Zoey's Blog: Sigma AU Spotlight: GHI Tanks

Sigma AU Spotlight: GHI Tanks

Naming Convention

In the GHI tank naming system, light tanks and tankettes have their nickname abbreviations placed first, followed by their designation. This designation comprises the size of the gun(s), chassis revision, and the number of guns if applicable. In contrast, main battle tanks (MBTs) and super-heavy tanks list their designations first, followed by their nicknames.

Tracked Vehicles

GWK Chassis

The GWK (German: Geschwindigkeitskeil, meaning "speed wedge") chassis is a state-of-the-art, two-man tankette known for its versatility and multiple turret configurations. It represents a significant enhancement over the Rheinmetall Wiesel AWC, especially concerning armament and survivability.

Engine and Performance:

Powered by a transverse-mounted, turbocharged 6-cylinder diesel engine, the GWK generates an impressive 610 horsepower and 1200 Nm of torque. This is a considerable leap from the Wiesel AWC, which boasts only one-fifth of the power and weighs merely one-fifteenth as much. The GWK, with a total weight of 29 tons, is equipped to handle various battlefield scenarios.

Armor and Survivability:

The GWK's armor is formidable, especially on its frontal aspect, providing over 400mm of effective armor against high-caliber shells. This level of protection is a marked improvement compared to the AWC, which can be compromised by even a single 20mm round from an older weapon like the PTRS-41.

Armament Options:

The GWK is highly adaptable, capable of being fitted with various weapon systems, including:

40mm Gun: Known as the GWK-40, this variant excels in anti-armor roles.

75mm Gun: The GWK-75 is designed for engaging fortified positions and enemy armor.

Advanced Weapon Systems: The GWK can also be armed with radar systems, anti-tank guided missiles (GWK PWF, or Panzerabwehrlenkflugkörper), or surface-to-air missiles (GWK BBR, or Boden-Boden-Rakete).

Initially intended to carry only a Browning M2 HMG or a 20mm autocannon, the GWK's design has evolved to accommodate more advanced weaponry, underscoring its operational success.

KKP-40 Chassis

The Kleiner Keilpanzer-40 (KKP-40), meaning "small wedge tank," is a family of 40-ton tankettes designed primarily for reconnaissance and anti-materiel missions. The vehicle’s distinctive wedge shape enhances its aerodynamic profile and performance.

Power and Speed:

Powered by a robust 700HP W-12 diesel engine, the KKP-40 can generate 1600 ft-lb of torque, allowing it to reach speeds of up to 35 mph. The tankette's 6-speed transmission supports swift movements across varied terrains.

Dimensions and Hull Design:

With a hull constructed of rolled homogeneous armor (RHA) between 40mm and 100mm thick, the KKP-40 is designed for agility and stealth. The vehicle’s compact dimensions—less than 2 meters in height and 6 meters in length—allow it to traverse tight environments, with the crew positioned on their backs for a lower profile.

Crew and Controls:

The vehicle features a dual joystick control system for the driver, reminiscent of modern automotive technologies, while the commander operates a multi-button interface to manage the vehicle’s computer and sensors. The turret is equipped with a 4-meter-long 40mm Bofors L/70 gun, which is remotely controlled by the commander and supported by advanced day/night/infrared thermal imaging capabilities.

Communication Systems:

The KKP-40 is outfitted with an array of communication technologies, including analog and digital signaling, AM/FM, UHF, wideband, and cellular networks. This comprehensive system allows for efficient coordination with other units.

Crew Access:

Crew members enter from the rear, sliding into their designated 'seats,' which allows for a streamlined entry and exit process.

KKP-40-2 Variants:

The KKP-40-2 (often referred to as KKP-42) maintains the same hull design but features a re-engineered turret for improved efficiency. Enhancements include:

Upgraded Communication: Capable of functioning as a cellular repeater, utilizing its gun barrel as an antenna.

Increased Range: Two 250L fuel tanks replace the two 150L tanks of the KKP-40, providing extended operational range while running the length of the vehicle to enhance ballistic protection.

Twin-Barreled KKP-40-2:

To address barrel overheating issues during sustained fire (>100 rounds), GHI proposed a twin-barreled variant of the KKP-40-2, designed for lower fire rates but enhanced thermal management. However, only one prototype was built, and the complexity of production outweighed the benefits.

KKP-75 and KKP-75-2 Models:

Similar to the KKP-40, the KKP-75 and KKP-75-2 models (often referred to as KKP-72) feature a modified KwK-42 75mm cannon capable of approximately 200mm of penetration. The KKP-75-2 includes the same upgrades as the KKP-42. These models are primarily utilized as infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) rather than for reconnaissance.

P-100 Chassis: P-105-30 "Gräuel," P-65-2 "Ungetüm," and P-40-4 "Bienenschwarm"

The P-100 chassis is a heavily armored tracked motor carriage, designed to accommodate various turret configurations. Weighing 160 tons without a turret, its V-shaped hull enhances mine resistance by directing blasts away from the crew and facilitates traversing water bodies.

Engine and Mobility:

Equipped with a powerful W-16 engine generating approximately 3000 HP and 5000 ft-lb of torque, the P-100 chassis supports robust performance and mobility across diverse terrains. Its armor thickness ranges from 90mm to 200mm, designed to deflect incoming rounds and enhance survivability.

Interior and Capacity:

The chassis allows for a crew layout accommodating a driver, commander, gunner, backup loader, and up to six passengers. The interior can be modified to include living quarters, a shower (half a meter square), a kitchenette, and a refrigerator, providing essential comforts during extended operations.

P-105-30 "Gräuel":

The Gräuel, or "abomination," is a super-heavy tank equipped with an improved version of Rheinmetall's 105mm howitzer and a 30mm autocannon in the turret. The autocannon was initially intended to be a .50 caliber machine gun, but a more effective Mk 108 autocannon was later installed to counter low-flying aircraft like the A-10 Warthog. The turret houses 32 rounds of main gun ammunition, while the autocannon is fed by 250-round belts, with additional ammo stored in the hull.

P-65-2 "Ungetüm":

Nicknamed Ungetüm, or "Monster," this variant shares the same chassis and turret as the Gräuel but is armed with two domestically produced 65mm cannons. The intended role of the Ungetüm remains unclear; however, it has been successfully employed for both anti-aircraft and anti-materiel missions. Its cannon can be loaded with a variety of ammunition types, including AP, APHE, HEAT, and APFSDS-T, depending on the operational requirements. A .50 caliber machine gun is mounted for anti-infantry defense, reinforcing its versatility.

P-40-4 "Bienenschwarm":

The Bienenschwarm, or "swarm of bees," utilizes the P-100 chassis with an anti-aircraft turret armed with four 40mm BOFORS L/70 guns. This configuration boasts an impressive cyclic rate exceeding 2,000 rounds per minute. While traditional anti-aircraft systems typically employ 20mm or 30mm rounds, the 40mm ammunition used in the Bienenschwarm offers enhanced lethality and payload versatility, making it a formidable option for air defense.