MBT is basically an offensive weapon platform and used in armored warfare against enemy targets in a conventional warfare. But recent wars have shown that non-conventional threats are popping up in many parts of the world more than conventional warfare threats which demands an MBT to be equipped for urban ops. M1 MBT has TUSK upgrade program for this purpose.
Given the experience of PA operating in COIN ops, PA could have designed the AK-1 or an AK series into an MBT, optimised and suited for urban warfare.
1. An all sides caged armor/slat armor package installed on MBT as an option, instead of ERA.
2. A remote controlled 12.7mm gun.
3. Ammo room for HE rounds and ATGM's instead of SABOT.
4. IBMS to include data entry/collection options incase infantry portable laptop systems are not present.
5. Ability to communicate with a hand operated drone used by supporting infantry unit.
6. Casualty evacuation ability, provided internally or externally.
7. Option for mortar mount (81mm) and operated internally, even if loaded externally after a few rounds. MBT can move out of danger zone and re-load.
Optional SENSORS:
There should be an option of sensors available on customers request, apart from APS(active protection systems), EO, other IR system already installed. The sensors should have easily integrated mounting spots on the MBT.
1. Ground penetrating radar, to detect under ground movement in tunnels.
2. Acoustic sensors (apart from thermal) and other EO sensors. Acoustic-optronics can be used to detect hidden snipers.
3. Sensors to detect under-clothing explosives/weapons from a suitable range.
4. Detection and jamming system (upgradable to latest threats) against modern IED's Hyperspectral and laser to detect difficult targets at mid- and long ranges. In case of obscurants (smoke, dust etc.) a radar sensor can support the optical system.
5. A technology to "see/feel through walls", like Coherent Radar Through Wall System, to detect whats on the other side of walls, like a mone pulse radar system. The drawback of the system was its weight to be carried by soldiers in combat, can now be used in combat installed on MBT.
6. A ground alert sensor, which could instantly get activated as soon as it senses activity (person walking, running, jumping etc) at a distance of 100-1000m meters in a certain direction.
7. A sensor for foliage-penetration, like a UHF pulse Doppler waveforms radar which can detect and track vehicle (up to 6km range) or helicopter (10km) hidden behind a mask or foliage.
8. NBC safety package, to be used in case of biological and nuclear warfare zone, where risk of using infantry is maximum. I think AK-1 is already protected.
