The Future of Armored Warfare

The landscape of modern warfare is in a state of flux, influenced by rapidly evolving technologies, geopolitical tensions, and a myriad of other variables. One domain that remains a focal point of discussions is the role of armored vehicles, such as tanks and infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs), in this changing environment. Coupled with ongoing conflicts like the war in Ukraine, the emerging design philosophies for these armored behemoths make for an interesting study. This blog aims to delve into these multi-faceted aspects and shed light on the future of armored warfare, such as:

• The challenges posed by asymmetric threats like drones, cyberattacks, and anti-tank weapons that can target armored vehicles from long distances or concealment.
• The trade-offs between heavy armor and mobility, and the need for lighter and more agile vehicles that can support infantry operations and operate in diverse terrains.
• The development of new concepts and doctrines for armored warfare that leverage multi-domain connectivity, cognitive superiority, and adaptability.

The Evolving Role of Tanks and Armored Vehicles

In an age dominated by drones, cyber warfare, and precision-guided missiles, one might question the relevance of traditional, heavy armored vehicles. However, the future of tanks and armored vehicles is far from obsolete; instead, it is evolving. There are several factors that guide the development of these vehicles:

Mobility: With the increase in urban warfare, lighter and more agile vehicles are becoming essential. Maneuvering through narrow streets or rugged terrains requires a design focus on agility. Mobility also affects the survivability and firepower of the vehicles, as they can avoid enemy fire and engage targets from different angles. Some of the factors that influence the mobility of infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) are weight, engine power, suspension, tracks or wheels, and amphibious capability. Modern IFVs are designed to balance mobility with protection and firepower, and to operate in various environments and scenarios.

Survivability: The increasing effectiveness of anti-tank weapons, such as Javelins, drones, and mines, necessitates better armor and survivability features for tanks. These include active protection systems that can intercept incoming projectiles, such as the Trophy system used by the US Army. Survivability also depends on the design and layout of the tank, such as the use of sloped armor, composite materials, and modular components that can reduce damage and facilitate repairs. Moreover, survivability is influenced by the tactics and support of the tank crew, such as avoiding open fields, using cover and concealment, and coordinating with infantry and air assets.

Firepower: Enhanced firepower, including larger caliber guns and advanced targeting systems, ensures these vehicles remain relevant on the modern battlefield. Some examples of infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) with high firepower are the American M2 Bradley, which can fire a TOW missile capable of destroying most tanks, the German Puma, which has an auto-loading turret and a 30mm cannon, and the Chinese ZBD-04A, which can launch HJ-73D anti-tank missiles. These IFVs can support infantry operations by engaging enemy armor, fortifications, and helicopters.

Versatility: In increasingly complex combat scenarios, the capability to perform multiple roles, facilitated by modular designs, is a significant advantage. Infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) are versatile combat platforms that can carry and support infantry, engage enemy armor and fortifications, and operate in various terrains and environments. Some IFVs can also be fitted with different weapons systems, sensors, and protection modules to adapt to specific missions and threats. Versatility allows IFVs to enhance the mobility, lethality, and survivability of the infantry and to operate effectively within the combined arms team.

Hybrid propulsion systems are becoming more popular in the military vehicle sector, as they offer several advantages over conventional engines. Hybrid systems combine two or more energy sources, such as diesel, electric, or hydrogen, to provide power and reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Hybrid systems also enable a quieter operational mode, which can enhance the stealth and survivability of vehicles in combat situations. Some examples of hybrid systems for military vehicles are:

• Arquus hybrid tank engine upgrade solutions: Arquus is a French company that has been developing hybrid propulsion systems for existing armoured fighting vehicles, such as the VAB, Griffon, VBCI, and Jaguar. Arquus claims that its hybrid systems can deliver the same tactical range as the original engines with 50% less fuel consumption.
• General Dynamics AbramsX: The AbramsX is a next-generation M1 Abrams tank concept that features a hybrid power pack that supports the U.S. Army’s climate and electrification strategies. The AbramsX also has reduced weight, smaller crew size, and advanced capabilities such as crewed-uncrewed teaming and artificial intelligence.
• StrykerX: The StrykerX is an advanced technology demonstrator with a hybrid diesel-electric power pack and other features that could go into future versions or derivatives of the Stryker wheeled armored vehicle family. The StrykerX has improved mobility, survivability, and lethality.
• M10 Booker and Type 15: The M10 Booker and Type 15 are light tanks developed by the U.S. and China respectively, that use hybrid propulsion systems with 105mm guns. These tanks are designed to be more transportable, agile, and adaptable than heavier tanks, and can operate at higher altitudes and amphibious environments.

Ongoing Conflicts: The War in Ukraine

The ongoing war in Ukraine has demonstrated the vital role of armored vehicles in modern warfare. Both sides have deployed a variety of armor, from outdated Soviet models to more advanced types. The use of diverse combat methods such as electronic warfare, drones, and anti-tank missiles has increased the challenges and risks for armored units. In this context, innovations in armored vehicles can provide a significant advantage for the forces that adopt them. Some examples of such innovations are modular designs, lighter weight, improved protection, and enhanced mobility. These features can increase the survivability, versatility, and effectiveness of armored vehicles in different scenarios and terrains. Several countries, such as Ukraine, France, Canada, and Germany, have developed or acquired new armored vehicles that incorporate these innovations. These vehicles can serve as force multipliers in a war of attrition against a numerically superior adversary.

Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs)

IFVs are a unique category of armored fighting vehicles that bridges the gap between mere transportation provided by Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs) and the robust combat roles usually played by tanks. Armed with large-caliber guns, turrets, and often anti-tank missiles, IFVs like the American M2 Bradley, the Russian BMP-3, and the German Puma have changed the dynamics of infantry warfare. Their blend of mobility, firepower, and protection allows them to support dismounted infantry while also possessing the ability to engage with enemy armor. IFVs originated from the need to have vehicles that could serve in a high-intensity conflict in Europe, which was feared might include the use of nuclear, biological or chemical weapons. IFVs also evolved from the concept of mechanized infantry, which aimed to provide infantry with enhanced mobility and fire support on the battlefield. IFVs are distinct from APCs, which are transport vehicles armed only for self-defense and not specifically engineered to fight on their own. IFVs often serve both as the principal weapons system and as the mode of transport for a mechanized infantry unit.

Spotlight: American M10 Booker and Chinese Type 15

The American M10 Booker and the Chinese Type 15 are examples of modern light tanks designed for specific roles and terrains. The M10 Booker is intended to be a more versatile and easily transportable alternative to the heavier M1 Abrams. With a weight of 46 tons and a 105 mm main gun, it aims to provide robust support for infantry operations across different terrains. The M10 Booker is also equipped with a remotely operated weapon station, advanced composite armor, and a hydropneumatic suspension system. It is derived from the GDLS Griffin II armored fighting vehicle, which won the US Army’s Mobile Protected Firepower program in June 2022.

The Chinese Type 15 is a light tank that can operate in high-altitude, mountainous, and water-rich regions where the heavier Type 99 and Type 96 main battle tanks might have difficulties traversing. It has a weight of 36 tons and a 105 mm main gun that can fire both armor-piercing rounds and anti-tank guided missiles. The Type 15 also features a low-profile silhouette, sloped frontal armor, and an autoloader system. It is based on the ASCOD infantry fighting vehicle platform, which is also used by the British Ajax and the Spanish Pizarro. The Type 15 entered service with the People’s Liberation Army in 2018 and was showcased in the 70th National Day parade in 2019.