Dab solver - Merkava

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== Combat history ==

The Merkava was used widely during the [[1982 Lebanon War]]. The tank outperformed Syrian tanks (mostly T-62s) and proved largely immune to anti-tank weapons of the time (the AT-3 Sagger and [[RPG-7]]) that were used against it. It was judged to be a significant improvement over Israel's previously most effective main battle tank at that time, the [[Centurion tank]].
^ref

In February 2002 a Merkava III was destroyed by roadside bomb near  settlement in the Gaza Strip. The tank was lured into intervening in an attack on a settler convoy. When the tank went over a heavy mine it was detonated and the tank was totally destroyed. Four soldiers were killed in the blast. This was the first heavy tank to be destroyed during the [[Second Intifada]].^ref A second Israeli tank, Merkava II or probably a Merkava III, was destroyed a month later in the same area and a further three soldiers were killed. A third Merkava II or III tank was destroyed near the [[Kissufim Crossing]], when one soldier was killed and two wounded.^ref

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{{For|the religious/mystical connotations of the word|Merkabah}}
{{Infobox weapon
|name=Merkava
|image=[[File:MerkavaMk4 ZE001m.jpg|300px|border|Merkava MK-IV]]
|caption=Merkava Mark IV on display at [[Yad La-Shiryon]], [[Latrun]] in April 2011.
|is_vehicle=yes
|type=[[Main battle tank]]
|origin={{Flag|Israel}}
|is_US=yes
|service= 1979{{spaced ndash}}present<ref name="israeli-weapons.com">[http://www.israeli-weapons.com/weapons/vehicles/tanks/merkava/merkava.html "Merkava Tank".]</ref>
|used_by= [[Israel Defense Forces]]
|wars=[[1982 Lebanon War]], [[South Lebanon conflict (1982–2000)|South Lebanon conflict]], [[2006 Lebanon War]], [[First Intifada]], [[Second Intifada]], [[Gaza War]]
|designer= [[MANTAK]]
|manufacturer= MANTAK/[[Ordnance Corps (Israel)|IDF Ordnance Corps]] (assembly)
|unit_cost= Est. $6 million<ref name="Israeldefense">{{citation | publisher =IsraelDefense |author=Arie Egozi |date=March 8, 2012 | title=Renewed Global Interest in the Merkava | url =http://www.israeldefense.com/?CategoryID=483&ArticleID=991}}</ref>
|production_date= Since 1974
|number= (As of March 2012) Mark I: 250 Mark II: 580 Mark III: 780 Mark IV: 360 (Another ~300 on order)<ref name="INSS">[http://www.inss.org.il/upload/(FILE)1336472780.pdf "The Institute for National Security Studies", chapter Israel, 2012] May 8, 2012.</ref>
|length={{convert|9.04|m|ft|abbr=on|disp=or}} (incl. gun barrel) {{convert|7.60|m|ft|abbr=on|disp=or}} (excl. gun barrel)
|width={{convert|3.72|m|ft|abbr=on|disp=or}} (excl. skirts)
|height={{convert|2.66|m|ft|abbr=on|disp=or}} (to turret roof)
|clearance={{convert|0.45|m|ft|abbr=on}}
|weight={{convert|65|t|lb|abbr=off|lk=on}}
|transmission=[[Renk]] RK 325
|suspension=[[coil spring|Helical spring]]
|speed={{convert|64|km/h|0|abbr=on}} on road {{convert|55|km/h|0|abbr=on}} off road
|vehicle_range={{convert|500|km|mi|abbr=on}}
|primary_armament={{convert|120|mm|in|abbr=on}} [[MG253]] smoothbore gun, capable of firing [[LAHAT]] [[ATGM]]
|payload_capacity=48 rounds
|secondary_armament=1 × {{convert|12.7|mm|in|abbr=on}} [[machine gun|MG]] 2 × {{convert|7.62|mm|in|abbr=on}} MG 1 × {{convert|60|mm|in|abbr=on}} internal [[Mortar (weapon)|mortar]] 12 [[smoke grenade]]s
|armour=Classified [[Composite armour|composite]]/[[sloped armour]] modular design.
|crew=4 (commander, driver, gunner, and loader)
|passengers= Maximum 6 passengers<ref name="globalsecurity.org">[http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/israel/merkava.htm "Merkava Mk3/Mk4 Tank".]</ref>
|engine={{convert|1500|hp|0|lk=on|abbr=on}} [[Turbocharger|turbocharged]] [[diesel engine]]
|fuel_capacity=1,400 [[litre]]s
|pw_ratio=23 [[hp/tonne]]
}}
{{Cold War tanks}}
{{Post-Cold War tanks}}

The '''Merkava''' ([[Hebrew language|Hebrew]]: {{Audio|He-Merkava.ogg|מרכבה}}, ''Chariot'') is a [[main battle tank]] used by the [[Israel Defense Forces]]. The tank began development in 1973 and entered official service in 1979. Four main versions of the tank have been deployed. It was first used extensively in the [[1982 Lebanon War]]. The name "''Merkava''" 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 artillery|self-propelled howitzer]]s, the turret assembly is located closer to the rear than in most main battle tanks. With the engine in front, this layout gives additional protection against a frontal attack, especially for the personnel in the main hull, like the driver. It 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 [[armoured personnel carrier]]. The rear entrance's clamshell-style doors provide overhead protection when off- and on-loading cargo and personnel.

