BT Light Tank Series
| BT Light Tanks | |
|---|---|
| File:BT-121.jpg BT-121 "Grypo" Light Tank | |
| Type | Light Tank |
| Place of origin |  Inyursta |
| Service history | |
| In service | 2009 - present |
| Production history | |
| Designed | 1994-2002 |
| Unit cost | $Y 5-8mil |
| Produced | 2007 - present |
| Specifications | |
| Weight | 22,500kg (24 tons) |
| Length | 7.6m |
| Width | 4.2m |
| Height | 2.1m |
| Armor | Spaced laminate armor base layer, ceramic plate-addons with additional NERA |
Main armament | See: Variants |
Secondary armament | Coaxial 7.62x51mm MG, top-mounted GE-3 14.5x120mm heavy machine gun and top-mounted 7.62x51mm MG |
| Engine | CPP-1984 640hp |
Operational range | 550 km on internal fuel and energy reserves |
| Speed |
|
The BT Light Tank Series is a family of armored fighting vehicles developed in Inyursta. After an initial failed bid to the Inyurstan Army, the BT series (specifically the BT-121 Grypo) was exported to a number of smaller countries.
Development
During the military reforms of the 90's and the ongoing retirement of 50's - 70's Red Monsoon-era medium tanks, the need arose for heavier armored "punch" for mechanized brigades. Debates ensued among procumbent officials, both civilian and military, regarding the adoption of more main battle tanks versus more IFVs. However, following the doctrinal adoption of the IAV-74 Carcujo MGS used by lighter wheeled-mechanized brigades and airborne forces, and the purchase of the Mericki-designed LT-46 Orca a.k.a. "YT-4 Alligator" by the Inyurstan Marines; the option was selected for a "light tank" style option.
Requirements for the vehicle included:
- Heavier armor than existing APCs
- Medium-caliber main gun
- Weight less than 40t