A high-profile demonstration of China's VT4 main battle tank ended in embarrassment when the vehicle stalled and rolled backward during this month's China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai.
The incident occurred as three VT4 tanks were showcasing their ability to navigate rough terrain. Video footage captured one tank struggling to climb a mound before stalling and rolling backward, bringing the demonstration to an unexpected halt.
The VT4, manufactured by Inner Mongolia First Machinery Group (FIRMACO), is marketed as one of China's most advanced tanks available for export. The vehicle features a 125mm main gun, automatic transmission, autoloader, and FY-4 explosive reactive armor.
Several countries including Nigeria, Pakistan, and Thailand have purchased the VT4. The tank has seen combat deployment in Nigeria against Islamic State forces and Boko Haram militants.
The public malfunction could impact potential sales, particularly with Algeria, which has been considering the VT4 as an alternative to Russian-made T-90SA tanks. This is not the first such incident for Chinese armor - a similar breakdown occurred with China's Type-96B tank during a previous international Tank Biathlon event in Russia.
Military analysts suggest these recurring issues raise questions about the overall reliability of Chinese armored vehicles, despite their advanced features and competitive pricing in the global arms market.
The breakdown overshadowed China's otherwise impressive showing at the exhibition, where the country displayed its latest military aviation technology, including two stealth fighter models.
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