The Merkava is a main battle tank used by the
Israel Defense Forces. The tank began development in 1973 and entered active
service in 1978. Four main versions of the tank have been deployed. It was first
used extensively in the 1982 Lebanon War. The "Merkava" name was derived from
the IDF's initial development program name.
It is designed for rapid repair of
battle damage, survivability, cost-effectiveness and off-road performance.
Following the model of contemporary self-propelled howitzers, the turret
assembly is located nearer the rear than in most main battle tanks. This gives
additional protection against a frontal attack. This arrangement also creates
more space in the rear of the tank that allows increased storage capacity, as
well as a rear entrance to the main crew compartment allowing easy access under
enemy fire. This allows the tank to be used as a platform for medical
disembarkation, a forward command and control station, and an armored personnel
carrier. The rear entrance's clamshell-style doors provide overhead protection
when off- and on-loading cargo and personnel.