M47A5 Main Battle Tank

==M47A5 Main Battle Tank==
The latest in Forward Echelon firepower, the M47A5 Main Battle Tank represents a massive leap in land-based combat systems for the USCMC. Featuring advanced computerised armament stabilisation, a highly advanced gas turbine and state of the art survivability upgrades, the M47A5 is a force to be both respected and feared on the battlefield.
In late 2188 the next evolution in the Lyox tank family, the M58 "Spiritwolf" MBT, entered service.
== Development and Design Requirement ==
In late 2186, a design requirement was created for a new Main Battle Tank to replace the M22 Jackson, which had become obsolete on account of outdated fire control systems and the advent of effective Anti-Tank weapons by opposing forces which posed a significant threat to the system in an active battlespace. After consultations and initial prototypes, the M47A5- then known as the M45 'Leopard'- was selected by Congress to be developed into the new USCMC Main Battle Tank.
The M47A5 was the first tank to have two separate ammunition types. This allowed the Operator to swap between High Explosive and Armor Piercing Fin-Stabilized Discarded Sabot (APFSDS) rounds for different situations. In addition, the M47A5 was also capable of deploying smokescreens for concealment from enemy fire.
The final field testing of this tank was highly classified and was carried out in conjunction with the U.S. Army at the Yuma Proving Grounds, AZ, in early 2188.
=== Powerplant and Mobility ===
In order to provide adequate mobility for the chassis while also ensuring that it can maintain a level of autonomy suited to the deployments of the Main Battle Tank, a Gas Turbine was developed in-house by Lyox Mechanics, drawing on the experience of over a century of Gas-Turbine powered tanks. The A900 power pack fitted to the M47A5 gives it unparalleled off-the-line acceleration and agility when coupled to its standard drivetrain. Even in spite of its awesome power, the A900 boasts an above-average efficiency, meaning that the M47A5 can maintain autonomy for several hours at a time without requiring refuelling.
== Known Deployments ==
As of yet, the M47A5 has only seen action in limited numbers on Arachthos, however initial reports highlight that Marine confidence in this new weapons platform is incredibly high. It would appear that the M47A5 is a worthy successor to the Jackson Main Battle Tank.
The M47A5 received a significant block II upgrade and small cosmetic adjustments, being retired and reclassified as the M58.
Category:Armored Corps
Category:Vehicles