tank china ZTZ59D1

The ZTZ59D1 (Chinese: ZTZ59D1式中型坦克; industry code WZ120C) was the prototype for what would later become the ZTZ59D in PLAGF service. Although the PLAGF had already upgraded part of its fleet of Type 59 tanks with domestically-produced 105 mm cannons, further enhancements were planned to improve protection and its FCS at a more economical cost. These improvements included FY-1/2 ERA to counter different types of threats and a new digitalised FCS. The modified tanks, designated WZ120C, passed certification in April 1995, featuring technologies that would later be used in the ZTZ59D, aside from the main cannon. These tanks remained in service with the PLAGF armoured corps until gradually being replaced by wheeled assault guns or the ZTQ15.