It was reportedly decided shortly before the beginning of the [[2006 Lebanon War]] that the Merkava line would be discontinued within four years.<ref>"Israeli Merkava tank production to stop within four years", Amnon Barzilai, Globes Online Retrieved September 26, 2007.</ref> However, on 7 November 2006, [[Haaretz]] reported that an [[General Staff of the Israel Defense Forces|Israeli General Staff]] assessment had ruled of the Merkava Mark IV that "if properly deployed, the tank can provide its crew with better protection than in the past," and deferred the decision on discontinuing the line.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/784074.html|title=IDF preparing for another conflict by next summer|first=Amir|last=Oren|publisher=Ha'aretz|date=2006-11-07|accessdate=2007-09-29}}</ref>

==Development==
In 1965, Israel's military establishment began research and development on a domestically-produced tank, the "Sabra"{{Citation needed|date=August 2009}} (not the modern [[Sabra (tank)|Sabra tank]]). Initially, Britain and Israel collaborated to adapt the United Kingdom's [[Chieftain tank]] that had entered [[British Army]] service in 1966.{{Citation needed|date=August 2009}} However, in 1969, Britain decided not to sell the tank to Israel for political reasons.<ref name="waronline1">{{cite web
 | url=http://www.waronline.org/en/IDF/arms/merkava.htm
 | title= Merkava series |accessdate=2008-07-04 |publisher=War Online
}}</ref>

[[Israel Tal]], who was serving as a [[brigade commander]] after the [[Suez Crisis]], restarted plans to produce an Israeli-made tank, drawing on lessons from the 1973 [[Yom Kippur War]], in which Israeli forces were outnumbered by those of the [[Middle East]]'s Arab nations.<ref name="waronline1"/>

By 1974 initial designs were completed and prototypes were built. After a brief set of trials, work began to retool the [[Tel HaShomer]] ordnance depot for full-time development and construction. After the new facilities were completed, the Merkava was announced to the public in the ''International Defense Review'' periodical. The first official images of the tank were then released to the [[United States of America|American]] periodical ''[[Armed Forces Journal]]'' on May 14, 1977. The IDF officially adopted the tank in December 1978. The first Merkava Mk. 1 tanks were supplied to the IDF in April 1979, nearly nine years after the decision to produce the Merkava Mk. 1 tank was taken.

==Primary contractors==
The lead organization for system integration of the Merkava's main components is [[Israel Military Industries]] (IMI). The [[Israeli Ordnance Corps]] are responsible for final Merkava assembly. Contributors to the vehicle include:<ref>{{cite web
 | url=http://www.army-technology.com/projects/merkava/index.html
 | title=Merkava Mk3 Baz |accessdate=2008-07-04 |publisher=Army Technology
}}</ref>
*IMI manufactures the 105&nbsp;mm and 120&nbsp;mm main guns and their ammunition;
*Urdan Industries assembles and constructs the hull, [[Powertrain|drive-]] and [[powertrain]]s, and turret assemblies;
*[[Soltam]] manufactures the 60&nbsp;mm internal mortar;
*[[Elta]] designs and manufactures the electronic sensors and [[infrared]] optics;
*[[Elbit Systems|Elbit]] delivers the ballistics computer and digital [[fire-control system]] (FCS);
*[[Tadiran]] provides cabin air conditioning, crew cabin intercom and radio equipment;
*[[El-Op]], [[Elisra]] and Astronautics implement the optics and laser warning systems;
*[[Rafael Advanced Defense Systems]] builds and installs the [[Rafael Overhead Weapon Station]] and [[Trophy (countermeasure)|Trophy active protection system]];
*[[L-3 Communication Combat Propulsion Systems]] produces licensed copies of [[Germany|Germany's]] [[MTU Friedrichshafen|MTU]] MT883 1500&nbsp;hp diesel engine powerplant and RENK RK325 transmissions;
*[[Motorola]] supplies Tadiran communication encryption systems;
*[[DuPont]] supplies the [[Nomex]], ballistic, and fire-retardant materials used by Hagor;
*Russia Military Industries helped to design the KMT-4 & -5 anti-mine rollers and the ABK-3 dozer blade, now built by Urdan;
*[[FN Herstal]] supplies 7.62&nbsp;mm ([[FN MAG|MAG 58]]) and 12.7&nbsp;mm ([[M2 Browning machine gun|M2]]) coaxial and pintle-mounted machine guns;
*[[Caterpillar Inc.|Caterpillar]] assisted with an Israeli-designed track system.
*Bental Industries, a [[TAT Technologies]] subsidiary, produced the [[Brushless DC electric motor|brushless motors]] used in the Mark IV's turret and gun control system.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Merkava Mk-4 Detailed|journal=[[Defense Update]]|year=2006|accessdate=24 November 2011|quote=The tank utilizes an electric turret and gun control system, designed by Elbit Systems, which comprises two electrical brushless motors, produced by Bental Industries.}}</ref>

==General characteristics==

===Firepower===
The Merkava Mark I and II were armed with a 105&nbsp;mm [[Royal Ordnance L7|M68]] gun. The Mark III, Mark III ''Dor Dalet BAZ kassag'', and the Mark IV are armed with an [[IMI 120 mm gun|IMI 120&nbsp;mm smoothbore gun]].

Each model of the Merkava has two 7.62 [[machine gun]]s for anti-infantry defense and a 60&nbsp;mm [[mortar (weapon)|mortar]] that can be loaded and fired internally.

===Mobility===
The tank's 1,500 [[horsepower]] turbocharged diesel engine was designed by [[MTU Friedrichshafen|MTU]] and is manufactured under license by [[L-3 Communication Combat Propulsion Systems]] (formerly General Dynamics). The Mark IV's top road speed is 64&nbsp;km/h.{{Citation needed|date=November 2010}}

==Variants==

===Merkava Mark I===
[[File:Merkava-1-latrun-2.jpg|right|thumb|Merkava Mark I at [[Yad La-Shiryon]].]]
The Mark I, operational since 1979, is the original design created as a result of Israel Tal's decision, and was fabricated and designed for [[mass production]].
The Mark I weighed 63 tonnes and had a {{convert|900|hp}} diesel engine, with a power-to-weight ratio of 14&nbsp;hp/ton. It was armed with the 105 millimeter M68 main gun (a licensed copy of the British [[Royal Ordnance L7]]),  two [[7.62 mm caliber|7.62 mm machine guns]] for anti-infantry defense,<ref>{{cite web
 | url=http://www.israeli-weapons.com/weapons/vehicles/tanks/merkava/MerkavaMk1.html
 | title=Merkava Mk 1
 | accessdate=2008-07-04 |publisher=Israeli-Weapons}}</ref> and a 60&nbsp;mm [[Mortar (weapon)|mortar]] mounted externally, with its operator not completely protected by the tank's hull.

The general design borrows the tracks from the British [[Centurion tank]], which had seen extensive use during the Yom Kippur war.

