1970's Military Technology
Israel's Tank
One of Israel's most important military inventions is the Merkava
Tank. In 1970, the Israel Defense Force decided to develop their own
tank. The tank was designed by Major General Israel Tal. The first
Merkavas were made in 1979. The tank was designed in a way for maximum
crew protection. The engine of the tank is in the front, for crew
protection. A special umbrella for the tank commander protects him
from unexpected fire when the hatches are open. The fuel and
ammunition compartments are protected so they do not explode. The
compartment of the tank where the crew is located, is made of non-
flammable materials. The Merkava weighs 62,000 kilograms, and goes
forward at a speed of fifty five kilometers per hour.
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