Israel shows an ultra-modern, next-generation tank equipped with artificial intelligence. Photo and video

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) has unveiled a state-of-the-art new generation tank for its main battle tank, the Merkava. This fifth-generation APC, called Barak (meaning "Lightning"), uses artificial intelligence to make it even more deadly.

This was reported by Interesting Engineering. It is noted that the new tank was specially designed to target and defeat enemy forces quickly before they can strike.

Jerusalem has announced that the Barak tank, developed over the past five years jointly by the Israeli Ministry of Defense and the IDF, is crucial to the nation's future.

"The new era ushered in by the Barak tank is an extraordinary leap forward and an expression of technological capabilities that are constantly improving and providing the IDF with a qualitative advantage in both defense and offense," said Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.

Improvements include the latest technologies such as sensors, artificial intelligence, networks and active defense systems.

"Barak also received an IronVision helmet developed by Elbit Systems. The helmet will be integrated with sensors on the exterior of the tank to provide the combat vehicle commander with a peripheral vision similar to that of a fighter pilot, allowing him to "see" the situation outside the tank using cameras and sensors.

According to the developers, this system will provide the Barak tank with image processing capabilities to help the tank's sensors sort data and recognize objects. As a result, the driver, gunner or commander can use screens located inside the tank to investigate and eliminate potential threats. The weapon controller works like a joystick or pilot's flight control knob.

The tank is also equipped with the Rafael Trophy active defense system, touch screens and an operational app store to assist its crew in missions. In addition, it can transmit real-time intelligence between different military units.

Israel began planning a new tank in 2015 to meet emerging operational requirements. At the time, Israeli tanks were mainly used in Gaza, especially in urban areas, against unconventional threats such as militants armed with rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) launchers. The design of the tank was finalized in 2016 and the development process began in 2018. The tank is now ready for deployment after technological tests in 2020 and 2021.

The Ministry of Defense did not provide details on the number of units ordered, the timing of deployment or their cost. However, the ministry noted that the price is comparable to the Merkava 4M, which is about $3.5 million.

Production of the new tank began last month. Recently, a company of the 52nd Armored Battalion received its first Barak.

As reported by OBOZREVATEL, Israel intends to conduct several large joint military exercises with the United States. This will happen in the coming months. The exercises will focus on missile defense and a coordinated strike against Iran.

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