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Description

Big thanks to schwarzweiler for creating this tank for me, it is first variant of few that follows, hope you guys like it, i like it. So some parts in descrpition are missing, il add it today or tomorrw, i rushed things a little, although i love tanks and i know lots about them, i dont know everything, so i apologize if i used wrong terminology or if i make some mistakes.

Place of Origin: US(NovaTech), Germany

Service history:

In service: 2017 - present

Production history:

Designer: NovaTECH, Krauss-Maffei
Designed: 2012
Manufacturer: NovaTECH
, Krauss-Maffei
Unit cost: H7A1 "Grey Wolf" US$ 6.7 million
                H7A2 "Grizzly" US$ 7.2 milion
Produced: 2017 - present
Number built: 430x H7A1, 75x H7A2, 86x H7A1A1 (as Leopard III for German Army), 100x H7A1A2 (as M2A1 Sentinel) for United States

Specification:

Weight: H7A1: 58.2 tonns (62.6 short tons)
             H7A2: 62.8 tonns (71.1 short tons)
             H7A1A1: 58.2 tonns (62.6 short tons)
             H7A2A1: 60.4 tonns (65.1 short tons)

Length: (all variants) 9.90 meters
Width: (all variants except H7A2) 3.85 meters, H7A2 3.92 meters
Heigth: (all variants), 3.02 meters (not counting AA gun
Crew: 3 (can operate with two)

Armor: Second generation of Adaptive(modular) Crystaline-Ceramic-Ablative (CCA) armor

Main armament: 1x 125mm High velocity-Electrothermal Smoothbore cannon
Secondary armament: 1x 7.62mm machine gun, 12.5mm high velocity AA gun, or 25mm high impact AA gun

Engine: NovaTech MBT10 Terra Hybrid disel-electric-hydrogen engine, 1,850 hp, 1,750, Kw 2950 rpm
Power weight: 28.4 PS/t (21.5 Kw/t)

Transsmision: HML 387L

Suspension: Advanced Torsion bar suspension
Fuel capacity: 750 litres

Operational range: 1250 km (internal fuel), outer fuel tank allows up to 1970 km)
Speed: 85 km per hour (on road), 75 km field speed, 91km with engine booster

Development:

NovaTech was only ten years old at the time when first designs for military vehicles were even created. As NovaTech establish itself quickly on market, growing in massive coorporation and having several large devlopment and reaserch centres, it slowly starts to develop military equipment. After unsuccessful High mobility protector vehicle called Raccon (which didnt see any deployment with military, however it did see some buyers, civilian and military security firms. Creation of new armored vehicle started. From beginning NT wanted a new generation of MBT. At the time advanced generation three and early models of so called forth generation slowly enter the service with first T-14 Armata (which was by many believed to be forth generation tank instead advanced third). There was very few of the new tanks developed and most of existing and those that will enter service were simply upgrades of older tanks. M1 Abrams (M1A3 latest), Leopard 2A7, T-90MS were three tanks that were upgrades of older models, Challenger II was not really a new tank, but was among most armored and protected ones together with South Korean K2 Black Panther Turkish Atalay, Leclerc and Ariete followed and finally not to forgot other tanks like Japanese Type 10, Chinese Type 99 and MBT-3000. All those tanks were capable ones, but as said before most of them were upgrades of earlier Gen III tanks or based on them, a few were new.

NovaTech military technologies section know that although tank is behemoth on battlefield, it slowly losing ground to faster but less capable and armored vehicles as well tanks show to completley suck against air.

Knowing all facts NT start bold project on new tank, one which would really be called the strongest and best tank in the world, one that will have components from several tanks but it will be brand new one, tank which would first be called the Gen V MBT. The project was offically called H7, no other designation were given during early stage. Several prototypes were built all under H7 name, and first chosen protoype, pre production unit was finally called H7A1 Grey Wolf

Less then five years later, newly designed tank which was now called H7A1 Grey Wolf would be presented.

Design:

1. Protection:

Because of fact that NovaTech designed Grey Wolf after Leopard 2A6-7 it have many similarities, but those were mostly external and there is where all similarities actually ends. Its turret features similar shape as that of Leopard 2a7, especially the slopes which were almost the same as those on Leopard. However there was massive difference between two tanks in its armor. Leo2 uses spaced multilayer design its armor was combination of steel plates of different hardness, elastic materials and other non metallic materials and were in same similar if not the same as those on British and American tank which used advanced Chobham armor. Grey Wolfs armor was far stronger and resilient then Chobham. It was not revealed how exactly placed (classefied) was, but it is known that it is revolutionary new armor created by NT after years of work on creation of brand new armor. Armor was adaptive Crystalline-Ceramic-Ablative armor also known as CCA. Crystalline part was believed to be mixture of diamond and other hard crystals mixed also with ceramic parts plus on the top of this was added brand new and recently developed armor called Ablative. Ablative was created by mixture of several different metals as well the Ablatium that was found in North Africa, although this armor was rare, scientists and engineers of NT manage to replicate it, while not 100% strong as original it was still around 70-80% strong. Together with Crystalline-Ceramic this mixture of two completely different armors makes the outer shell of the tank. It was also known that Crystalline-Ceramic armor was located inside of Ablative armor which dressed over it, not fully understand how was this done as process was highly classified. And even if someone tries to tear it apart it would not be able to replicate it without NT.
This highly advanced armor is very resistant and most of current ammunition types could not penetrate armor of Grey Wolf from 700 meters and above that. If enemy fired on Grey Wolf from closer range then 700 m, there is a good chance that armor could be penetrated, especially on engine section, however only high velocity sabot rounds could do that and advanced anti-tank and other type of heavy missiles.

Even if enemy came closer than 700 meters, it can only disable the tank as crew inside was protected with additional layer of internal armor, and if unarmed turret variant was chosen, all three crew members are located in forward armored compartment (same arrangement as that on Russian T-14 Armata).

Grey Wolf’s armor is created to match every known anti-tank round and has high capability to survive even low yield laser-energy based weapons thanks to the Ablative armor. This tank is not invincible, although its armor is the strongest one ever built by humans, it can be penetrated by High Velocity Armor Piercing Sabot rounds (or HVAPSR for short) or any other Sabot-titanium penetrators from closer range. HVAPSR have terrific penetration power (but less explosive power), it can penetrate one solid meter of Chobham armor, meaning that one shot usually means kill. However this round is not common as it is still in development with NovaTech and Rheinmetall. However other heavy Sabot rounds could damage and even knock out Grey Wolf from close range, if the round hits the weak spot, however unlike other tanks armor was differently placed on Grey Wolf.

Frontal armor and frontal turret armor is usually the strongest part on the every tank, however this was not case with Grey Wolf, its frontal hull armor as well frontal mantle armor of turret is still its strongest part however other sides were improved as well. Turret armor of Grey Wolf have around 175mm on frontal part, 185mm mantle, sides and aft section (or simply back of the turret) also have 175mm plus additional protection from the ammunition compartment which is located on back and adding additional protection. There is 140mm thick internal door between ammo storage and crew compartment that protect crew in case of destruction of ammo rack (however all ammunition were encased in so called wet coating which prevents them to explode if received direct hit). Roof of the turret was always been the weakest part of the turret, usually enemy planes or attack helicopters cold easily destroy tank by hitting it on the top. Grey Wolf has 180mm thickness on roof section which allows it good defense against air attacks (combined with its powerful active defenses).

Overall thickness of Grey Wolf turret was far better than on any existing tank thanks to the new CCA armor. For example and fully upgraded Challenger 2 tank (CLEP upgrade) have 212mm of frontal turret armor thickness, more than Grey Wolf but the Chobham armor was heavier then CCA armor.

Hull armor was also much better than that on many current tanks. Frontal armor was the strongest; however side armor were almost of equal thickness as the frontal one. Aft armor is weaker than that on other sides, but protected with complex internal engine placing that allows more protection for engine itself, taking that engine it is built as armored cocoon it adds extra protection. Its flour armor is strong as the frontal one, and was capable to survive even an IDE detonation direct beneath the tank (although larger IDE’s could heavily damage or destroy the tank).

Secondary protection:

Although Grey Wolf has superior armor then any other tank, additional safety measures and protections were added to increase survivability of the crew. Evacuation hatch was placed on the flour behind driver that could easily be accessed by any crew members. The hatch is armored and have two options to be open, by the push of the small button near it it move from its socket and slide to the left or if this is jammed or no power in the tank it can open manually by small lever.