The Merkava was first used in combat during the [[1982 Lebanon War]] where Israel deployed 180 units. Although they were a success, the M113 APCs that accompanied them were found to have several defects and were withdrawn. Merkavas were converted into makeshift APCs or armored ambulances by taking out the palleted ammunition racks in storage. Ten soldiers or walking wounded could enter and exit through the rear door.

After the war many adjustments and additions were noted and designed, the most important being that the 60&nbsp;mm mortar needed to be installed within the hull and engineered for remote firing—a valuable feature the Israelis had initially encountered on their [[Centurion tank|Centurion Mk3s]] with their [[British 2 inch mortar|2" Mk.III mortar]].<ref>Simon Dunstan, Peter Sarson, ''Centurion Universal Tank 1943-2003'' (2003), p.13, Osprey Publishing, ISBN 978-1-84176-387-3</ref> A shot trap was found beneath the rear of the turret [[wikt:bustle|bustle]] where a well-placed shot could jam the turret completely. Installation of chain netting to disperse and destroy [[rocket propelled grenade]]s and [[Shoulder-launched missile weapon|anti-tank rocket]]s before impacting the primary armor increased survivability.

===Merkava Mark II===
{{multiple image
|width = 150
|footer = <center>'''The Merkava Mark II'''</center>
|image1 = Merkava-2-latrun-2.jpg
|alt1 = Merkava Mark II at Yad La-Shiryon.
|caption1 = Merkava Mark II at [[Yad La-Shiryon]].
|image2 = Merkava-2-latrun-4.jpg
|alt2 = The Merkava Mark II. Chain netting is installed behind the turret.
|caption2 = The Merkava Mark II. Chain netting is installed behind the turret.
}}

The Mark II was first introduced into general service in April 1983 and incorporated numerous small upgrades as a result of the previous year's incursion into Lebanon. The new tank was optimized for [[urban warfare]] and [[low intensity conflict]]s, with a weight and engine no greater than the Mark I.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.israeli-weapons.com/weapons/vehicles/tanks/merkava/MerkavaMk2.html |title=Merkava Mk 2 |accessdate=2008-07-04 |publisher=Israeli-Weapons}}</ref>

The Mark II used the same 105 millimeter main gun and 7.62 millimeter machine guns as the Mark I, but the 60 millimeter mortar was redesigned during construction to be located within the hull and configured for remote firing to remove the need to expose the operator to enemy small-arms fire. An Israeli-designed automatic transmission and increased fuel storage for increased range was installed on all further Mark IIs. Anti-rocket netting was fitted for increased survivability against infantry equipped with anti-tank rockets. Many minor improvements were made to the [[fire-control system]].  Updated [[meteorology|meteorological sensors]], [[crosswind]] analyzers, and [[thermography|thermographic]] optics and [[image intensifier]]s gave greater visibility and battlefield awareness.

Incrementally improved versions of the original Mark II were designated, with many of these tanks still in service today:
* '''Mark IIB''', with thermal optics and unspecified updates to the fire control system.
* '''Mark IIC''', with more armor on the top of the turret to improve protection against attack from the air.
* '''Mark IID''', with modular composite armor on the chassis and turret, allowing rapid replacement of damaged armor.

===Merkava Mark III===
{{multiple image
|width = 150
|footer = <center>'''Variants of the Merkava Mark III'''</center>
|image1 = IDF-ground-forces002.jpg
|alt1 = The Merkava Mark III
|caption1 = The Merkava Mark III
|image2 = Tank-weapons-Merkava3tank.jpg
|alt2 = The more advanced, Merkava Mark III Baz model, with weaponry highlighted
|caption2 = The more advanced, Merkava Mark III Baz model, with weaponry highlighted
|image3 = Merkava3dKasag001.jpg
|alt3 = Merkava Mark III Dor Dalet BAZ Kasag, the most advanced Merkava III variant
|caption3 = Merkava Mark III Dor Dalet BAZ Kasag, the most advanced Merkava III variant
}}

[[File:Flickr - Israel Defense Forces - 188th Brigade Training Day, March 2008-cropped.jpg|thumb|Merkava IIId Baz fires - the Baz [[Fire-control system]] increases the Merkava's accuracy and lethality]]
[[File:Merkava III Showoff.ogg|thumb| Merkava III shooting a shell, FN MAG and smoke grenade. It then turns on the smoke screen system. The demonstration concludes with the throwing a green smoke hand grenade (1m 16s).]]
The Merkava Mark III was introduced in December 1989, and had upgrades to the drivetrain, powertrain, armament, and electronic systems. The most prominent addition was the incorporation of the locally developed [[IMI 120 mm gun]].<ref>[http://www.janes.com/articles/Janes-Armour-and-Artillery-Upgrades/Israel-Military-Industries-120-mm-smoothbore-tank-gun-MG251-Israel.html Israel Military Industries 120 mm smoothbore tank gun MG251 (Israel) - Jane's Armour and Artillery Upgrades]</ref> This gun and a larger {{convert|1200|hp}} diesel engine increased the total weight of the tank to {{convert|65|t|lbs}}, but the larger engine increased the maximum cruising speed to {{convert|60|km/h|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.israeli-weapons.com/weapons/vehicles/tanks/merkava/MerkavaMk3.html |title=Merkava Mk 3 |accessdate=2008-07-04 |publisher=Israeli-Weapons}}</ref>

The turret was re-engineered for movement independent of the tank [[chassis]], allowing it to track a target regardless of the tank's movement. Many other improvements were made, including:
* External two-way telephone for secure communications between the tank crew and dismounted infantry,
* Upgraded ammunition storage containers to minimize ammunition [[cooking off|cook-off]],
* Addition of [[laser designator]]s,
* Incorporation of the ''Kasag'' modular armor system, designed for rapid replacement and repair in the battlefield and for quick upgrading as new designs and sophisticated materials become available,
* Creation of the ''Mark IIIB'', with unspecified armor upgrades.

====BAZ System====
The 1995 Mark III BAZ (Hebrew Acronym signifying ''Barak Zoher'') had many improved and additional systems including:
* Upgraded fire-control system components, from Electro Optics Industries ([[EL-OP]]) and [[Elbit Ltd]], provides the tank with the ability to engage moving targets while on the move (an automatic target tracker),
* [[weapons of mass destruction|NBC]] protection systems,
* Locally developed central [[air-conditioning]] system,
* Added improvements in ballistic protection,
* The '''Mark IIID''' has removable modular composite armor on the chassis and turret.

