Slovenian M-55S tank - a little bit modified T-55

Slovenian company "Sistemska tehnika" modernized 30 T-55A tanks to the M-55S-1 level in 1999. Compared to the T-55A, the turret, forehead and sides of the M-55S-1 tank are equipped with mounted dynamic armor from Elbit (Israel). The tank is also equipped with rubber shields.

Armament consists of a 105mm cannon with a twin 7.62mm PKT machine gun and a Rafael modular turret mounted in the turret with a 12.7mm DShK machine gun. The LIRD-1A laser sensor system is linked to two six-barrel smoke grenade launchers and can be automatically activated in an emergency situation.

The fire control system has been improved through the integration of a digital ballistic computer. The gunner has an SGS-55 sight with dual-plane stabilizer and laser rangefinder. The commander has a Fotona COMTOS-55 observation system, while the driver's seat is equipped with a Fotona CODRIS periscope. Modernization of the V-12 diesel engine increased its power from 520 hp to 600 hp.

Upgraded tank was obsolete at the time of modernization in the early 2000s. Despite all the improvements, the problems with lack of armor and mobility were not completely solved. The new 105mm gun (for NATO ammunition) is not so effective by modern standards. Even if we imagine a situation of direct collision of M-55S with our tanks, the “new” 105mm gun is unlikely to be able to penetrate the frontal armor of T-72B/B3 and T-90A, and T-80BVM, largely due to the dynamic protection will not remain in the loss.

These tanks were put into storage back in 2006 for lack of use. Attempts to sell them were unsuccessful and only in 2022 28 M-55S units were exchanged for 35 German trucks and 5 tanker trucks. Due to their ineffectiveness they are used only in the rear.

⚙️ Main Technical Specifications:

► Combat weight - 36600 kg
Engine power - 600 hp
Maximum speed - 50 km/h
► Power reserve - 500 km
► Crew - 4 persons
► Water depth - 1200 mm


⚔️ @binary_glasses 📱https://x.com/binary_glasses