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Armor/AFV
For discussions on tanks, artillery, jeeps, etc.
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Merkava 4
shiryon
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New York, United States
Joined: April 26, 2002
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Posted: Monday, June 24, 2002 - 06:44 AM UTC
check out this site for more info

http://www.idf.il/merkava4/english/index.stm
210cav
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Virginia, United States
Joined: February 05, 2002
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Posted: Monday, June 24, 2002 - 08:40 AM UTC
Shiryon--can you tell me the purpose of the chains that hang down from the turret on the Merks?
thanks
DJ
Sabot
Joined: December 18, 2001
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Posted: Monday, June 24, 2002 - 08:46 AM UTC

Quoted Text

can you tell me the purpose of the chains that hang down from the turret on the Merks?
Supposedly to pre-detonate RPG rounds prior to hitting the turret. I have also heard (unsubstaniated) that it keeps satchel charges from being tossed between the turret overhang and the back deck.
shiryon
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New York, United States
Joined: April 26, 2002
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Posted: Monday, June 24, 2002 - 11:02 AM UTC
Althiugh I wouldn't say for certain without the official data in front of me I 'd bet it works as a shot deflector aas well . while it most definitly won't stop any tank round it may deflect the round a bit to keep it from penetrating. This would be in addition to Sabot's answer. From the look at the pictures it seems they smoothed out the engine deck and gave it fewer places around could grab rather than deflect.
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