Main Battle Tank
VT4 (MBT-3000)
The VT4, shown at Zhuhai in 2012 as the MBT-3000, is a Chinese export main battle tank made by NORINCO, derived from the Type 99. It is not used by the PLA Ground Force, and its customers include Thailand, Nigeria and Pakistan.
China|NORINCOWhat Is the VT4 (MBT-3000)? Overview, History and Development
NORINCO built the VT4 in a Western-style layout and showed it at Zhuhai in 2012 as the MBT-3000. It carries a 125 mm smoothbore gun with an autoloader, a 12.7 mm roof remote weapon station, Chinese-made fire control, composite modular armour and reactive armour, with optional active protection. The V12 diesel gives 1,200 hp, though some sources say 1,300 hp. Speed is 70 km/h, range about 500 km, weight 52 t and the crew 3.
The price is commonly cited at around 4.9 million USD per tank, an estimate. Thailand received its first 28 in 2017, then 10 and 11 more, and NORINCO said in November 2023 that deliveries of 60 were complete. Thai VT4s were reportedly used in the 2025 border conflict with Cambodia. Nigeria received a first batch in 2020 and used it against Boko Haram. Pakistan’s Haider variant is reported to be inducted. Rivals include the K2 Black Panther and T-90MS.
VT4 (MBT-3000) Specifications: Weight, Armament, Armor and Mobility
VT4 (MBT-3000) Variants and Versions Compared
The MBT-3000 is the original name under which the tank was shown at Zhuhai in 2012.
The VT4 is the export version used by Thailand and Nigeria.
The VT4A1 is an updated version of the VT4.
Which Countries Use the VT4 (MBT-3000)? Operators and Users
Thailand
Nigeria
PakistanVT4 (MBT-3000) FAQ: Price, Range, Operators and Most Asked Questions
How much does the VT4 tank cost?
A NORINCO VT4 costs around 4.9 million USD per tank, according to a commonly cited estimate. The price varies with the contract and package.
Which countries use the VT4 tank?
The VT4 is used by Thailand, Nigeria and, reportedly, Pakistan. Thailand received 60, Nigeria received a first batch in 2020, and Pakistan’s Haider variant is reported to be inducted.
Does China use the VT4?
No, the VT4 is not used by the PLA Ground Force, which operates the Type 96 and Type 99. It is a pure export product made by NORINCO.
VT4 vs K2 Black Panther: which is better?
The VT4 is cheaper, at about 4.9 million USD, and weighs 52 t, while South Korea’s K2 Black Panther is a more expensive tank in a different tier. Neither has fought the other, so comparisons rest on specifications.
How heavy and fast is the VT4?
The NORINCO VT4 weighs 52 t and reaches 70 km/h, with a range of about 500 km. Its V12 diesel gives 1,200 hp, though some sources say 1,300 hp.
Was the VT4 used in combat?
Yes, Nigeria used the VT4 against Boko Haram after receiving a first batch in 2020. Thai VT4s were reportedly used in the 2025 border conflict with Cambodia.