All possible sources that could cause fire were placed away from the crew. Ammunition and hydraulics were not placed in same compartment with the crew. Ammo is placed into the basket on the aft side of the turret as well beneath the turret closer to the engine compartment (secondary rack). In case of ammo detonation, 140mm thick armored doors will protect crew from explosion blast and will direct it away from the crew.

Grey Wolf crew compartment is fully protected against Nuclear, biological and chemical (NBC) threats. Grey Wolf had also the Drager NBC over pressurization system which was also installed on Leopard series. It was one of few things that GW inherit from Leopard.

There is fourteen 76 or 86mm (Depends on choice) Argoon smoke mortars on GW. Ten were located on aft – side of the turret (five on each side). Four were located on upper frontal part of the turret in front of armored commander’s hatch (two on each side facing up). While the four on the upper part of turret must be reloading manually, those ten have automatic mini reloaded that have two additional smoke chargers for each mortar. There are several different firing possibilities for smoke mortars.

Like every current tank Grey Wolf also have anti-fire protection system on board, usually the Halon extinguisher bottles that were installed in crew compartment.

Armor upgrades:

There is several different armor upgrades for Grey Wolf, although its standard armor is more than enough to protect it from most of the current anti-tank weaponry.

    -          Additional armor skirts could be placed on the sides of the tank increasing the protection level for forty percent.

    -          Additional composite Ablative layer for the aft – engine section that increase engine protection.

    -          Additional turret armor which increase thickness of all side on 210mm.

    -          Additional frontal glacial armor which adds additional 250mm thickness.

    -          Highly resilient tracks which replace the standard Diehl Mk VI tracks (developed specially for GW).

    -          Slat armor against RPG’s and other portable anti-tank weapons although its primary armor is more than withstand multiple RPG hits and receiving little damage from it.

    -

CCA armor installed on Grey Wolf can survive hits from most of the current ammunition types, those that would damage or destroy a standard tank from range of 1km would only scratch the armor of Grey Wolf, and however on closer range any tank with strong penetration rounds can either heavily damage or destroy the GW. Kinetic energy is stronger as the target is closer, and although CCA is powerful it is not powerful enough to survive heavy Sabot round from let say 300-500 meters. Still with additional armor plantings it can survive direct hit.

Armaments:

Primary

Primary armament of H7A1 Grey Wolf is 125mm High velocity-Electrothermal Smoothbore cannon, one of several different cannons developed by NovaTech and Rheinmetall.

And GW turret was capable to hold cannons from 105 to 155mm calibers.

High Velocity-Electrothermal Smoothbore cannon or simply called HVES is advance cannon that were developed as a new generation of tank cannons. This has effective range up to 4.5km although it can fire high velocity rounds to the 5.5km range. This makes GW tank with longest firing range on world.

Of the far the target is the less is chance that it will be hit but thanks to special ammunition developed for this new cannon it assures that target will be hit as long as its in 4.5km range.

There is several different types of ammunition that this tank can carry and it usually carries only forty rounds. Twenty are stored in ammo rack behind the main crew compartment. Rest was stored beneath the compartment which is connected with upper compartment and advanced autoloader can pick rounds from both. Loader have dual basket which can carry two                                                      shells this allows firing of both of them in less than ten seconds. Procedure was simply: Loader bring both rounds, one rounds enter the canon, aim and fire, moments later second round already entering the cannon barrel and was ready for firing. Autoloader automatically move to the ammo rack for new two shells. Time between the next firing is only ten seconds although seven can be if autoloader is used on faster speed.

Shells however are slightly different from standard ones. They were created from one part with aft section breaks away after firing and exiting the barrel, usually this second part lands few meters in front of the tank but it have interesting side effect, it conceals the firing, so the enemy can’t see the flash-smoke that is result of firing.

As said before autoloader is new generation fully automatized but also very dangerous for inexperienced crew, where crewmembers can lost hand if its in way of the autoloader. The new canon also has less muzzle shock, less dangerous for crew inside.

There is several ammunition types Grey Wolf can fire, although usually carry two.

HEAT – High –Explosive anti-tank warheads – standard anti-tank round that most of the tanks on the world use.

HEAPAT – High explosive – armor piercing anti-tank warhead – specialized warhead that was composed from two parts, penetrations (armor piercing) and highly explosive part. This warhead slams on enemy armor, penetrate it and then explode from inside.

APDS – Armor piercing Sabot round – Warhead with heavy Sabot tip that can penetrate highest armors, even the GW armor can be penetrated if hit from below 700 meters.

HVAPSR – High Velocity Armor Piercing Sabot round – One of new designed warheads, specialize in penetration of heavy targets. This round is the only round that can destroy or disable GW from 1km range. Very deadly round that can destroy most of tanks in the world with one shot from 3.5 to 4km range.

SAPTR – Supersonic Armor piercing Titanium Round – the most deadliest round of all because it is the modular warhead capable to be used as simple armor piercing warhead, AP with HE capabilities and AP with HN (high napalm) rounds. This warhead can hit and destroy target on 4.5km range although it hit and destroy target on 5.1km range (testing)

There is several other different warheads that could enter service. GW usually carry Heat, HEAPT and APDS rounds, while HVAPSR as well SAPTR are still not enter service.

There is additional rounds that were more elemental and chemical in nature. NovaTech believes that it could change the battlefield, instead of destroying enemy, disable it.

Like:

HEM – High Electromagnetic round – Specialized round to disable all electronic on enemy tank, thus disabling it without destroying it.

HCR – High Corrosion round – Very dangerous round specialized in destroying enemy tank armor, it is highly dangerous if coming to contact with skin. In case of been hit or sprayed by this corrosion, enemy would be melted in mere seconds; usually corrosion eats the skin until nothing remains.

Thermal rounds – Different thermal rounds – multipurpose rounds

All of these upper rounds were highly experimental, and there is no evidence that they would enter service any time soon.

Secondary armaments

Grey Wolf have one 7.62mm co-axial machine gun located on right side of the turret, commander use it for close range defense against infantry. This machine gun is German in origin like those on Leopard 2A6 it belong newly designed MG4 machine gun, designed especially for Grey Wolf and Leopard AA6/7 tanks. Standard amount of ammunition for this machine gun is about 2500 rounds, although it can be increased to 3200.

There is also additional heavier machine gun 12.5mm on the roof of the turret, it is automatized and also controlled by commander. There are different variants that can be added from standard 12.5mm machine guns to heavier 25mm AA auto cannons; however most common variant is NT HAG 12.5 Rapid Vulcano remote weapon station. This weapon station can be operated by both commander and gunner, although driver also have the weapon control pad (combat variant of tablet) that can use to control the RWS while commander operated co-axial machine gun and gunner use the main cannon. There is a small arsenal of different RWS and other AA machine guns that could be added, that depends on buyer. Standard amount of ammunitions Is around 400-600.

Fire control

Fire control was completely created and designed by NovaTech. There is no much information about it with exception that has all standard and some which were greatly improved like high zoom magnification, stabilization for primary and secondary sights. As with all modern tank, GW is capable of firing on the move.

Its firing computer is state of art, designed in that way to help gunner as much as possible. All that gunner need to do Is rotating the turret in direction he needs, target enemy and fire, press reload and fire again. The computer would calculate distance to target, wind changes, elevation so that shot goes directly into enemy tank or vehicle. Although fire control system is highly advanced, for most important jobs in tank there is also manual possibility. These options allow gunner to use both firing computer or if he is experienced to do it manually (adjusting barrel and all other pre-firing works).

Heavy automatization help crew a lot especially the gunner. He has a LED display that gives him control of autoloader, barrel and firing control. He can chose the shell that was needed load it into autoloader basket which will automatically move the first shell into the barrel (if barrel is empty) and preparing the second one to be loaded immediately after last was fired. Because of computer system and all chips are different then standard ones chances that tank will be shut by electromagnetic pulse or hacking were none existing and this is because all electronical - chip components were created from crystal, which protects inner core of the crystal chip from EMP or any other things that could shut down and fry the electrical parts.
However gunner can as told before do all work manually, loading shell, adjusting the barrel to proper firing position and fire, although then loading capabilities were different as manually need slightly longer to load the shells. Turret rotation system is electrical as on all modern tanks. Its rotation speed I the same as that on Leopard 2A6, so there was no much change in that as NT engineers believed that Leo2A6 rotation was good enough. Of course there is also manual rotation system.

