PL-01 Concept Medium Tank Artwork by OBRUM

The PL-01 Concept is an advanced Medium Tank developed as a joint project between the Polish Company OBRUM and BAE Systems.

Unveiled in 2013, the vehicle is based on the CV90120-T medium tank by BAE Systems (Sweden) and a planned prototype was due to be built for 2016, ready for trials with the Polish Army.

Unlike the CV90120-T, the PL-01 Concept features an unmanned turret with a bustle-fed autoloader for the 120mm main gun.

PL-01 Concept Protection

The PL-01 is constructed of steel with modular armor components. These not only mean that when damaged they can be replaced in the field, but can also contain interchangable composite armor, mission dependant, of up to Level 5 (25mm APDS-T rounds). The engine is located in the front of the hull and can act as additional protection.

Active Protection Systems

: Polish PL-01 Concept Tank

: Polish PL-01 Concept Tank

The PL-01 has both “Soft Kill” (laser detection and warning) and “Hard Kill” Active Protection Systems. The Hard Kill system has x2 interceptor launchers, 1 either side of the turret. Each launcher has x4 counter measures which engage incoming threats so as to avoid impact with the tanks armor.

Stealth Capabilities

: Polish PL-01 Concept Tank

: Polish PL-01 Concept Tank

: Polish PL-01 Concept Tank

: Polish PL-01 Concept Tank

: Polish PL-01 Concept Tank

The PL-01 shape and surface angles are designed to avoid radar detection. This is further enhanced by the radar absorbing material (used by drones and certain Anti-Tank Missiles) covering the vehicles surface. Though not visible on the 2013 demonstrator, OBRUM have stated they wish to improve the design with (or similar) ADAPTIV camouflage system as used on the CV90120 Ghost Medium Tank.

The high tech camouflage system uses modules, which look like cells in a honeycomb to cover the flanks of an armoured vehicle. The modules are made of elements that can be cooled or heated up very quickly as well as controlled individually, allowing different patterns to be created.

The vehicle essentially works like a chameleon, able to mimic its surroundings, or copy other objects such as trucks and cars that can be projected onto the panels from a detailed image bank. The vehicle is also able to signal peaceful intend through flashing text messages across its flank or by creating patterns that can easily be recognized by friendly forces.

PL-01 Concept Firepower

The PL-01 uses the same 120mm Rheinmetall 120 LLR L47 (calibre Length 47) as the CV90120-T Ghost. The optimized barrel, use of advanced materials, the recoil buffer system and integrated gun cradle result in reduced weight and lower recoil for use in lighter-weight fighting vehicles. It is capable of firing all Rheinmetalls 120mm ammunition.

PL-01 Concept Specifications

Firepower
Main Gun	120mm LLR L47 Smoothbore Elevation -10 to +20
Secondary Weapons	x1 coaxial 7.62mm MG
Ammunition Storage	x? 120mm, x? 7.62mm
Mobility
Engine	940hp Diesel
Transmission	Automatic
Top Road Speed	70 km/h
Road Range	500km+
Fuel Capacity	525 litres?
Vertical Obstacle	1m
Water Capability	1.5m
Trench Crossing	2.6m
Gradient	30%
Side Slope	30%
Dimensions
Length Gun Forward	7m
Length Hull	?m
Width	3.8m
Height	2.8m
Ground Clearance	0.4?m
Weight	35,000+kg aka 35+ tonne combat
Protection
NBC Protected	Yes
Armor Type	Steel/Passive/Modular
Active Protection Systems	Yes
Crew
Commander	Yes
Gunner	Yes
Loader	No
Driver	Yes
Additional Crew	—
Troops Carried	n/a