====Dor-Dalet====
The last generation of the Mark III class was the Mark IIID ''Dor-Dalet'' (Hebrew: ''Fourth Generation''), which included several components as prototypes to be introduced in the Mark IV.
* Upgraded and strengthened tracks (built by Caterpillar, designed in Israel),
* Installation of the [[Rafael Overhead Weapon Station|R-OWS]].

===Merkava Mark IV===
{{multiple image
|width = 150
|footer = <center>'''The Merkava Mark IV'''</center>
|image1 = Merkava4-atzmaut1.jpg
|alt1 = Merkava Mark IV is first publicly introduced and seen in Yad La-Shiryon during Israeli Independence Day celebrations in 2002.
|caption1 = Merkava Mark IV is first publicly introduced and seen in [[Yad La-Shiryon]] during [[Israeli Independence Day]] celebrations in 2002.
|image2 = Merkava mk iv084.jpg
|alt2 = Merkava Mark IV (foreground)
|caption2 = Merkava Mark IV (foreground)
|image3 = Merkava4 MichaelMass01.jpg
|alt3 = Merkava Mark IV of the 401st Brigade during a training exercise.
|caption3 = Merkava Mark IV of the [[401st Brigade (IDF)|401st Brigade]] during a training exercise.
}}

The Mark IV is the most recent upgrade of the Merkava tank and has been in development since 1999. The upgrade's development was announced in an October 1999 edition of the ''Bamachaneh'' ("At the Camp") military publication. However, new Merkava Mark IIIs continued to be produced until 2003. The first Merkava IVs were in production in limited numbers by the end of 2004.<ref name="Merkava Mk IV breaks cover">[http://www.janes.com/events/exhibitions/eurosatory2010/sections/daily/day2/merkava-mk-iv-breaks-cove.shtml Merkava Mk IV breaks cover] Janes.com, David Donald, 14 June 2010</ref>

====Features====
The model has a new fire-control system, the [[El-Op]] ''Knight Mark 4''. Removable modular armor, from the Merkava Mark IIID, is used on all sides, including the top and a V-shaped belly armor pack for the underside. This modular system is designed to allow for damaged tanks to be rapidly repaired and returned to the field.

Tank rounds are stored in individual fire-proof canisters, which reduce the chance of cookoffs in a fire inside the tank. The turret is "dry"; no active rounds are stored in it.

Some features, such as hull shaping, exterior non-reflective paints, and shielding for engine heat plumes mixing with air particles to confuse enemy thermal imagers, were carried over from the [[IAI Lavi]] program of the [[Israeli Air Force]] to make the tank harder to spot by heat sensors and radar.

The Mark IV includes the larger 120&nbsp;mm main gun of the previous versions but can fire a wider variety of ammunition, including [[high-explosive anti-tank|HEAT]] and [[sabot]] rounds like the APFSDS [[kinetic energy penetrator]], using an electrical semi-automatic revolving magazine for 10 rounds. It also includes a much larger 12.7&nbsp;mm machine gun for anti-vehicle operations (most commonly used against [[technical (fighting vehicle)|technicals]]).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defense-update.com/directory/merkava4.htm |title=Merkava Mk4 Detailed |publisher=Defense Update}}</ref>

====Upgraded fire control system====
The new fire-control system enables the Merkava to shoot down helicopters such as the Russian [[Mil Mi-24]] and the French [[Aérospatiale Gazelle|Gazelle]], both of which are used by Israel's neighbors.{{Citation needed|date=November 2010}}

====Upgraded tracks====
The Mark IV has the Israeli-designed "TSAWS ('''T'''racks, '''S'''prings, '''a'''nd '''W'''heels '''S'''ystem)" [[caterpillar track]] system, called "''Mazkom''" ({{lang-he|מערכת זחלים קפיצים ומרכובים}}) by troops.  This system is designed to endure the harsh basalt rock conditions of Lebanon and the Golan Heights with minimal "track-shedding".

====Digital battlefield management system====
The tank carries the Israeli [[Elbit Systems]] BMS (Battle Management System; Hebrew: צי"ד), a centralised system that from tracked units and [[Unmanned aerial vehicle|UAV]]s in theater, displays it on color screens, and distributes it in encrypted form to all other units equipped with BMS in a given theater.

====Rapid repair and cost effectiveness====
The Merkava IV has been designed for rapid repair and fast replacement of damaged armour, with the implementation of sections of modular armour that can be easily removed and replaced. It is also designed to be cost-effective in production and maintenance, and as a result its unit-cost is lower than for a number of other tanks used by Western armies.