Unlike many tanks were commander seeks targets to fire, Grey Wolf have special thermal sensors – connected on combat cameras which can seek enemy closest enemy targets on its own (this option can be turn off or on by commander). GW have multiple of sensors located on all sides of the tank even on tanks undercarriage, there is also multiple of cameras which allow view from all side of tank. Undercarriage senors as those on the front were very important, as they can detect possible mine field and thus save the tank from damage or destruction. Undercarriage is heavly armored and can survive anti-tank mine but still additional sensors help preventing any damage.

ATL – or Automatic Target locator is main in charge when searching for enemy tanks and other vehicles. It uses data from sensors and cameras, calculating the closest enemy (or closest threat) and signaling gunner its location. ATL also works with thermal sensors which can detect heat of enemy tank (engine and heat of crew, although many armors on modern tanks cannot be penetrated but still there was a ways to locate enemy tank especially if its engines are turn on. It can also detect enemy tank muzzle flash, warning from where it was fired allowing the crew to concentrate on the highest priority quickly and deadly.

Tank optics and sensors are designed to operate in any theatre from tropical, desert or artic. Sandstroms and Rain-Ice storm cannot affect the systems on board the GW.

There is no need to add that GW have best of best sensors, cameras, and can operate as said above in all conditions including day-night.

Tertiary armament

While GW does not fire anti-tank missiles from main cannon, it can have additional weapons installed on turret sides like eight anti-tank or anti-air missile launchers. These missile launchers were usually dual or quad, allowing firing of two or four missiles from each launcher, in total two or four on each side of the turret. Each launcher carrier’s only one missile, which means it need reload by the supply crews. However tank commander after firing all missiles can simply discard the launchers which will be picked by the supporting crew, reloaded and placed on tank again.

Missiles can be used (as told before) against armored vehicles, but also AA variants against low flying aircrafts like helicopters, range of this missiles were usually about 10km more than enough for tank crew to prepare to counter enemy air units. Although jets can avoid missiles.

This practically gives Grey Wolf good AA capabilities although not all tanks have these systems.

Active and passive defense systems (countermeasures)

Grey Wolf has superior armor and mobility as well highly advanced computer systems, but this is not the only thing gives it edge in the combat. It is also its active and passive defenses.

Active

Primary active defense system or countermeasure of Grey Wolf is the highly advanced Gungnir active defense system. This system is based on current modern systems used by late Gen III and early Gen IV MBT’s but highly improved.

It use same system as current ADS systems, against anti-tank guided missiles (ATGM), light anti-tank weapons, Top attack missiles (missiles that attack from above, as armored vehicles usually have lightest armor on top), heat seeking missiles that lock on engine exhaust and follow until hit the target.

However this was only one part of Gugnir’s capabilities. Gugnir is also connected with four lock-on sensors, sensors created to detect when enemy tank or armored vehicle lock on tank, computer can quickly calculate from where it target lock coming, it can turn the turret on its own and fire on enemy without crew even need to do anything. Of course this can be turn off, but in tricky situations where tank is exposed and visibility is low (although it can see through bad visibility) every second counts, especially if there is more than one target, instead choosing the best target, gunner can chose combat computer to chose for him and find him the target and if enemy lock on the tank, computer will rotate the turret (now option in programming can allow gunner to be the one firing the gun, not the computer itself all depends on which option customer chose).

This is very useful option, because while well trained human will do calmly and steady in combat, sometimes the combat may turn in unpredictable way. Allowing combat computer to take over rotation and firing the first shot or just turning the turret in enemy location and let gunner fire is great help.

(no GW do not have artificial intelligence computer, every action is based on programming and sensor scans).

Many modern tanks can track muzzle flashes and heat signatures from exhaust (engines), however due CCA armor which not only protect tank, it can also hide tank from infrared and other thermo cameras and sensor.

An well camouflaged Grey Wolf in winter condition (in forest for example) cannot be detected, thanks to its armor and other protections, it do not show any thermal signature at all, crew have enough sights and telescopes that they do not even need to go outside (or do commander need to pik from its hatch). Muzzle flash protection as well specially developed shells can completely hide the flash thus preventing enemy to locate you, although if GW destroy one enemy tank, the one near it can calculate or try calculating possible location from where it was fired based on hit on friendly tank.

Additional sensors were mounted on GW, and those were close range sensors, which can scan area up to 50m (can increase to 100m if area is clear). Commander can watch on his monitor and if he receives approach warning he can see what is actually coming. Combat computer do not open fire on approaching targets, because it could simply be friendlies, but they are not if commander recognize enemy soldiers, he can order turret rotation and fire on enemy soldiers.

There is several different ADS that can be installed however Gugnir is by far most superior.

With Gugnir there is also Jamming capabilities, GW can use jammer that can send false information to enemy drone hovering above, missiles can receive wrong directions (additional anti-heated-guided missile defenses).

Passive

Grey Wolf have already advanced defenses like highly advanced armor and equally advanced active defense systems, however it also have at least one passive defense system.

CQDK – Close Quarter Defense Kit, this is additional layer of high explosive armor that can be added to the sides of the tank, on engine block and even roof of the turret, increasing already high defense capabilities.

If tank will be used in urban area, changes can be done from standard CCA side skirts to ECCA skirts, or enhanced CCA armor block which receive additional explosive layer together with additional sensor package which then jam and destroy incoming missiles, or if hits it force all explosion in opposite direction of the tank.

Propulsion

Grey Wolf has several engine options although standard one is NovaTech MBT10 Terra Hybrid disel-electric-hydrogen engine, 1,850 hp, 1,750, Kw 2950 rpm. This engine have several in built options which allows it to be overcharged – clocked for higher speed. As it name says it is a hybrid which can use diesel fuel, electric power (it have two electric batteries which have enough strength to power tank for eight to ten hours before they need recharge) and hydrogen.

What this means? It means that tank can use both diesel and hydrogen fuel for power. Engine block is large and armored, every part of its was specifically designed for dual purpose. And new hydrogen fuel was proved to be cheaper and more environment friendly. But even if tank use diesel, thanks to the advanced engine it spends much less than standard tank engines which means that with same amount of fuel that Leopard 2 needs, it can cross larger distances. Leopard 2 have capacity of 1,200 liters and with that it can cross 550km. Grey Wolf have the option for same capacity, however standard variant have capacity for 750 liters and can cross around 1250km, around 1800km with Leo 2 capacity and 1970km with external fuel tank. Now yes it can carry less fuel but due advance engine design, it spends much less fuel per km which greatly increases its range of operation.

Engine itself as said can come in different variations, and all have many modular parts that allow maintenance crews to service tanks much faster especially engine sections.

Top speed on the asphalt road is 85 km/h, additional engine booster can increase it to 91 km/h however although this option exist it is not recommended. 75 km/h is speed across fields and other non asphalt roads. Its advanced suspension allows it fast turns great mobility and to carry heavy weight without reducing its speed.

Unlike many heavily armored western tanks which although are fast and maneuverable do not have the same jumping capabilities seen in Russian tanks, GW is more than jumping as T-90. However of those kinds of maneuvers it is recommended that all additional armor is removed thus removing additional weight of the tank allowing it to perform such maneuvers which would prevent any damage on undercarriage and torsion system.

Interior

Interior was much better organized then on most modern tanks. Driver is usually located in front in middle. He is well protected and thanks to several cameras he is not needed to pik from his hatch to see where he is going, there is also several options which allows him better views and more time to think in forward. He control tank by right arm via a small joystick which allows him to go right – left, forward – back and with small button on joystick itself to rotate the body of tank in direction he wants.

Commander is on right, having his own monitor (two actually), one for tracking enemy movement and sensors and second for receiving orders from command or contacting other tanks (if silent moving is on).

Gunner is on left also having a monitor that allow him to chose right shell, to see how much is left also and what is status of gun. There is second monitor for sensors, proximity sensors and Gugnir control.

VARIANTS:

H7 – prototype

H7A1 Grey Wolf – Standard variant

H7A2 Grizzly – heavily upgraded variant more oriented for urban combat then open fields, additional heavy CCA armor on side and turret, slightly different armaments especially the secondary weapons. It also has option for slightly changed turret

H7A1A1 “Leopard III” – After success of the Grey Wolf, German government was interested to purchase Grey Wolf as replacement for older Leopard 2s in service and addition of new tanks. Joint work between NovaTech and Kraus-Maffei created new variant developed for Germany. This variant was similar to H7A1 Grey Wolf, with exception on slightly different main and secondary armaments as well some smaller changes to the turret.

