China's ZTQ‑15 tanks gear up with anti-drone defenses

Russia and Ukraine are not the only countries equipping their tanks with additional protection against drones. Footage published by the Chinese state television network CCTV shows ZTQ-15 light tanks enhanced with anti-drone cages protecting the hull and turret of the vehicle.

The war between Russia and Ukraine is a serious test for various military equipment. Observers are clearly drawing conclusions from these battles as solutions like anti-drone cages and mesh screens gain popularity. Such measures have recently appeared on Chinese ZTQ-15 light tanks. These solutions aim to defend against strikes from armed drones, which present a significant challenge on the battlefield.

The Chinese Type 15 tank, also known as the ZTQ-15, is a light tank developed by China in response to the need for a modern combat vehicle that performs well in challenging terrains, such as the high-altitude regions of Tibet or the jungle. Designed for flexibility and mobility, it is meant to operate in areas where standard main battle tanks (MBTs), like the Type 99 or Type 96, may have difficulty maneuvering due to their weight and technical limitations.

The Type 15 stands out for its relatively low weight compared to traditional main battle tanks—it weighs about 36 tons in its base version and, with additional armor, can reach up to 40 tons. This is a significant difference compared to heavy tanks, which often exceed 55 tons. Thanks to its lighter construction, the tank is exceptionally mobile. It is powered by a diesel engine with 1,000 hp, providing a good power-to-weight ratio and enabling speeds of up to about 45 mph on paved roads.

The Chinese Type 15/ZTQ-15 tanks utilize composite armor, which can be further strengthened with modular armor systems or the mesh screens shown in the CCTV footage. This vehicle also has an active protection system that detects and neutralizes threats like incoming anti-tank missiles.

The primary weapon of this tank is a 105 mm smoothbore cannon, capable of firing both anti-tank and high-explosive rounds. It can also fire guided missiles, which significantly increases its effectiveness at longer distances.