetic missiles since last time those were explored, the us military found out they just destroyed any current and foreseeable armor system. Problem was they need some range to gain speed and they had pretty much no splash effect, also chemical warheads at the time were still completely effective. But I could see the idea being revisited soon, since a weakness to active defense systems are kinetic rounds. So imagine something as fast as a sabot round, but weighs anywhere from 5 to 10 times more. Thats not something you stop or deflect, instead you just hope it breaks only the vehicle or you get lucky and it misses.

[@elusive6119]

Active-reactive shell adjustable in flight? perhaps in the future

[@rahbaralhaq]

Or we will probably just go for more raw firepower. Railguns and Lasers are now feasible naval armament, won't take long for them to become an option for Tanks as well.

[@ALegitimateYoutuber]

Rik Raptor Wont happen on tanks, they require power packages that a tank simply can't do. Also lasers for military weapons have already pretty much been shot down, because they don't provide anything worth having that a missile or a kinetic gun doesn't have. The exception with a laser is they reach the target almost instantly. But downside is they require a huge amount of power and need a pretty clean line of sight, not to mention they often have to stay on target for a bit. Railguns you wont see on armor, because you must understand those things require a lot of power. Now the low velocity coilguns, for mortar vehicles you might. Since coilguns are much easier to work with and last much longer, and we have already created a few mortars that use such tech. But as for now they provide nothing of benefit, because they are heavier, bigger, more expensive, plus a few other downsides.

[@elusive6119]

***** Possible really. Armata suggests the transition to a hybrid engine. That will give enough energy for electronics, active armor, sensor systems(afar) and the pulse gun. But, the need for new materials and years of research.

[@elusive6119]

***** What is implemented now is a compromise between price and capabilities of the industry.

[@bigcahoona7931]

Absolutely one of the best tanks designed today. Israel has done a fantastic job!

[@chrisrotvega1646]

As always a great video.

[@John5209]

Combat proven. The ultimate test!!

[@hofnaerrchen]

I really like the looks of this tank and I think there approach has many different factors. One might be what Israel is facing as potential enemies. While the arab countries surrounding them field tanks, most of them are at least a generation older but the real "threat" comes from asynchronious forces which employ infantry and improvised vehicles and explosive devices, fighting mostly in urban areas as it could be seen lately when Iraqi troops went to Mosul taking it back from the IS. While not as effective as a specialized vehicle in narrow streets one extremely good protected tank might be the best sollution. Apart from that they use the same hull for their heavy armored APCs. And for coming to an end, I think Israels size as a nation has to be taken into account, too. While being limited in resources, it's manpower - especially good trained manpower - is the biggest asset.

[@AN-it8dp]

lol the lebanese decimated the merkava in 2006 war. Absolutely destroyed it's reputation

[@ga-america5030]

an all in one craft to easily deceive it's foes if it has troops or not, great overview again mats keep up the great work -kam as well as "have a great day"

[@_Matsimus_]

Haha! Thanks for watching Kam :-) Means a lot! Have a AWESOME day ;-)

[@averagejo1626]

Thank you for this vid. It's good to hear facts about the tank and it's upgrades rather than people just complaining about everything they dislike in the system. Big thumbs up and like from me. :-)

[@_Matsimus_]

Thank you!! 👍

[@proto-nm9hr]

im a merkava mk4 driver its all fun and games until u have to work maitance on this huge hunk of metal

[@vladmoo8253]

רומן מיצק that tank is shit

[@proto-nm9hr]

shit is what ur mother brought to the world when she gave birth to u

[@vladmoo8253]

רומן מיצק wow the jewish ass zoinest is so butthurt now we are talking about shitty israeli tanks not mothers. even the t 90 is better then merkava.

[@idoperlmutter6660]

Israel is not in a state of war with jordan

[@Agm1995gamer]

Their goverment know that working with israel is better than going against it. Their people on the other hand are influenced by islamic brotherhood.

[@patriotenfield3276]

neither egypt nor jordan are in a favor of war with Israel. even saudi wants a secret cooperation with 'em just to piss of the iranians

[@superwout]

excellent footage

[@davidhwang4221]

Love the video. The Merkava is one of my favorites. Battle proven too.

[@arielzuk3226]

I see you're bothered with the troop carrying capability. The answer is very simple: It didn't affect the design process at all. Many people do think it's somewhat of an APC, or think of it as one of its main features, but all the designers ever did (it was at the end of the development process actually) was install the ammo racks in a way that allowed the crew to easily remove them in a matter of minutes, and allow a few soldiers to sit inside. It was VERY uncomfortable for anyone sitting there. You have to squat, ruin your back, and occasionally be stabbed by the spikes on the walls that hold the ammo racks. One person just suggested it during the development after 1973 since the M113 were proven to be highly vulnerable to anything that breathes on them. The movement of the engine to the front allowed freeing up a whole lot of space even without sacrificing any frontal armor, and for a fact, the Merkava is perhaps the roomiest, most comfortable tank to be in. Of course, relatively. Tanks are never comfortable, nor roomy. Bottom line: it was more of a side effect stemming from the design direction at hand. In practice, it isn't used anymore. Improving the protection will be hard. The Merkava 4 already does feature perhaps the thickest top, side, and rear armor to date, utilizing a light NERA composite armor. And only second to the T-14 in terms of frontal armor thickness (750mm), and its systems such as FCS, APU and more, are modular so their upgrading is easy. Therefore while almost every major player in the tank field tries to develop the next generation, Israel doesn't forsee a Merkava 5 anytime in the near future.