H7A2A1 “M2 Sentinel” – American variant of Grey Wolf-Grizzley variant however this variant lacks the additional armor on the turret and side armor is added only when needed. Slightly different turret. This variant is capable of both urban and open terrain. US military was impressed with capabilities of H7A1-A2 and after extensive tests against its own M1A2 and A3 (both type lose terribly, especially on long range combat), US decided that it will purchase around five hundred of this tanks for first batch, to replace large number of old M1s and M1A1s, while M1A2 and M1A3 would remain in service for next fifteen years.

This was also the first non American tank in modern times that was purchased by US and that was not of American origin (no matter that most of the tank was designed and assembled in US), as Nova Tech was not funded by government like other American military companies.

It was also first tank that was not named after American officer.

Other variants:

H7A1Au Grey Wolf – This is the option for buyers. Instead of classical interior, interior is changed, driver was moved on left, commander on right and gunner behind them in heavily armored cacoon, while turret was unmanned, similar to T-14 Armata.

H77B – Armore recovery vehicle based on H7A1.

Combat History:

H7A1 Grey Wolf first saw combat with Ukrainian forces only two weeks after first units were recieved against pro Russian forces. Ukraine was in state of war from 2014 after Russia takes Crimea and pro Russian forces engage in serveral cities and towns near Russia with intent of joining the Russia. War continue for years in more or less cold war fashion. In 2018 pro Russian forces attacked UKrainian army near Mari'nka. Large armored division counter attack and stop the attack. First two H7A1 were deployed on that battlefield with dozen other tanks as protection and support units. Two tanks manage to destroy thirty six enemy tanks, armored vehicles in less then twelve minutes of battle without been damaged. One tank recieved direct hit in mantlet but no damage except tiny scratch was left. During counter offensive by Ukrainian forces, same tank recieved several other hits, none that damage the tank. Two missiles guided missiles were fired, both jammed and destroyed by RWS system which work together with active defense system. Same tanks would later see more combat against T-72s, T-72s which had ERA block armor on itself, but that armor didn't save the T72s as all of them were destroyed by far superior H7A1. As more tanks were delivered they were placed in same unit. NovaTech help train Ukrainian crews how to use the tanks most effectively. Only most loyal and elite Ukrainian forces recieved this tanks.

There was small system that was add to all Grey Wolfs. GW was not fully connected with the command vias drones and satellites as most western armies are, these tanks were created to operate on thier own with limited support from command, in case someone try to hack or shut down the entire military network or tanks itself. And also if someone try to dezert the army and steal the tank, tank could return automaticly to the base by base commander. This was preventive technology added so that wrong hands cannot obtain the higly advanced H7A1. During the late 2018, Russian Spentaz try to steal the one of Ukrainian H7A1, although they succed in stealing it, killing two crewmembers that maintain the tank, they couldnt take it away since the tank was in lock mode - set by its crew and even if they suceed tank would simply return back to base by its commanding officer.

In 2019, Ukrainian forces realized that Russia is now effectivly helping pro Russian forces, several T-90MS and two T-14 Armata tanks were deployed in Donetsk. This was first and most challenging test for the Grey Wolf. In 23.4.2019 in dawn, Ukrainian forces engage pro Russian forces to finally throw them away From Donetsk, H7A1 leaded the assault and were first to engage enemy in combat facing several T-72s and two T-90MS. T-72s were destroyed immediatley and two T-90MS followed after them, lead H7A1 recieved four hits, but both LAHAT missiles were stopped by Gugnir defenses. In subrubs of Donetsk H7A1 was engaged by T-14 Armata. Russian tank fired first but miss, second was direct hit into the fowad part of turret, a sabot round used by Russian forces fired from almost 835 meters did small damage but armor hold on its own and tank was not damaged. Crew of the H7A1 fired its first and last shot, APHE round (Armor-piercing High Explosive) it hit the Armata in the ring section, penetrating and exploded inside of turret. thanks to the specia doors that protected the crew in its armored caccon, all three members of T-14 survived but with terrible burns as some of fire manage to pass through other compartments. Only one of the crewmembers survived and move away before stricken tank exploded.

This victory placed H7A1 on top of the top of all tanks. But of course this was one battle. And T-14 didnt suceed in getting closer.

US deployed serveral of its M2 Sentinels in Iraq and Afganistan for protection of its troops that were stationed there (at the time of 2019).

Operators:

Croatia: Croatian Armed Forces operates 20 H7A1 Grey Wolfs and 7 H77Bs. Croatia struggle for over a decade with replacement of its M84 fleet, while M84D was created as export and less expensive variant of M-95 Degman, only around twenty of M84 were actually upgraded to M84D level, however Kuwait did order 40 new M84Ds and all existing M84s to be upgraded to newest level. Croatia order twenty H7A1 Grey Wolfs and 7 H77B armor recovery vehicles thanks to offer from NT which allow country to pay tanks, crew training and support equipment as well ammunition licence (with help of EU).

Switzerland: Swiss Army operates 55 H7A1 Grey Wolfs and 12 H77B Armor recovery vehicles. Swiss Army replaced its old Leopard 2 fleet with 55 brand new Grey Wolfs as part of large modernization program.

Morocco: Royal Moroccan Army operates 120 ordered H7A1 Grey Wolfs (possible 150 more to be ordered as part of second batch), 8 from 25 H7A2 Grizzly and 35 H77B. Army already recieved around 222 American M1A1SA tanks and 150 VT-1A (chinese Type 96 tank) but it has still over 800 T-72s, M48, M60 and light SK-105 tanks that need to be replaced. With H7A1 entering service, oldest of M48 and M60s are been retired. Rest of vehicles were to be delivered during next six months.

Ukraine: Ukrainian Armed Forces currenlty operates 75 from 100 ordered H7A1 Grey Wolf tanks, all of this new tanks are going to elite tank batalions while slowly replacing the older tanks already existing in those units. Russia demand NT to stop deal NT and Ukraine, hoping that NT wont sale most advanced tank on world to Ukraine. Russia even threat with ban of all products from NT, however NT CEO respond with this: "Ukraine was indenpendent modern country which have rights to upgrade and buy new weaponary for its Armed Forces, nobody can forbid them to buy whatever they want. Russia do not have right to stop transactions between Ukraine and NT and as that we will continue to respect our deal with Ukraine and delivering as scheduled tanks and any other equipment they may order. About the ban, NovaTech is one of biggest coorporation on Earth, lack of income from Russia wont damage our massive income. We call Russian government to respect other countries instead of invading them. And weapons that we sale to Ukraine were only for their protection." Of course there was lots of negative reaction from Russian government, but in the end there was no any kind of ban at all. Most of remaining vehicles were scheduled to be delivered during next few months to possibly year and half because on increased orders from other countries.

Greece: Hellenic Army operates 80 from 120 H7A1 Grey Wolfs, this batch would partiary or f ully replace the M60s in the fleet, possible second batch of 70 tanks could be expected, there is also 12 from 24 H77B in service. All remaining vehicles were to be delivered in next two years.

Germany: German Armed Forces impressed by H7A1s capabilities ordered 120 Grey Wolfs for the first batch, this German variant was known as H7A1A1 or simply Leopard III, 10 of them were already in service with remaining 100 will be delivered in next year or so, although thanks to fact that Kraus-Maffei also building this tanks now, remaining tanks may be delivered in much faster. Germany plan to have around 200-220 Leopard 2A6/7 tanks and 150-200 Leopard IIIs, additionally 10 from 26 H77bs are in service.

United States: United States Army operates 220 from 500 M2 Sentinels (H7A2A1 variant), and 12 from 50 H77Bs. US Army was impressed by advanced tactical capabilities of this new tank, after a full year of testing where Grey Wolf-Grizzly beat M1A2-A3 opposition in every test Army decide to purchase 500 of this tanks under M2 Sentinel designation(name), which would replace M1s and M1A1s fully from service, and would replace some of M1A2s from active service. It was first MBT that was not designed for American Military by Government sponsored military manufactors from US, it also was the first not to carry name of military officer. After entering service US command was impressed on versatility and great offensive and defensive capabilities this tank shows. It was to replace all of M1A1s and part of M1A2s in next 15 years. All remaining tanks were to be delivered in next five years possibly earlier as NovaTech factory in US fully commit to built equipment for American Army while the one in Germany will continue to deliver tanks and other equipment to other nations. This due large amount of tanks that was ordered and possibility of new batches. This factory also scraps all older tanks and armored vehicles.