===Specifications of models===
{|class=wikitable
|- align=center
!width="12%"|
!width="22%"| Merkava Mark I
!width="22%"| Merkava Mark II
!width="22%"| Merkava Mark III
!width="22%"| Merkava Mark IV
|- align=center
!colspan=5 |Service history
|- align=center
! In active service
| 1979–? (reserve forces only)
| 1983–
| 1990–
| 2004–
|- align=center
! Used by
|colspan=4 |[[Israel Defense Forces]]
|- align=center
! Wars
| [[1982 Lebanon War]], [[First Intifada]]
| [[South Lebanon conflict (1982–2000)]], [[First Intifada]], [[Second Intifada]], [[2006 Lebanon War]], [[Gaza War]]
| [[South Lebanon conflict (1982–2000)]], [[Second Intifada]], [[2006 Lebanon War]], [[Gaza War]]
| [[Second Intifada]], [[2006 Lebanon War]], [[Gaza War]]
|- align=center
!colspan=5 |Production history
|- align=center
!Designer
|colspan=4 |MANTAK (Merkava Tank Office)
|- align=center
!Manufacturer
|colspan=4 |MANTAK (Merkava Tank Office)
|- align=center
!Produced
| 1978–1983
| 1982–1989
| 1990–2002
| 2003–
|- align=center
!Number built
| 250
| 580
| 780
| 360, another 300 being delivered (as of May 2012)<ref name="INSS"/>
|- align=center
!colspan=5 |Specifications
|- align=center
! Weight
|colspan=2 | ~63 [[tonne]]s
|colspan=2 | ~65 [[tonne]]s
|- align=center
! Length
|colspan=2 |rear to muzzle: {{convert|8.30|m|ftin|abbr=on}} without gun: {{convert|7.45|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
|colspan=2 |rear to muzzle: {{convert|9.04|m|ftin|abbr=on}} without gun: {{convert|7.60|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
|- align=center
! Width
|colspan=3 |{{convert|3.70|m|ftin|abbr=on}} (without skirts)
|{{convert|3.72|m|ftin|abbr=on}} (without skirts)
|- align=center
! Height
|colspan=2 |{{convert|2.65|m|ft|abbr=on}} (turret roof)
|colspan=2 |{{convert|2.66|m|ft|abbr=on}} (turret roof)
|- align=center
! Crew
|colspan=4 | 4 (tank commander, driver, gunner, loader-[[signaller]]). May also carry some infantrymen.
|- align=center
! Armor
| [[Rolled homogeneous armor]]
| Spaced [[rolled homogeneous armor]]
| [[Composite armor]], modular design.
|[[Composite armor|Composite matrix]] of laminated [[ceramic]]-[[steel]]-[[nickel]] [[alloy]]. [[Sloped armor|Sloped]] modular design.
|- align=center
! Primary armament
|colspan=2 |{{convert|105|mm|in|abbr=on}} [[Royal Ordnance L7|M68]] rifled [[tank gun]] with [[LAHAT]] [[ATGM]] capability.
|{{convert|120|mm|in|abbr=on}} [[MG251]] smoothbore [[tank gun]] with LAHAT ATGM capability.
|{{convert|120|mm|in|abbr=on}} [[MG253]] smoothbore [[tank gun]] with LAHAT ATGM capability.
|- align=center
! Secondary armament
|2–3 × {{convert|7.62|mm|in|abbr=on}} MG 1 × {{convert|60|mm|in|abbr=on}} external [[Mortar (weapon)|mortar]] 12 [[smoke grenade]]s
|2–3 × {{convert|7.62|mm|in|abbr=on}} MG 1 × {{convert|60|mm|in|abbr=on}} internal mortar 12 smoke grenades
|3 × {{convert|7.62|mm|in|abbr=on}} MG 1 × {{convert|60|mm|in|abbr=on}} internal mortar 12 smoke grenades
|1 × {{convert|12.7|mm|in|abbr=on}} [[machine gun|MG]] 2 × {{convert|7.62|mm|in|abbr=on}} MG 1 × {{convert|60|mm|in|abbr=on}} internal [[Mortar (weapon)|mortar]] (improved) 12 smoke grenades
|- align=center
! Engine
|colspan=2 |[[Teledyne Continental Motors|Teledyne Continental]] AVDS-1790-6A {{convert|908|hp|0|lk=on|abbr=on}} [[V12 engine|V12]] [[air-cooled engine|air-cooled]] [[diesel engine]]
|[[Teledyne Continental Motors|Teledyne Continental]] AVDS-1790-9AR {{convert|1200|hp|0|lk=on|abbr=on}} [[V12 engine|V12]] air-cooled [[diesel engine|diesel]]
|[[General Dynamics]] GD883 ([[MTU Friedrichshafen|MTU]]883) {{convert|1500|hp|0|lk=on|abbr=on}} [[V12 engine|V12]] [[water cooling|water-cooled]] [[diesel engine|diesel]]
|- align=center
! Power / weight
|colspan=2 | ~14.5 [[hp/ton]]
| ~18.5 [[hp/ton]]
| ~23 [[hp/ton]]
|- align=center
! Payload capacity
|colspan=2 |53 up to 62 rounds, 6 per container
|46 rounds, 5 ready in a mechanical drum
|48 rounds, 10 ready in an electrical drum
|- align=center
! Transmission
| [[Allison Transmission]] CD850-6BX hydromechanical semiautomatic
|colspan=2| [[Ashot Ashkelon]] hydromechanical automatic, 4 gears.
| [[Ashot Ashkelon]] hydromechanical automatic, 5 gears (licensed copy of [[Renk]] RK325).<ref>[http://www.eurosatory.mod.gov.il/merkava.htm Israel at Eurosatory 2010 - Merkava Mark 4]</ref>
|- align=center
! Suspension
|colspan=4| [[coil spring|Helical spring]]
|- align=center
! Ground clearance
|colspan=2| {{convert|0.53|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
|colspan=2| {{convert|0.45|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
|- align=center
! Fuel capacity
| 1100–1400 [[litre]]s
|colspan=3 | 1400 [[litre]]s
|- align=center
! Operational range
| {{convert|400|km|mi|abbr=on}} – {{convert|500|km|mi|abbr=on}}
|colspan=3 |{{convert|500|km|mi|abbr=on}}
|- align=center
! Speed on road
|colspan=2 | {{convert|50|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|60|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|{{convert|64|km/h|0|abbr=on}}
|}

==Combat history==
The Merkava was used widely during the [[1982 Lebanon War]]. The tank outperformed Syrian tanks (mostly T-62s) and proved largely immune to anti-tank weapons of the time (the AT-3 Sagger and [[RPG-7]]) that were used against it. It was judged to be a significant improvement over Israel's previously most effective main battle tank at that time, the [[Centurion tank]].
<ref>Armies in Lebanon 1982-84, Samuel M. Katz, Lee Russell, Ronald Volstad, Osprey Publishing, 1985</ref>

In February 2002 a Merkava III was destroyed by roadside bomb near <<link:0>> settlement in the Gaza Strip. The tank was lured into intervening in an attack on a settler convoy. When the tank went over a heavy mine it was detonated and the tank was totally destroyed. Four soldiers were killed in the blast. This was the first heavy tank to be destroyed during the [[Second Intifada]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/1821396.stm |title = Israel investigates Gaza tank blast | publisher = BBC | date= 2002-02-15| accessdate= 2011-09-17}}</ref> A second Israeli tank, Merkava II or probably a Merkava III, was destroyed a month later in the same area and a further three soldiers were killed. A third Merkava II or III tank was destroyed near the [[Kissufim Crossing]], when one soldier was killed and two wounded.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.mfa.gov.il/MFA/Terrorism-+Obstacle+to+Peace/Palestinian+terror+since+2000/Victims+of+Palestinian+Violence+and+Terrorism+sinc.htm |title =Victims of Palestinian Violence and Terrorism since September 2000 | publisher = MFA | date= | accessdate= 2010-09-17}}</ref>