[@SabreWolferos]

7:52 lol they just broke their antennae

[@IDFArmor]

those border defining thingies break all the time...

[@joshfritz5345]

one of the most rugged and durable modern main battle tanks in existence. it's also incredibly versatile, being able to function as a main battle tank, an infantry support vehicle, a direct or indirect fire support vehicle, an armored personnel carrier, even as an armored ambulance.

[@darklighter8968]

I beleive this is the best tank nowadays, simply because of the engine up front configuration, it is designed to save the crew above anything else, respect that.

[@moobsmcgee3554]

How come modern tanks have a bulge in the middle of the barrel?

[@eeeboytvr]

I believe thats a weight to counter balance the barrel with the breech.

[@user-xw5bh9fs8t]

The buldge hosts a gas deflecter

[@karlp8484]

It's a fume extractor. An annular piston device pulls the gun smoke forward out of the barrel when the gun returns after the recoil.

[@Riceball01]

What he said. It's there so that the fumes from the firing of the shell don't go back into the tank once the breach is opened again to eject the spent shell casing and/or to insert a new round.

[@eeeboytvr]

Ah yes you can see it at 0:35. I belive it was a counter balance on many earlier British tanks though.

[@BrickandBuilder]

xD At 7:54 the Merkava knocks off one of it's antenna - guess they forgot to secure it properly :D

[@BrickandBuilder]

Slow down the video - between 7:52 and 7:54 one can clearly see the antenna falling off. When that same spot is compared after a full traverse, one can see that it's still missing, whereas the other antenna's just flailed about.

[@BrickandBuilder]

At 7:55 you can actually see it lying on the ground in the bottom right-hand corner of the screen :)

[@_Matsimus_]

Haha I didnt notice that lol! Thats funny. Thanks for watching! :-)

[@IDFArmor]

they are just a visual refference of the tank's physical border for the commander or driver, just pieces of hard rubber.

[@Agm1995gamer]

It's not an antenna though. Antennas are all on the turret.

[@abryg8655]

As an infantry soldier walking aside tanks in battle i could appreciate the compartment at the rear. There is a place there for 6-9 soldiers (depending on the shells stored) which could be brought safely to the line of clash, or used as shelter and evacuation. A lot of soldier's experience has been planted in this machine.

[@andrewaarons6494]

I like the versatility of this tank it can insert troops it can extract troops it can bring in supplies it can bring in extra fuel for long distances it can have a surgeon in there operating on somebody who has life threatening injuries and more versatility that's what I look for when I buy something

[@largol33t1]

Matsimus, major props for mentioning the French and British governments refusing to help Israeli troops with getting decent armor. Many fake historians in my country say Israel "refused their offer of tanks for importation," which is a blatant lie. The Merkava partly exists because the Israelis couldn't find anyone to help provide them with tanks. Even in the US, the ones who push their politics into teaching history remain more and more anti-Israeli to the point that there are more PLO sympathizers than ever before. These same haters also still continue to blame Israel for the attack on the World Trade Center! The terrorists were from Saudi Arabia, not Israel.

[@johnpatz8395]

largol33t1 don't blame all of the US for the leftist extremists who hate Isreal, if it makes you feel any better I can let you in on the worst kept secret ever, they also hate the USA, the country they live in, so you're in good company.

[@JohnRodriguesPhotographer]

There are three countries I would shed blood for. America, I live here. S. Korea born there. Israel because never again. My father was among those that liberated Buchenwald.

[@goddepersonno3782]

Well, at least you don't live somewhere that doesn't exist (australia).

[@jaromeunrooski6963]

9/11 has Mossad fingerprints all over it. It was probably a Saudi-Mossad-CIA joint effort. You ever look into the 9/11 dancing Israelis? Google it. I dare you!

[@JohnRodriguesPhotographer]

Of course you saw it on the web. Has to be true.

[@umueri1877]

Hey any warthunder lads here

[@tzarzinjo3766]

I just started my 2nd I-180s this morning. :D

[@funundercarkids]

No and yes

[@redworker11]

Finished 2nd on to 3rd... merkava in 2 days hype

[@Keith1962Griffin]

Great tank and great video!!!

[@superwout]

the internal layout with the "troopcompartment" at the back is sheer genius; it's not merely a troopcompartment, but offers possibility of extracting a crew of a damaged vehicle, carry extra supplies, offer greater comfort for the crew- increasing their time and effectiveness out on the job and it's a safe exit from the vehicle especially in case of emergency- much better than out on top or underneath the tank

[@Raio_Verusia]

"Matsimus Gaming" do you actually game? lol

[@_Matsimus_]

Raio Verusia check out my channel and find out for yourself :-)