Description

Big thanks to schwarzweiler for creating this tank for me, it is first variant of few that follows, hope you guys like it, i like it. So some parts in descrpition are missing, il add it today or tomorrw, i rushed things a little, although i love tanks and i know lots about them, i dont know everything, so i apologize if i used wrong terminology or if i make some mistakes.

Place of Origin: US(NovaTech), Germany

Service history:

In service: 2017 - present

Production history:

Designer: NovaTECH, Krauss-Maffei
Designed: 2012
Manufacturer: NovaTECH
, Krauss-Maffei
Unit cost: H7A1 "Grey Wolf" US$ 6.7 million
                H7A2 "Grizzly" US$ 7.2 milion
Produced: 2017 - present
Number built: 430x H7A1, 75x H7A2, 86x H7A1A1 (as Leopard III for German Army), 100x H7A1A2 (as M2A1 Sentinel) for United States

Specification:

Weight: H7A1: 58.2 tonns (62.6 short tons)
             H7A2: 62.8 tonns (71.1 short tons)
             H7A1A1: 58.2 tonns (62.6 short tons)
             H7A2A1: 60.4 tonns (65.1 short tons)

Length: (all variants) 9.90 meters
Width: (all variants except H7A2) 3.85 meters, H7A2 3.92 meters
Heigth: (all variants), 3.02 meters (not counting AA gun
Crew: 3 (can operate with two)

Armor: Second generation of Adaptive(modular) Crystaline-Ceramic-Ablative (CCA) armor

Main armament: 1x 125mm High velocity-Electrothermal Smoothbore cannon
Secondary armament: 1x 7.62mm machine gun, 12.5mm high velocity AA gun, or 25mm high impact AA gun

Engine: NovaTech MBT10 Terra Hybrid disel-electric-hydrogen engine, 1,850 hp, 1,750, Kw 2950 rpm
Power weight: 28.4 PS/t (21.5 Kw/t)

Transsmision: HML 387L

Suspension: Advanced Torsion bar suspension
Fuel capacity: 750 litres

Operational range: 1250 km (internal fuel), outer fuel tank allows up to 1970 km)
Speed: 85 km per hour (on road), 75 km field speed, 91km with engine booster

Development:

NovaTech was only ten years old at the time when first designs for military vehicles were even created. As NovaTech establish itself quickly on market, growing in massive coorporation and having several large devlopment and reaserch centres, it slowly starts to develop military equipment. After unsuccessful High mobility protector vehicle called Raccon (which didnt see any deployment with military, however it did see some buyers, civilian and military security firms. Creation of new armored vehicle started. From beginning NT wanted a new generation of MBT. At the time advanced generation three and early models of so called forth generation slowly enter the service with first T-14 Armata (which was by many believed to be forth generation tank instead advanced third). There was very few of the new tanks developed and most of existing and those that will enter service were simply upgrades of older tanks. M1 Abrams (M1A3 latest), Leopard 2A7, T-90MS were three tanks that were upgrades of older models, Challenger II was not really a new tank, but was among most armored and protected ones together with South Korean K2 Black Panther Turkish Atalay, Leclerc and Ariete followed and finally not to forgot other tanks like Japanese Type 10, Chinese Type 99 and MBT-3000. All those tanks were capable ones, but as said before most of them were upgrades of earlier Gen III tanks or based on them, a few were new.

NovaTech military technologies section know that although tank is behemoth on battlefield, it slowly losing ground to faster but less capable and armored vehicles as well tanks show to completley suck against air.

Knowing all facts NT start bold project on new tank, one which would really be called the strongest and best tank in the world, one that will have components from several tanks but it will be brand new one, tank which would first be called the Gen V MBT. The project was offically called H7, no other designation were given during early stage. Several prototypes were built all under H7 name, and first chosen protoype, pre production unit was finally called H7A1 Grey Wolf

Less then five years later, newly designed tank which was now called H7A1 Grey Wolf would be presented.

Design:

1. Protection:

Because of fact that NovaTech designed Grey Wolf after Leopard 2A6-7 it have many similarities, but those were mostly external and there is where all similarities actually ends. Its turret features similar shape as that of Leopard 2a7, especially the slopes which were almost the same as those on Leopard. However there was massive difference between two tanks in its armor. Leo2 uses spaced multilayer design its armor was combination of steel plates of different hardness, elastic materials and other non metallic materials and were in same similar if not the same as those on British and American tank which used advanced Chobham armor. Grey Wolfs armor was far stronger and resilient then Chobham. It was not revealed how exactly placed (classefied) was, but it is known that it is revolutionary new armor created by NT after years of work on creation of brand new armor. Armor was adaptive Crystalline-Ceramic-Ablative armor also known as CCA. Crystalline part was believed to be mixture of diamond and other hard crystals mixed also with ceramic parts plus on the top of this was added brand new and recently developed armor called Ablative. Ablative was created by mixture of several different metals as well the Ablatium that was found in North Africa, although this armor was rare, scientists and engineers of NT manage to replicate it, while not 100% strong as original it was still around 70-80% strong. Together with Crystalline-Ceramic this mixture of two completely different armors makes the outer shell of the tank. It was also known that Crystalline-Ceramic armor was located inside of Ablative armor which dressed over it, not fully understand how was this done as process was highly classified. And even if someone tries to tear it apart it would not be able to replicate it without NT.
This highly advanced armor is very resistant and most of current ammunition types could not penetrate armor of Grey Wolf from 700 meters and above that. If enemy fired on Grey Wolf from closer range then 700 m, there is a good chance that armor could be penetrated, especially on engine section, however only high velocity sabot rounds could do that and advanced anti-tank and other type of heavy missiles.

Even if enemy came closer than 700 meters, it can only disable the tank as crew inside was protected with additional layer of internal armor, and if unarmed turret variant was chosen, all three crew members are located in forward armored compartment (same arrangement as that on Russian T-14 Armata).

Grey Wolf’s armor is created to match every known anti-tank round and has high capability to survive even low yield laser-energy based weapons thanks to the Ablative armor. This tank is not invincible, although its armor is the strongest one ever built by humans, it can be penetrated by High Velocity Armor Piercing Sabot rounds (or HVAPSR for short) or any other Sabot-titanium penetrators from closer range. HVAPSR have terrific penetration power (but less explosive power), it can penetrate one solid meter of Chobham armor, meaning that one shot usually means kill. However this round is not common as it is still in development with NovaTech and Rheinmetall. However other heavy Sabot rounds could damage and even knock out Grey Wolf from close range, if the round hits the weak spot, however unlike other tanks armor was differently placed on Grey Wolf.

Frontal armor and frontal turret armor is usually the strongest part on the every tank, however this was not case with Grey Wolf, its frontal hull armor as well frontal mantle armor of turret is still its strongest part however other sides were improved as well. Turret armor of Grey Wolf have around 175mm on frontal part, 185mm mantle, sides and aft section (or simply back of the turret) also have 175mm plus additional protection from the ammunition compartment which is located on back and adding additional protection. There is 140mm thick internal door between ammo storage and crew compartment that protect crew in case of destruction of ammo rack (however all ammunition were encased in so called wet coating which prevents them to explode if received direct hit). Roof of the turret was always been the weakest part of the turret, usually enemy planes or attack helicopters cold easily destroy tank by hitting it on the top. Grey Wolf has 180mm thickness on roof section which allows it good defense against air attacks (combined with its powerful active defenses).

Overall thickness of Grey Wolf turret was far better than on any existing tank thanks to the new CCA armor. For example and fully upgraded Challenger 2 tank (CLEP upgrade) have 212mm of frontal turret armor thickness, more than Grey Wolf but the Chobham armor was heavier then CCA armor.

Hull armor was also much better than that on many current tanks. Frontal armor was the strongest; however side armor were almost of equal thickness as the frontal one. Aft armor is weaker than that on other sides, but protected with complex internal engine placing that allows more protection for engine itself, taking that engine it is built as armored cocoon it adds extra protection. Its flour armor is strong as the frontal one, and was capable to survive even an IDE detonation direct beneath the tank (although larger IDE’s could heavily damage or destroy the tank).

Secondary protection:

Although Grey Wolf has superior armor then any other tank, additional safety measures and protections were added to increase survivability of the crew. Evacuation hatch was placed on the flour behind driver that could easily be accessed by any crew members. The hatch is armored and have two options to be open, by the push of the small button near it it move from its socket and slide to the left or if this is jammed or no power in the tank it can open manually by small lever.

