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Article: IDF training crews for new Merkava tanks. (Mid-East/Africa Report).(Israeli Defense Forces )
- Article from:
- Journal of Electronic Defense
- Article date:
- April 1, 2003
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2003 Horizon House Publications, Inc. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are gearing up for the 65-ton Merkava Mk. 4 tank to enter service. Instructors at the IDF Armor School are preparing to train its first Merkava Mk. 4 tank crew members. The crews will undergo standard basic training, followed by a specialized tank course to acquire a proficiency in communications, driving, and artillery. After completing these courses, the crews enter the final phase of training, during which they learn how to function as a team, platoon, and company.
The Merkava (Hebrew for "chariot") tank entered IDF service during the 1970s. Since then, six versions of the tank have been produced: Mks. lb. 2, 2b, 3, 3b, and now ...