The Merkava (Hebrew: מֶרְכָּבָה, [mɛʁkaˈva] ⓘ, "chariot") [5] is a series of main battle tanks used by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) which are the backbone of the IDF's Armored Corps.

Jan 21, 2024 · Israel’s homegrown Merkava family of main battle tanks (MBTs) arguably represents the best of its indigenous efforts. Since its introduction to service more than four …

Mar 28, 2025 · The Merkava tank, developed by Israel after the 1973 Yom Kippur War, represents Israeli innovation and resilience.

Jul 3, 2025 · Explore the Merkava tank’s evolution from Mk I to Mk V, learn about its Trophy active protection, crew-first design, armament, and battlefield performance.

Aug 3, 2025 · Design work on the Merkava Mk 3 Main Battle Tank (MBT) started in August 1983 shortly after the first production of Merkava Mk 2 was handed over. The tank was introduced in …

Jul 18, 2025 · Many analysts consider the Merkava (Hebrew for “Chariot”) to be the most capable and effective tank designed for desert warfare. The front-engine layout, unlike most tanks, …

Nearly nine years after establishing the Merkava and Armored Vehicles Directorate, Israel issued its first Merkava Mark I tank. Each new generation of the Merkava is more sophisticated and …

Feb 20, 2025 · The Merkava tank, with all its models and refinements, is still considered one of the most successful Israeli developments, giving the IDF many advantages on the battlefield.

Among the prominent features of the Merkava Mk. 3 were the new and unique suspension system, the high powered engine, the powerful main gun, and, especially, a new and unique …

The Merkava (Hebrew: מֶרְכָּבָה, [mɛʁkaˈva] ⓘ, "chariot") [5] is a series of main battle tanks used by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) which are the backbone of the IDF's Armored Corps.