All possible sources that could cause fire were placed away from the crew. Ammunition and hydraulics were not placed in same compartment with the crew. Ammo is placed into the basket on the aft side of the turret as well beneath the turret closer to the engine compartment (secondary rack). In case of ammo detonation, 140mm thick armored doors will protect crew from explosion blast and will direct it away from the crew.

Grey Wolf crew compartment is fully protected against Nuclear, biological and chemical (NBC) threats. Grey Wolf had also the Drager NBC over pressurization system which was also installed on Leopard series. It was one of few things that GW inherit from Leopard.

There is fourteen 76 or 86mm (Depends on choice) Argoon smoke mortars on GW. Ten were located on aft – side of the turret (five on each side). Four were located on upper frontal part of the turret in front of armored commander’s hatch (two on each side facing up). While the four on the upper part of turret must be reloading manually, those ten have automatic mini reloaded that have two additional smoke chargers for each mortar. There are several different firing possibilities for smoke mortars.

Like every current tank Grey Wolf also have anti-fire protection system on board, usually the Halon extinguisher bottles that were installed in crew compartment.

Armor upgrades:

There is several different armor upgrades for Grey Wolf, although its standard armor is more than enough to protect it from most of the current anti-tank weaponry.

    -          Additional armor skirts could be placed on the sides of the tank increasing the protection level for forty percent.

    -          Additional composite Ablative layer for the aft – engine section that increase engine protection.

    -          Additional turret armor which increase thickness of all side on 210mm.

    -          Additional frontal glacial armor which adds additional 250mm thickness.

    -          Highly resilient tracks which replace the standard Diehl Mk VI tracks (developed specially for GW).

    -          Slat armor against RPG’s and other portable anti-tank weapons although its primary armor is more than withstand multiple RPG hits and receiving little damage from it.

    -

CCA armor installed on Grey Wolf can survive hits from most of the current ammunition types, those that would damage or destroy a standard tank from range of 1km would only scratch the armor of Grey Wolf, and however on closer range any tank with strong penetration rounds can either heavily damage or destroy the GW. Kinetic energy is stronger as the target is closer, and although CCA is powerful it is not powerful enough to survive heavy Sabot round from let say 300-500 meters. Still with additional armor plantings it can survive direct hit.

Armaments:

Primary

Primary armament of H7A1 Grey Wolf is 125mm High velocity-Electrothermal Smoothbore cannon, one of several different cannons developed by NovaTech and Rheinmetall.

And GW turret was capable to hold cannons from 105 to 155mm calibers.

High Velocity-Electrothermal Smoothbore cannon or simply called HVES is advance cannon that were developed as a new generation of tank cannons. This has effective range up to 4.5km although it can fire high velocity rounds to the 5.5km range. This makes GW tank with longest firing range on world.

Of the far the target is the less is chance that it will be hit but thanks to special ammunition developed for this new cannon it assures that target will be hit as long as its in 4.5km range.

There is several different types of ammunition that this tank can carry and it usually carries only forty rounds. Twenty are stored in ammo rack behind the main crew compartment. Rest was stored beneath the compartment which is connected with upper compartment and advanced autoloader can pick rounds from both. Loader have dual basket which can carry two                                                      shells this allows firing of both of them in less than ten seconds. Procedure was simply: Loader bring both rounds, one rounds enter the canon, aim and fire, moments later second round already entering the cannon barrel and was ready for firing. Autoloader automatically move to the ammo rack for new two shells. Time between the next firing is only ten seconds although seven can be if autoloader is used on faster speed.

Shells however are slightly different from standard ones. They were created from one part with aft section breaks away after firing and exiting the barrel, usually this second part lands few meters in front of the tank but it have interesting side effect, it conceals the firing, so the enemy can’t see the flash-smoke that is result of firing.

As said before autoloader is new generation fully automatized but also very dangerous for inexperienced crew, where crewmembers can lost hand if its in way of the autoloader. The new canon also has less muzzle shock, less dangerous for crew inside.

There is several ammunition types Grey Wolf can fire, although usually carry two.

HEAT – High –Explosive anti-tank warheads – standard anti-tank round that most of the tanks on the world use.

HEAPAT – High explosive – armor piercing anti-tank warhead – specialized warhead that was composed from two parts, penetrations (armor piercing) and highly explosive part. This warhead slams on enemy armor, penetrate it and then explode from inside.

APDS – Armor piercing Sabot round – Warhead with heavy Sabot tip that can penetrate highest armors, even the GW armor can be penetrated if hit from below 700 meters.

HVAPSR – High Velocity Armor Piercing Sabot round – One of new designed warheads, specialize in penetration of heavy targets. This round is the only round that can destroy or disable GW from 1km range. Very deadly round that can destroy most of tanks in the world with one shot from 3.5 to 4km range.

SAPTR – Supersonic Armor piercing Titanium Round – the most deadliest round of all because it is the modular warhead capable to be used as simple armor piercing warhead, AP with HE capabilities and AP with HN (high napalm) rounds. This warhead can hit and destroy target on 4.5km range although it hit and destroy target on 5.1km range (testing)

There is several other different warheads that could enter service. GW usually carry Heat, HEAPT and APDS rounds, while HVAPSR as well SAPTR are still not enter service.

There is additional rounds that were more elemental and chemical in nature. NovaTech believes that it could change the battlefield, instead of destroying enemy, disable it.

Like:

HEM – High Electromagnetic round – Specialized round to disable all electronic on enemy tank, thus disabling it without destroying it.

HCR – High Corrosion round – Very dangerous round specialized in destroying enemy tank armor, it is highly dangerous if coming to contact with skin. In case of been hit or sprayed by this corrosion, enemy would be melted in mere seconds; usually corrosion eats the skin until nothing remains.

Thermal rounds – Different thermal rounds – multipurpose rounds

All of these upper rounds were highly experimental, and there is no evidence that they would enter service any time soon.

Secondary armaments

Grey Wolf have one 7.62mm co-axial machine gun located on right side of the turret, commander use it for close range defense against infantry. This machine gun is German in origin like those on Leopard 2A6 it belong newly designed MG4 machine gun, designed especially for Grey Wolf and Leopard AA6/7 tanks. Standard amount of ammunition for this machine gun is about 2500 rounds, although it can be increased to 3200.

There is also additional heavier machine gun 12.5mm on the roof of the turret, it is automatized and also controlled by commander. There are different variants that can be added from standard 12.5mm machine guns to heavier 25mm AA auto cannons; however most common variant is NT HAG 12.5 Rapid Vulcano remote weapon station. This weapon station can be operated by both commander and gunner, although driver also have the weapon control pad (combat variant of tablet) that can use to control the RWS while commander operated co-axial machine gun and gunner use the main cannon. There is a small arsenal of different RWS and other AA machine guns that could be added, that depends on buyer. Standard amount of ammunitions Is around 400-600.

Fire control

Fire control was completely created and designed by NovaTech. There is no much information about it with exception that has all standard and some which were greatly improved like high zoom magnification, stabilization for primary and secondary sights. As with all modern tank, GW is capable of firing on the move.

Its firing computer is state of art, designed in that way to help gunner as much as possible. All that gunner need to do Is rotating the turret in direction he needs, target enemy and fire, press reload and fire again. The computer would calculate distance to target, wind changes, elevation so that shot goes directly into enemy tank or vehicle. Although fire control system is highly advanced, for most important jobs in tank there is also manual possibility. These options allow gunner to use both firing computer or if he is experienced to do it manually (adjusting barrel and all other pre-firing works).

Heavy automatization help crew a lot especially the gunner. He has a LED display that gives him control of autoloader, barrel and firing control. He can chose the shell that was needed load it into autoloader basket which will automatically move the first shell into the barrel (if barrel is empty) and preparing the second one to be loaded immediately after last was fired. Because of computer system and all chips are different then standard ones chances that tank will be shut by electromagnetic pulse or hacking were none existing and this is because all electronical - chip components were created from crystal, which protects inner core of the crystal chip from EMP or any other things that could shut down and fry the electrical parts.
However gunner can as told before do all work manually, loading shell, adjusting the barrel to proper firing position and fire, although then loading capabilities were different as manually need slightly longer to load the shells. Turret rotation system is electrical as on all modern tanks. Its rotation speed I the same as that on Leopard 2A6, so there was no much change in that as NT engineers believed that Leo2A6 rotation was good enough. Of course there is also manual rotation system.

