Weapons

IDF unveils new Merkava IV Barak tank

The Merkava Mark IV tank, currently used by the IDF's Armored Corps, is undergoing a series of improvements that will be seen on the battlefield in three years in the form of its successor tank—the Merkava Mark IV Barak.

The new tank will include advanced technology systems that are expected to make it more lethal, faster and more secure than the current Merkava Mark-4.

It will also be kitted with an artificial intelligence system that includes a smart task computer to integrate the various tasks being carried out by the tank’s systems.

The mission computer will be responsible for receiving all data from the operational network and tank systems, analyzing the information, and bringing it to the attention of the commander in accordance with the urgency and relevance of the information.

"In this way, the computer will reduce the burden on the crew members, improve the reliability of the system, pinpoint targets and improve the chances of hitting them," the IDF explained. “The Barak tank will also come with an improved cannon and commander’s gun sight."