[[File:9M133 Kornet.JPG|thumb|The AT-14 Kornet anti-tank laser-guided missile]]
Many of Israel's casualties in the [[2006 Lebanon War]] were Merkava tank crews and soldiers travelling inside the tanks.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/4794829.stm |title = Apparent vulnerability of Israeli armour to Hezbollah anti-tank rockets | publisher = BBC | date=2006-08-15 | accessdate= 2010-03-27 | first=Jonathan | last=Marcus}}</ref> Only the minority of the tanks used during the war were Merkava Mark IVs, as by 2006 they had still only entered service in limited numbers. [[Hezbollah]] fired over 1000 anti-tank missiles during the conflict against both tanks and dismounted infantry.<ref name="Israeli-Hezbollah War 2007 page 110">''Lessons of the 2006 Israeli-Hezbollah War'', (CSIS, 2007), By Anthony H. Cordesman, William D. Sullivan, page 110</ref> Some 45 percent of all tanks and armoured vehicles hit with [[antitank missile]]s during the conflict suffered some form of armour penetration.<ref name="Israeli-Hezbollah War 2007 page 110"/> In total, 15 tank crewmen were killed by these ATGM penetrations.<ref>''Lessons of the 2006 Israeli-Hezbollah War'', (CSIS, 2007), By Anthony H. Cordesman, William D. Sullivan, page 111</ref> The penetrations were caused by tandem warhead missiles. Hezbollah weaponry was believed to include advanced [[Russia]]n [[RPG-29|RPG-29 'Vampir']], [[AT-5 Spandrel|AT-5 'Konkurs']], [[Metis-M|AT-13 'Metis-M']], and laser-guided [[9M133 Kornet|AT-14 'Kornet']]<ref name="Ali Saleh">{{Cite web |title=Ali Saleh: Destroying the Merkava Myth |author=Mohamed Nazzal |date=July 12, 2012 |work=[[Al Akhbar (Lebanon)|al-Akhbar]] |url=http://english.al-akhbar.com/content/ali-saleh-destroying-merkava-myth }}</ref> HEAT missiles. The [[Israel Defense Forces|IDF]] reported finding the state-of-the-art Kornet ATGMs on Hezbollah positions in the village of Ghandouriyeh.<ref name="Israel humbled by arms from Iran">{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml?xml=/news/2006/08/15/wmid15.xml| publisher =[[The Daily Telegraph]] |title=Israel humbled by arms from Iran|date= 2006-08-15 | location = London | first = Adrian | last=Blomfield | accessdate=2010-04-23}}</ref> Several months after the cease-fire, reports have provided detailed photographic evidence that Kornet ATGMs were indeed both in possession of, and used by, Hezbollah in this area.<ref>{{cite news | url= http://www.terrorism-info.org.il/malam_multimedia/English/eng_n/pdf/human_shields_eb.pdf | publisher = Center for Special Studies | title = Hezbollah's use of Lebanese civilians as human shields | chapter = Part Two - Documentation | format = [[PDF]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/17/9m133jn4.jpg| format = [[JPEG]] | publisher = Center for Special Studies |title=Kornet ATGMs captured in Ghandouriyeh}}</ref> Another Merkava IV tank crewman was killed when a tank ran over an [[improvised explosive device]] (IED). This tank had additional V-shaped underside armor, limiting casualties to just one of the seven personnel (four crewmen and three infantrymen) on board. In total, 5 Merkava tanks (2 Merkava IIs, 1 Merkava III, and 2 Merkava IVs) were destroyed.<ref name="Israeli-Hezbollah War 2007 page 110"/> Of these two Merkava Mark IVs, one was by powerful IEDs, and the other, by Russian AT-14 'Kornet' missiles. The Israeli military said that it was satisfied with the Merkava Mark IV's performance, and attributed problems to insufficient training before the war.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3297431,00.html|title=Why did Armored Corps fail in Lebanon?|publisher=Ynet}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Barzilai|first=Amnon|title=Defense establishment favors Rafael tank protection system|publisher=Globes Online|date=30 August 2006|url=http://google.com/search?q=cache:qe6SDt20ZOMJ:www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1692424/posts+%22Defense+establishment+favors+Rafael+tank+protection+system%22,+Amnon+Barzilai,+Globes+Online&cd=1&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=us&client=safari|accessdate=11 September 2009}}</ref> In total, 50 Merkava tanks (predominantly Merkava IIs and IIIs) were damaged, eight of which remained serviceable on the battlefield. 21 tanks suffered armour penetrations (15 from missiles, and 6 from IEDs and anti-tank mines).<ref name="Israeli-Hezbollah War 2007 page 110"/>