Unlike many tanks were commander seeks targets to fire, Grey Wolf have special thermal sensors – connected on combat cameras which can seek enemy closest enemy targets on its own (this option can be turn off or on by commander). GW have multiple of sensors located on all sides of the tank even on tanks undercarriage, there is also multiple of cameras which allow view from all side of tank. Undercarriage senors as those on the front were very important, as they can detect possible mine field and thus save the tank from damage or destruction. Undercarriage is heavly armored and can survive anti-tank mine but still additional sensors help preventing any damage.

ATL – or Automatic Target locator is main in charge when searching for enemy tanks and other vehicles. It uses data from sensors and cameras, calculating the closest enemy (or closest threat) and signaling gunner its location. ATL also works with thermal sensors which can detect heat of enemy tank (engine and heat of crew, although many armors on modern tanks cannot be penetrated but still there was a ways to locate enemy tank especially if its engines are turn on. It can also detect enemy tank muzzle flash, warning from where it was fired allowing the crew to concentrate on the highest priority quickly and deadly.

Tank optics and sensors are designed to operate in any theatre from tropical, desert or artic. Sandstroms and Rain-Ice storm cannot affect the systems on board the GW.

There is no need to add that GW have best of best sensors, cameras, and can operate as said above in all conditions including day-night.

Tertiary armament

While GW does not fire anti-tank missiles from main cannon, it can have additional weapons installed on turret sides like eight anti-tank or anti-air missile launchers. These missile launchers were usually dual or quad, allowing firing of two or four missiles from each launcher, in total two or four on each side of the turret. Each launcher carrier’s only one missile, which means it need reload by the supply crews. However tank commander after firing all missiles can simply discard the launchers which will be picked by the supporting crew, reloaded and placed on tank again.

Missiles can be used (as told before) against armored vehicles, but also AA variants against low flying aircrafts like helicopters, range of this missiles were usually about 10km more than enough for tank crew to prepare to counter enemy air units. Although jets can avoid missiles.

This practically gives Grey Wolf good AA capabilities although not all tanks have these systems.

Active and passive defense systems (countermeasures)

Grey Wolf has superior armor and mobility as well highly advanced computer systems, but this is not the only thing gives it edge in the combat. It is also its active and passive defenses.

Active

Primary active defense system or countermeasure of Grey Wolf is the highly advanced Gungnir active defense system. This system is based on current modern systems used by late Gen III and early Gen IV MBT’s but highly improved.

It use same system as current ADS systems, against anti-tank guided missiles (ATGM), light anti-tank weapons, Top attack missiles (missiles that attack from above, as armored vehicles usually have lightest armor on top), heat seeking missiles that lock on engine exhaust and follow until hit the target.

However this was only one part of Gugnir’s capabilities. Gugnir is also connected with four lock-on sensors, sensors created to detect when enemy tank or armored vehicle lock on tank, computer can quickly calculate from where it target lock coming, it can turn the turret on its own and fire on enemy without crew even need to do anything. Of course this can be turn off, but in tricky situations where tank is exposed and visibility is low (although it can see through bad visibility) every second counts, especially if there is more than one target, instead choosing the best target, gunner can chose combat computer to chose for him and find him the target and if enemy lock on the tank, computer will rotate the turret (now option in programming can allow gunner to be the one firing the gun, not the computer itself all depends on which option customer chose).

This is very useful option, because while well trained human will do calmly and steady in combat, sometimes the combat may turn in unpredictable way. Allowing combat computer to take over rotation and firing the first shot or just turning the turret in enemy location and let gunner fire is great help.

(no GW do not have artificial intelligence computer, every action is based on programming and sensor scans).

Many modern tanks can track muzzle flashes and heat signatures from exhaust (engines), however due CCA armor which not only protect tank, it can also hide tank from infrared and other thermo cameras and sensor.

An well camouflaged Grey Wolf in winter condition (in forest for example) cannot be detected, thanks to its armor and other protections, it do not show any thermal signature at all, crew have enough sights and telescopes that they do not even need to go outside (or do commander need to pik from its hatch). Muzzle flash protection as well specially developed shells can completely hide the flash thus preventing enemy to locate you, although if GW destroy one enemy tank, the one near it can calculate or try calculating possible location from where it was fired based on hit on friendly tank.

Additional sensors were mounted on GW, and those were close range sensors, which can scan area up to 50m (can increase to 100m if area is clear). Commander can watch on his monitor and if he receives approach warning he can see what is actually coming. Combat computer do not open fire on approaching targets, because it could simply be friendlies, but they are not if commander recognize enemy soldiers, he can order turret rotation and fire on enemy soldiers.

There is several different ADS that can be installed however Gugnir is by far most superior.

With Gugnir there is also Jamming capabilities, GW can use jammer that can send false information to enemy drone hovering above, missiles can receive wrong directions (additional anti-heated-guided missile defenses).

Passive

Grey Wolf have already advanced defenses like highly advanced armor and equally advanced active defense systems, however it also have at least one passive defense system.

CQDK – Close Quarter Defense Kit, this is additional layer of high explosive armor that can be added to the sides of the tank, on engine block and even roof of the turret, increasing already high defense capabilities.

If tank will be used in urban area, changes can be done from standard CCA side skirts to ECCA skirts, or enhanced CCA armor block which receive additional explosive layer together with additional sensor package which then jam and destroy incoming missiles, or if hits it force all explosion in opposite direction of the tank.

Propulsion

Grey Wolf has several engine options although standard one is NovaTech MBT10 Terra Hybrid disel-electric-hydrogen engine, 1,850 hp, 1,750, Kw 2950 rpm. This engine have several in built options which allows it to be overcharged – clocked for higher speed. As it name says it is a hybrid which can use diesel fuel, electric power (it have two electric batteries which have enough strength to power tank for eight to ten hours before they need recharge) and hydrogen.

What this means? It means that tank can use both diesel and hydrogen fuel for power. Engine block is large and armored, every part of its was specifically designed for dual purpose. And new hydrogen fuel was proved to be cheaper and more environment friendly. But even if tank use diesel, thanks to the advanced engine it spends much less than standard tank engines which means that with same amount of fuel that Leopard 2 needs, it can cross larger distances. Leopard 2 have capacity of 1,200 liters and with that it can cross 550km. Grey Wolf have the option for same capacity, however standard variant have capacity for 750 liters and can cross around 1250km, around 1800km with Leo 2 capacity and 1970km with external fuel tank. Now yes it can carry less fuel but due advance engine design, it spends much less fuel per km which greatly increases its range of operation.

Engine itself as said can come in different variations, and all have many modular parts that allow maintenance crews to service tanks much faster especially engine sections.

Top speed on the asphalt road is 85 km/h, additional engine booster can increase it to 91 km/h however although this option exist it is not recommended. 75 km/h is speed across fields and other non asphalt roads. Its advanced suspension allows it fast turns great mobility and to carry heavy weight without reducing its speed.

Unlike many heavily armored western tanks which although are fast and maneuverable do not have the same jumping capabilities seen in Russian tanks, GW is more than jumping as T-90. However of those kinds of maneuvers it is recommended that all additional armor is removed thus removing additional weight of the tank allowing it to perform such maneuvers which would prevent any damage on undercarriage and torsion system.

Interior

Interior was much better organized then on most modern tanks. Driver is usually located in front in middle. He is well protected and thanks to several cameras he is not needed to pik from his hatch to see where he is going, there is also several options which allows him better views and more time to think in forward. He control tank by right arm via a small joystick which allows him to go right – left, forward – back and with small button on joystick itself to rotate the body of tank in direction he wants.

Commander is on right, having his own monitor (two actually), one for tracking enemy movement and sensors and second for receiving orders from command or contacting other tanks (if silent moving is on).

Gunner is on left also having a monitor that allow him to chose right shell, to see how much is left also and what is status of gun. There is second monitor for sensors, proximity sensors and Gugnir control.

VARIANTS:

H7 – prototype

H7A1 Grey Wolf – Standard variant

H7A2 Grizzly – heavily upgraded variant more oriented for urban combat then open fields, additional heavy CCA armor on side and turret, slightly different armaments especially the secondary weapons. It also has option for slightly changed turret

H7A1A1 “Leopard III” – After success of the Grey Wolf, German government was interested to purchase Grey Wolf as replacement for older Leopard 2s in service and addition of new tanks. Joint work between NovaTech and Kraus-Maffei created new variant developed for Germany. This variant was similar to H7A1 Grey Wolf, with exception on slightly different main and secondary armaments as well some smaller changes to the turret.

