The Al-Zarrar upgrade project was initiated to maximize the potential of tank T-55 / T-59 / T-69 through extensive R&D and prototype trials. After successful evaluations, series production commenced in January 2003. More than 480 tanks T-55, T-59 & T-69 have been upgraded to Al-Zarrar configuration by HIT.
Combat Weight42.7 tons
Crew4
Power-to-Weight Ratio17.1 hp/ton
Engine730 hp Diesel Engine
Maximum Speed55 km/h
Cruising Range400 km (with spare barrels)
Gradient60%
Side Slope30°
Vertical Obstacle0.8 m
Fording1.4 m
TrackRubber
Support Rollers3 each side
Shock AbsorbersFriction type (2 × each side)
Torsion Bars10
Buffer Cylinders4 (2 × each side)
Main Gun125mm Smooth Bore
ProjectilesAPFSDS, HEAT, HE
Co-axial MG7.62mm
AAMG12.7mm RCWS with Auto-Tracking
Loading SystemSemi auto Loading / Ramming System
Gun StabilizationBi-Axis
Firing ModesS-S, S-M, M-S, M-M
ISFCS / SFCSBoth
Muzzle Reference SystemAvailable
Gunner Sight — Magnification10×
Gunner Sight — FOV6° 30′
Gunner Sight — Range Finding200–5000 m
Gunner Sight — Azimuth Resolution≤ 1.2 mrad
Gunner Sight — Range Resolution50 m
Thermal Imager2nd Generation
Thermal Imager — DRI6000 m / 3500 m / 1500 m
Thermal Imager — FOV (Wide)8° × 6°
Thermal Imager — FOV (Narrow)3.2° × 2.4°
Periscopes — MagnificationUnity
Periscopes — FOV38° ± 2°
Key Features & Capabilities
- Laser Warning & Vehicle Obscuration System
- Remote Controlled Weapon System (12.7mm AAMG)
- Auto Tracker System
- Driver Observation System
- System Control Panel
- Gunner & Commander Display Units
- Automatic Brightness Control
- High-Performance Rubber-Padded Periscopes