After the 2006 war, and as the IDF becomes increasingly involved in unconventional and [[guerrilla warfare]], some analysts say the Merkava is too vulnerable to advanced anti-tank missiles, that in their man-portable types can be fielded by guerrilla warfare opponents.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-8853586453841327363 | title=God’s chariot | accessdate =2008-07-04 |publisher= Aljazeera}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/4794829.stm | title =Tough lessons for Israeli armour |accessdate=2008-07-04 |publisher=BBC | date=2006-08-15 |first=Jonathan |last=Marcus}}</ref> Other post-war analysts, including David Eshel, disagree, arguing that reports of losses to Merkavas were overstated and that "summing up the performance of Merkava tanks, especially the latest version Merkava Mark IV, most tank crews agree that, in spite of the losses sustained and some major flaws in tactical conduct, the tank proved its mettle in its first high-saturation combat."<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.defense-update.com/analysis/lebanon_war_3.htm |title=Assessing the performance of Merkava Tanks |publisher= Defense Update}}</ref> On a comparison done by the armor corps newsletter it was shown that the average number of crewmen killed per tank penetrated was reduced from 2 during the [[Yom Kippur War]] to 1.5 during the [[1982 Lebanon War]] to 1 during the [[2006 Lebanon War]] proving how, even in the face of the improvement in anti-tank weaponry, the Merkava Mark IV provides better protection to its crew (although only a limited number of the Israeli tanks used in 2006 were Merkava Mark IVs). The IDF wanted to increase orders of new Merkava Mark IV tanks, and planned to add the [[Trophy active protection system]] to Merkava Mark IV tanks, and to increase joint training between crews and Israeli [[Anti-tank warfare|antitank]] soldiers.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3439667,00.html |title=IDF mulls spending plan | accessdate =2008-07-04 |publisher= Ynetnews}}</ref><ref>{{cite news| url=http://fr.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1188392502053&pagename=JPost/JPArticle/ShowFull | title=New training aims to help tanks cope in hostile territory | author=Yaakov Katz| publisher=[[The Jerusalem Post]]| date=August 31, 2007}}</ref>
[[File:Flickr - Israel Defense Forces - Storming Ahead.jpg|thumb|Merkava IV with [[Trophy active protection system]]]]
The Merkava IV was used more extensively during the [[Gaza War]], as it had been received by the IDF in increasing numbers since 2006, replacing more of the Merkava II and III versions of the tank which were in service. One brigade of Merkava IVs managed to bisect the Gaza strip in five hours without casualties. The commander of the brigade stated that battlefield tactics had been greatly revised since 2006. Tactics had also been modified to focus on [[asymmetric war|asymmetric]] or guerilla war threats, in addition to the conventional war scenarios that the Merkava had primarily been designed to combat.<ref>{{citation | publisher = Jerusalem Post | date = Aug 13, 2009| title = Security and Defense: 'The tank is one of the most technologically advanced platforms around | first = Yaakov | last = Katz}}.</ref> By October 2010, the IDF had begun to equip the first Merkava IVs with the Trophy active protection system, to improve the tanks' protection against advanced anti-tank missiles which use [[tandem-charge]] [[HEAT]] warheads.<ref>{{citation | url = http://www.jpost.com/Israel/Article.aspx?id=191194 | title = IDF launches massive Ground Forces exercise | publisher = Jerusalem Post | first = Yaakov | last = Lappin | date = 2010-10-13}}</ref><ref name=weiss>{{Cite news|last=Weiss|first=Efrat|title=IDF successfully tests new tank defense system|work=Ynetnews|accessdate=2009-08-07|date=2009-08-07|url=http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3758478,00.html}}</ref> Added protection systems included an Elbit laser-warning system and IMI in-built smoke-screen grenades.<ref name= "Merkava Mk IV breaks cover"/>

In December 2010, Hamas in Gaza fired an [[AT-14 Kornet]] anti-tank missile at a Merkava Mark III tank stationed on the Israel-Gaza border near [[Bureij|Al-Bureij]]. It had hitherto not been suspected that Hamas possessed such a sophisticated missile. The missile penetrated the tank's armour, but in this instance it caused no injuries among its crew . As a result of the attack, Israel decided to deploy, along the Gaza border, its first Merkava Mark IV battalion equipped with the [[Trophy active protection system]].<ref>{{citation | url = http://www.jpost.com/Defense/Article.aspx?id=200423 | title = IDF predicts violence to subside despite Gaza pounding | publisher = The Jerusalem Post | first1 = Yaakov | last1 = Katz | first2 = Rebecca Anna | last2 = Stoil | date = 12/21/2010 15:43}}.</ref>

On 1 March 2011, a Merkava MK IV stationed near the Gaza border, equipped with the [[Trophy active protection system]], successfully foiled a missile attack aimed towards it and became the first operational success of the system.<ref>{{cite news
| url = http://www.haaretz.com/news/diplomacy-defense/idf-armor-defense-system-foils-attack-on-tank-for-first-time-1.346526
| title = IDF armor-defense system foils attack on tank for first time
| publisher = [[Haaretz]]
| date = 2011-03-01
| last = Harel
| first = Amos
}}</ref>

==Export==
In May 2012, Israel offered procurement of Merkava IV tanks to [[Colombia]]. The sale would include 25 to 40 tanks, as well as a number of [[Namer]] APCs. With the threat of the expanding [[National Armed Forces of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela|Venezuelan military]], it would strengthen Colombian armored forces against Venezuelan [[T-72]] tanks.<ref>[http://www.armyrecognition.com/may_2012_new_army_military_defence_industry_uk/israel_has_offered_the_procurement_of_main_battle_tank_merkava_iv_and_namer_apc_to_colombia_2405122.html Israel offers Merkava tanks to Colombia] - Army Recognition, May 24, 2012</ref>

==Derivatives==
Following the [[Second Intifada]] the Israel Defense Forces modified some of their Merkava's to satisfy the needs of [[urban warfare]].

===Merkava LIC===
These are Merkava Mark III BAZ or Mark IV tanks, converted for urban warfare. The '''LIC''' designation stands for "[[Low intensity conflict]]", underlining its emphasis on counter-insurgency, street-to-street inner-city asymmetrical type warfare of the 21st century.<ref name="defense1">{{cite web |url=http://www.defense-update.com/products/m/merkava-lic.htm |title= LIC Modeled Merkava Mk-3 Baz |accessdate=2008-07-04 |publisher=Defense Update}}</ref>

The Merkava is equipped with a turret 12.7&nbsp;mm caliber coaxial machine gun which enables the crew to lay down fairly heavy cover fire without the use of the main gun, which is relatively ineffective against individual enemy combatants.  Like the new remote-operated weapon station, the coaxial machine-gun is fired from inside the tank without exposing the crew to small-arms fire and snipers.

The most sensitive areas of a tank, its optics, exhaust ports and ventilators, are all protected by a newly developed high-strength metal mesh, to prevent the possibility of explosives charges being planted there.<ref name="defense1"/>

Rubber whip pole-markers with LED tips and a driver's rear-facing camera have been installed to improve navigation and maneuverability in an urban environment by day or by night.

===Merkava ''Tankbulance''===
Some Merkava tanks have been fitted with full medical and [[ambulance]] capabilities while retaining their armament (but carrying less ammunition than the standard tank). The cabin area has been converted for carrying injured personnel and has had two [[stretcher]]s and [[life support]] medical station systems added with a full medical team complement to operate under combat conditions with a Merkava battalion. The vehicle has a rear door to facilitate evacuation under fire, and can provide covering fire.

The "tankbulance" is not an unarmed ambulance and as such is not protected by the [[Geneva Convention]]s provisions regarding ambulances, but it is far less vulnerable to accidental or deliberate fire than an ambulance or [[armored personnel carrier]].

