M-95 Degman
The M-95 Degman is a prototype Croatian main battle tank, developed by the Đuro Đaković company. It is a modernization of the Yugoslav M-84 tank, which is, in turn, a variant of the Soviet T-72. The Đuro Đaković factory is best known for its principal role in the production of M-84 in the Yugoslav era.
The principal improvement over its predecessor M-84 is the application of spaced composite/laminate armor on top of which explosive reactive armor was added, hull front and side skirts are covered giving that extra protection against HEAT shaped-charge munitions. A separate ammunition bustle compartment at the back of the turret adds protection for the crew if tank is hit from behind, and added protection is given by additional slat armor in form of wire mesh with chains, main purpose being to prevent any rocket propelled grenades that might be used to penetrate weakest points at the back of the tank.
Đuro Đaković thermal imaging allows enhanced night activity and optional 1,200 hp (890 kW) engine, which increases the power-to-weight ratio to approximately 27 hp/t. There are numerous smaller changes in fire control, communications equipment, track etc. The Degman's autoloader is 15% faster meaning 9 shells can be fired in a single minute instead of 8 shells, which is M84 norm.
Users[edit | edit source]
- Croatia
- Croatian Army x 82
