[Coming Soon] ZTZ96 Platoon: A New Generation

Platoon ZTZ96 (Rank IX)

The ZTZ96 main battle tank is the result of a long process of successive modernization of PLA tanks to the modern level. Initially, the tanks, which were later designated ZTZ96, were developed for export to Pakistan. However, the successful combination of the vehicle's combat characteristics ensured its place in the ranks of the Chinese army as a transitional option from the outdated Type 59 and Type 69 series tanks to modern advanced tanks. Despite the newer models, the modernized ZTZ96 series tanks are still in service with the PLA.

The ZTZ96 is one of the top tanks in China's senior ranks. It is truly versatile, has balanced combat characteristics, and its few weaknesses are compensated by obvious advantages. So, today we are talking about the novelty of the next major update of War Thunder Mobile – the Chinese main battle tank ZTZ96!

This new high-level tank is reminiscent of both the Russian T-72 tanks and the Western tank development schools. It is quite well protected – the front projection of the hull and turret are equipped with combined defense modules. They are particularly effective against guided missiles and HEAT tank shells. Protection against the kinetic shells can be called average – the armor will stop most of the armor-piercing shells. But sub-caliber shells from most tanks of the same rank as the ZTZ96 are likely to penetrate it.

The armament will be a definite advantage of the tank. The ZTZ96 is armed with a smooth-bore 125mm gun with a huge automatic loader inside the hull under the turret. The available shells include an excellent APFSDS and a good HEATFS. The ZTZ96 will not have much difficulty in penetrating any enemies, most of which the Chinese will be able to take head-on!

The ZTZ96 platoon teammates will be three excellent combat vehicles: CM11, AFT09, PGZ09.

CM11

The CM11 main battle tank, known locally as "勇虎" (Brave Tiger), is a curious combination of the M60 series tank chassis, turret and gun from the M48 Patton series tanks, and additional armor in the form of explosive reactive armor blocks. It is not the fastest and most dynamic tank in the game, but it has one of the best APFSDS for its caliber. A good option for fighting in open terrain!

AFT09

AFT09 is is one of the dedicated ATGM carrier of PLA alongside with platforms with HJ-10 ATGM in PLA service. The AFT09 can get on the enemy team's nerves by quickly flanking them and attacking from unexpected angles!

PGZ09

The PGZ09 is armed with 35mm Oerlikon automatic cannons with high muzzle velocity which can also fire APDS. So if there are no enemy aircraft on the horizon, you can try to attack ground vehicles and even capture points – the speed of the vehicle is very good!

Important

The ZTZ96 Platoon (Rank IX) becomes accessible once you reach level 17 of the tank campaign. You have the option to instantly upgrade your campaign level using Golden Eagles to gain faster access to this platoon compared to other players, or you can progress through battles to level up.

Please remember that as soon as Campaign Level 18 becomes available, Level 17, 17* and 17** platoons will merge into a single Level 17. Vehicles purchased for Golden Eagles will remain as a premium even after the levels are merged. The final coefficients on the three vehicles will be the same as the level 17 vehicles.