Merkava 3

The Merkava Mark 3 entered service with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in December 1989, with production continuing until 2003. Developed by the Merkava and Armored Combat Vehicles Division of the Israeli Ministry of Defense, the vehicle was designed to improve upon the drivetrain, powertrain, armament, and electronic systems of the preceding Mark 2.

The primary armament consists of an IMI 120 mm smoothbore gun. This weapon is compatible with Western 120 mm smoothbore ammunition and the LAHAT anti-tank guided missile. Secondary weaponry includes three 7.62 mm machine guns—one mounted coaxially and two on the roof—and a remote-controlled .50 caliber heavy machine gun aligned with the main gun. An internally mounted 60 mm mortar is configured for remote firing from within the hull. To facilitate communication with dismounted infantry, the vehicle is equipped with an external two-way telephone.

The design retains the front-mounted engine layout to increase frontal protection and provide a rear entrance to the main crew compartment. The Mark 3 utilizes the Kasag modular armor system, which allows for replacement or upgrading of protection components in the field. The Mark 3D Dor-Dalet variant features removable modular composite armor on both the chassis and turret. To mitigate internal hazards, the vehicle includes ammunition storage containers designed to minimize the effects of ammunition cook-off and laser designators for threat detection.

Mobility is provided by a 1,200 horsepower diesel engine. The turret was re-engineered to operate independently of the chassis movement, enabling the tracking of targets while the tank is in motion. The Mark 3 BAZ variant introduced NBC protection systems and a central air-conditioning system. The subsequent Dor-Dalet generation incorporated fully stabilized panoramic commander's sights for hunter-killer operations and thermal imaging systems for both the gunner and commander.

The Merkava 3 has been produced in large numbers and served as the most numerous main battle tank in frontline IDF service during its operational lifespan. Combat deployments include the South Lebanon conflict and the First and Second Intifadas. In 2002, a Mark 3 was destroyed by a 100 kg explosive device near Netzarim. The vehicle participated in the 2006 Lebanon War, where it faced tandem-warhead anti-tank missiles such as the Kornet and RPG-29. It was also deployed during the Gaza War and Operation Protective Edge in 2014. In 2023, discussions were recorded regarding the potential export of second-hand Mark 3 units to Cyprus.