Monday 22 September 2014

Nigeria acquires two sophisticated T-84 Oplot MBT tanks.


The two T-84 Oblot Main Battle Tanks that Nigeria ordered from Ukraine has had its delivery delayed last week Thursday due to executive logistics problem. From every indications, the tanks will be in Nigeria in the next 48 hours.
The T-84 is developed out of the Soviet T-80 main battle tank. It was first built in 1994 and entered service in the Ukrainian Armed Forces in 1999. The T-84 is based on the diesel-engined T-80 version, the T-80UD.
It is one of the most sophisticated battle tanks in the world.
Its high-performance opposed piston engine makes it one of the fastest MBTs in the world, with a power-to-weight ratio of about 26 horsepower per tonne (19 kW/t).
The T-84 Oplot is an advanced version incorporating an armored ammunition compartment in a new turret bustle.The T-84's outstanding feature is the 26 hp/t power-to-weight ratio. It has inherited the nickname Flying Tank from the T-80. The tank is also designed to perform well in hot climates, and even includes an air-conditioned crew compartment (operating temperature range is claimed to be −40 °C to 55 °C).
Last week there were mild protests at the facility where the tanks were built by workers who questioned the reason behind selling this 'monster' to Nigeria when the Ukrainian Army needs it in its war with Russia backed rebels. But that is being addressed.
This Tank will be used in the final battle against Boko Haram as it will take the battle to their camps.Its sophistication lies in its ability to counter any land mine or anti tank weaponry.

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