H7A2A1 “M2 Sentinel” – American variant of Grey Wolf-Grizzley variant however this variant lacks the additional armor on the turret and side armor is added only when needed. Slightly different turret. This variant is capable of both urban and open terrain. US military was impressed with capabilities of H7A1-A2 and after extensive tests against its own M1A2 and A3 (both type lose terribly, especially on long range combat), US decided that it will purchase around five hundred of this tanks for first batch, to replace large number of old M1s and M1A1s, while M1A2 and M1A3 would remain in service for next fifteen years.

This was also the first non American tank in modern times that was purchased by US and that was not of American origin (no matter that most of the tank was designed and assembled in US), as Nova Tech was not funded by government like other American military companies.

It was also first tank that was not named after American officer.

Other variants:

H7A1Au Grey Wolf – This is the option for buyers. Instead of classical interior, interior is changed, driver was moved on left, commander on right and gunner behind them in heavily armored cacoon, while turret was unmanned, similar to T-14 Armata.

H77B – Armore recovery vehicle based on H7A1.

Combat History:

H7A1 Grey Wolf first saw combat with Ukrainian forces only two weeks after first units were recieved against pro Russian forces. Ukraine was in state of war from 2014 after Russia takes Crimea and pro Russian forces engage in serveral cities and towns near Russia with intent of joining the Russia. War continue for years in more or less cold war fashion. In 2018 pro Russian forces attacked UKrainian army near Mari'nka. Large armored division counter attack and stop the attack. First two H7A1 were deployed on that battlefield with dozen other tanks as protection and support units. Two tanks manage to destroy thirty six enemy tanks, armored vehicles in less then twelve minutes of battle without been damaged. One tank recieved direct hit in mantlet but no damage except tiny scratch was left. During counter offensive by Ukrainian forces, same tank recieved several other hits, none that damage the tank. Two missiles guided missiles were fired, both jammed and destroyed by RWS system which work together with active defense system. Same tanks would later see more combat against T-72s, T-72s which had ERA block armor on itself, but that armor didn't save the T72s as all of them were destroyed by far superior H7A1. As more tanks were delivered they were placed in same unit. NovaTech help train Ukrainian crews how to use the tanks most effectively. Only most loyal and elite Ukrainian forces recieved this tanks.

There was small system that was add to all Grey Wolfs. GW was not fully connected with the command vias drones and satellites as most western armies are, these tanks were created to operate on thier own with limited support from command, in case someone try to hack or shut down the entire military network or tanks itself. And also if someone try to dezert the army and steal the tank, tank could return automaticly to the base by base commander. This was preventive technology added so that wrong hands cannot obtain the higly advanced H7A1. During the late 2018, Russian Spentaz try to steal the one of Ukrainian H7A1, although they succed in stealing it, killing two crewmembers that maintain the tank, they couldnt take it away since the tank was in lock mode - set by its crew and even if they suceed tank would simply return back to base by its commanding officer.

In 2019, Ukrainian forces realized that Russia is now effectivly helping pro Russian forces, several T-90MS and two T-14 Armata tanks were deployed in Donetsk. This was first and most challenging test for the Grey Wolf. In 23.4.2019 in dawn, Ukrainian forces engage pro Russian forces to finally throw them away From Donetsk, H7A1 leaded the assault and were first to engage enemy in combat facing several T-72s and two T-90MS. T-72s were destroyed immediatley and two T-90MS followed after them, lead H7A1 recieved four hits, but both LAHAT missiles were stopped by Gugnir defenses. In subrubs of Donetsk H7A1 was engaged by T-14 Armata. Russian tank fired first but miss, second was direct hit into the fowad part of turret, a sabot round used by Russian forces fired from almost 835 meters did small damage but armor hold on its own and tank was not damaged. Crew of the H7A1 fired its first and last shot, APHE round (Armor-piercing High Explosive) it hit the Armata in the ring section, penetrating and exploded inside of turret. thanks to the specia doors that protected the crew in its armored caccon, all three members of T-14 survived but with terrible burns as some of fire manage to pass through other compartments. Only one of the crewmembers survived and move away before stricken tank exploded.

This victory placed H7A1 on top of the top of all tanks. But of course this was one battle. And T-14 didnt suceed in getting closer.

US deployed serveral of its M2 Sentinels in Iraq and Afganistan for protection of its troops that were stationed there (at the time of 2019).

Operators:

Croatia: Croatian Armed Forces operates 20 H7A1 Grey Wolfs and 7 H77Bs. Croatia struggle for over a decade with replacement of its M84 fleet, while M84D was created as export and less expensive variant of M-95 Degman, only around twenty of M84 were actually upgraded to M84D level, however Kuwait did order 40 new M84Ds and all existing M84s to be upgraded to newest level. Croatia order twenty H7A1 Grey Wolfs and 7 H77B armor recovery vehicles thanks to offer from NT which allow country to pay tanks, crew training and support equipment as well ammunition licence (with help of EU).

Switzerland: Swiss Army operates 55 H7A1 Grey Wolfs and 12 H77B Armor recovery vehicles. Swiss Army replaced its old Leopard 2 fleet with 55 brand new Grey Wolfs as part of large modernization program.

Morocco: Royal Moroccan Army operates 120 ordered H7A1 Grey Wolfs (possible 150 more to be ordered as part of second batch), 8 from 25 H7A2 Grizzly and 35 H77B. Army already recieved around 222 American M1A1SA tanks and 150 VT-1A (chinese Type 96 tank) but it has still over 800 T-72s, M48, M60 and light SK-105 tanks that need to be replaced. With H7A1 entering service, oldest of M48 and M60s are been retired. Rest of vehicles were to be delivered during next six months.

Ukraine: Ukrainian Armed Forces currenlty operates 75 from 100 ordered H7A1 Grey Wolf tanks, all of this new tanks are going to elite tank batalions while slowly replacing the older tanks already existing in those units. Russia demand NT to stop deal NT and Ukraine, hoping that NT wont sale most advanced tank on world to Ukraine. Russia even threat with ban of all products from NT, however NT CEO respond with this: "Ukraine was indenpendent modern country which have rights to upgrade and buy new weaponary for its Armed Forces, nobody can forbid them to buy whatever they want. Russia do not have right to stop transactions between Ukraine and NT and as that we will continue to respect our deal with Ukraine and delivering as scheduled tanks and any other equipment they may order. About the ban, NovaTech is one of biggest coorporation on Earth, lack of income from Russia wont damage our massive income. We call Russian government to respect other countries instead of invading them. And weapons that we sale to Ukraine were only for their protection." Of course there was lots of negative reaction from Russian government, but in the end there was no any kind of ban at all. Most of remaining vehicles were scheduled to be delivered during next few months to possibly year and half because on increased orders from other countries.

Greece: Hellenic Army operates 80 from 120 H7A1 Grey Wolfs, this batch would partiary or f ully replace the M60s in the fleet, possible second batch of 70 tanks could be expected, there is also 12 from 24 H77B in service. All remaining vehicles were to be delivered in next two years.

Germany: German Armed Forces impressed by H7A1s capabilities ordered 120 Grey Wolfs for the first batch, this German variant was known as H7A1A1 or simply Leopard III, 10 of them were already in service with remaining 100 will be delivered in next year or so, although thanks to fact that Kraus-Maffei also building this tanks now, remaining tanks may be delivered in much faster. Germany plan to have around 200-220 Leopard 2A6/7 tanks and 150-200 Leopard IIIs, additionally 10 from 26 H77bs are in service.

United States: United States Army operates 220 from 500 M2 Sentinels (H7A2A1 variant), and 12 from 50 H77Bs. US Army was impressed by advanced tactical capabilities of this new tank, after a full year of testing where Grey Wolf-Grizzly beat M1A2-A3 opposition in every test Army decide to purchase 500 of this tanks under M2 Sentinel designation(name), which would replace M1s and M1A1s fully from service, and would replace some of M1A2s from active service. It was first MBT that was not designed for American Military by Government sponsored military manufactors from US, it also was the first not to carry name of military officer. After entering service US command was impressed on versatility and great offensive and defensive capabilities this tank shows. It was to replace all of M1A1s and part of M1A2s in next 15 years. All remaining tanks were to be delivered in next five years possibly earlier as NovaTech factory in US fully commit to built equipment for American Army while the one in Germany will continue to deliver tanks and other equipment to other nations. This due large amount of tanks that was ordered and possibility of new batches. This factory also scraps all older tanks and armored vehicles.