Unknown T-72 Tank Modernization Spotted in China

Chinese company Norinco aims to enter foreign markets with a budget modernization of the T-72 tank, targeting African and Asian countries.

The China Military channel published photos from local social media pages.

During a vehicle test near Norinco’s armored vehicle factory in Baotou, an unusual T-72 tank appeared for the first time with a new turret that, based on distinctive features, resembles those used on Chinese Type 96 and VT-4 tanks.

It is difficult to confuse it with an original Chinese tank – the Soviet-era vehicle is identifiable by its left-side exhaust manifold, road wheel design, and chassis construction.

The tank’s turret can be identified as that of the VT-4 by the observation camera located in front of the commander’s hatch on the right side, as well as the combat turret positioned at the rear of the turret.

The use of a turret from an export vehicle, which the Chinese company actively supplies to other countries, combined with a foreign chassis, clearly indicates an intention to enter the budget segment of the global market by offering modernization packages for outdated tanks to countries that are not ready to purchase new equipment. Early models such as the T-72 and T-72M remain widespread in many African and Asian countries.

Installing the VT-4 turret does not require major modifications to the chassis, as it has similar dimensions and turret ring diameter. At the same time, the modernized combat vehicle gains a significant boost in firepower and protection, giving the older tanks a real chance to come out victorious in battles against modern tanks.

The main advantage of the new turret is its electronics. Instead of primitive sights from the 1970s, the customer receives a digital fire control system with a ballistic computer, as well as modern observation tools: a gunner’s thermal sight and a separate rotating commander’s observation station. Together with advanced communication systems, this allows the crew to detect targets first and engage them effectively.

Along with the turret, the autoloader carousel is replaced—a key limiting factor for using more powerful ammunition on older T-72s. Larger ammunition trays can accommodate longer guided missiles and armor-piercing subcaliber rounds.

Meanwhile, the caliber of the gun on the VT-4 turret remains unchanged, allowing the use of existing stocks of 125mm rounds stored in the arsenals of countries operating T-72s.

Compared to the “bare” turrets of old Soviet tanks, which were often cast and typically have homogeneous armor, the Chinese version offers a more modern welded design with larger dimensions and a composite structure that enhances resistance to shaped-charge warheads. Along with integrated FY-4 Explosive Reactive Armor, this significantly improves crew protection.

The Chinese company’s intention to enter the market of Soviet-era tank users means direct competition with the Russian defense industry, which has traditionally dominated Asia and the Middle East.