Most know Hyundai as an automaker, but did you know it has a defense subsidiary named Rotem?
Rotem showcased the world’s first hydrogen-powered stealth battle tank. It uses hydrogen fuel cells to make the tank more sustainable and reduce moving noise, hence its stealth capability.
“The next-generation tank will have stronger preemptive strike capabilities using an artificial intelligence-based fire control system,” a Hyundai Rotem official told Interesting Engineering.
What are the Hyundai tank’s features?
Rotem developed the tank in collaboration with South Korea’s Agency for Defense Development to realize its vision for future battle tanks.
The company calls it the K3 and will be the next version of the Republic of Korea’s K-series of battle tanks.
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“Next-generation main battle tank surpasses all capabilities of today’s MBTs (Main Battle Tanks),” Hyundai Rotem says on its website.
“As battlefield conditions change, more changes are required to MBT’s firepower, command and control, and survivability to be more optimized…” it added.
K3 will use hydrogen fuel cells to reduce its noise and heat, making it harder to detect in battle. Moreover, it will provide superior fuel economy, acceleration, and mobility.
The Hyundai tank will have fewer moving parts than others, making it easier to maintain. Also, it will traverse steep and rugged terrain more reliably.
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“The next-generation tank will have stronger preemptive strike capabilities using an artificial intelligence-based fire control system,” Rotem stated.
It will have advanced defensive technologies, such as a Directional Infrared Countermeasures (DIRCM) system to intercept heat-seeking missiles and a drone jamming device.
The hydrogen-powered tank’s main weapon is an unmanned turret with a remote-controlled 130mm cannon that can hit targets three miles away.
Its unique design stems from its mix of modular steel, ceramic, and composites creative armor. The Korea Herald says it will enter production after 2040.