===Merkava IFV ''Namer''===
[[File:IDF-Namer003.jpg|thumb|upright|Namer in [[Yad LaShiryon]] 62nd [[Independence Day (Israel)|Independence Day]] exhibition.]]

Namer (Hebrew: [[leopard]], which is also an abbreviating of "'''Na'''gmash (APC) '''Mer'''kava") is an [[infantry fighting vehicle]] based on Merkava Mark IV chassis. In service since 2008, the vehicle was initially called ''Nemmera'' (Hebrew: leopardess), but later renamed to ''Namer''.

Namer is armed with either a [[M2 Browning|.50 M2 Browning Heavy Machinegun]] or [[Mk 19 grenade launcher|Mk 19 Automatic Grenade Launcher]] mounted on a [[Samson Remote Controlled Weapon Station]] (RCWS), another 7.62&nbsp;mm [[FN MAG|MAG]] machine gun, 60&nbsp;mm mortar and smoke grenades. Like Merkava Mark IV it is optimized for high level of crew survival on the battlefield. The ''Namer'' has a complement of 3 crewmen (commander, driver, and RCWS gunner) and may carry up to 9 infantrymen and a stretcher. An ambulance variant can carry two casualties on stretchers and medical equipment.

The [[Golani Brigade]] used two ''Namer'' IFVs during [[Cast Lead]] operation.

===Merkava ARV ''Nemmera''===
The Merkava Armored Recovery Vehicle initially called ''Namer'' (Hebrew: leopard), but subsequently renamed to '''''Nemmera''''' (Hebrew: leopardess). It is an [[armored recovery vehicle]] based on a Merkava Mark III or IV chassis. It can tow disabled tanks and carries a complete Merkava back-up power pack that can be changed in the field in under 90 minutes.

There are two versions of Nemmera: the heavier equipped with a 42 ton-meter [[Crane (machine)|crane]] and a 35 ton-meter [[winch]], and the smaller equipped with a smaller crane.

===Merkava Howitzer ''Sholef''===
[[File:Sholef-beyt-hatotchan-2.jpg|thumb|upright|Sholef in Beit ha-Totchan, [[Zikhron Ya'aqov]], Israel.]]

Two prototypes of '''''Sholef''''' ("Gunslinger" or "Slammer") 155&nbsp;mm [[self-propelled howitzer]] with automatic loading system were built by [[Soltam]] in 1984–1986. The 45-ton vehicle had a long 155&nbsp;mm calibre gun barrel giving a range of 45+ km. Using [[GPS]], [[inertial navigation]], and an internal [[Fire-control system|fire control]] computer, it was also capable of direct fire while on the move. It never entered production.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.israeli-weapons.com/weapons/vehicles/self_propelled_artillery/slammer/Slammer.html |title=Slammer |accessdate=2008-07-04 |publisher=Israeli-Weapons | archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20080617225521/http://www.israeli-weapons.com/weapons/vehicles/self_propelled_artillery/slammer/Slammer.html| archivedate = June 17, 2008}}</ref>
{{-}}

==Replacement==
On July 14, 2011, [[The Jerusalem Post]] reported that the IDF was beginning to develop a successor for the Merkava series of tanks. The development was started in part by the arrival of the [[Trophy (countermeasure)|Trophy]] [[active protection system]]. With the system's ability to intercept threats at a stand-off distance, there was a review of the need for vehicles like the Merkava to have thick, heavy layers of armor.<ref>[http://www.jpost.com/Defense/Article.aspx?id=229295 IDF considering replacements for heavy Merkava tank] - The Jerusalem Post.com, July 14, 2011</ref> By July 2012, details began to emerge of considerations for developing technologies for the new design. One possibility is the replacement of the traditional main gun with a [[Directed-energy weapon|laser cannon]] or an [[electromagnetic pulse]] cannon. Other improvements could include a [[Hybrid vehicle|hybrid-electric engine]] and a reduced crew of two. The goals of the new tank are to make it faster, better protected, more interoperable, and more lethal than the current Merkava. The IDF is hoping for it to be operational by 2020.<ref>[http://www.jpost.com/Defense/Article.aspx?id=277178 The IDF’s future tank: Electromagnetic cannon] - The Jerusalem Post.com, July 12, 2012</ref>

==References==
;Notes
{{Reflist|2}}

==External links==
{{Commons|Merkava tank}}
{{Portal|Tank}}
*[http://www.army-technology.com/projects/merkava4/ Merkava Mk 4] at Army-technology.com
*[http://www.army-technology.com/projects/merkava/ Merkava Mk 3] at Army-technology.com
*[http://www.defense-update.com/products/m/merkava-lic.htm Merkava Mk 3 LIC] at Defense-Update
*[http://www.defense-update.com/directory/merkava4.htm Merkava Mk 4] at Defense-Update
*[http://www.defense-update.com/features/du-2-06/feature-merkava.htm Continued evolution] at Defense-Update
*[http://www.waronline.org/en/IDF/arms/merkava.htm Merkava Mk 1,2,3,4] at War Online.
*[http://www.fprado.com/armorsite/Mekava.htm The Armor Site! page on Merkava]
*[http://www.tsahal-miniature.com/merkava.html Complet liste of Merkava tank]
*[http://www.israeli-weapons.com/weapons/vehicles/tanks/merkava/Merkava.html Israeli-Weapons.com Merkava Page]
;External media:
*Joel Chasnoff, "The 188th Crybaby Brigade: A Skinny Jewish Kid from Chicago Fights Hezbollah--A Memoir", 2010
;Video links
*{{youtube|dSww8vkjGIM|Merkava Mk4 interior video}}
*{{youtube|bI-d8RuPnDo&|Merkava Mk3 promotional video}}
* [http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/general/2007/04/2008525185818574335.html ''God's Chariot'']  - ''A look at Israel's Merkava tank and the myth of Israeli military invincibility'', al-Jazeera English, 2007

[[Category:Post–Cold War main battle tanks]]
[[Category:Main battle tanks of Israel]]
[[Category:Main battle tanks of the Cold War|Merkava Mark 1 2]]
[[Category:Israeli inventions]]
[[Category:Weapons of Israel]]

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