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TEL AVIV — The Defense Ministry’s Tank Administration (MANTAK) has developed a new protective system for Israel Defense Forces (IDF) tank crews to combat the risk of smoke inhalation during combat.
The innovation comes following an investigation into multiple incidents where ammunition ignited inside tanks, releasing hazardous smoke that endangered soldiers’ lives.
The urgent need for the system became evident at the onset of Israel’s recent conflict, where tank crews faced significant threats due to ammunition catching fire within their vehicles.
In response, MANTAK swiftly launched an inquiry to assess the severity of the issue and explore potential solutions.
Aiming for Practicality and Efficiency
“The goal was to find a solution that provides an immediate response, is intuitive to operate under extreme pressure, and remains comfortable enough for daily use so that it is always available,” said Maj. V., head of a MANTAK department, who played a key role in the project’s development.
The investigative process involved extensive field research, including analyzing data from tank computers to recreate the conditions under which these incidents occurred.
Additionally, MANTAK conducted a scientific examination of the combustion process of high-explosive munitions to fully understand the physical threats posed to tank crews.
To develop a rapid and practical solution, the Tank Administration collaborated with multiple IDF divisions, including the Armored Corps, the Technology Division, and the Medical Corps.
“We conducted simulated experiments and established a joint team,” Maj. V. explained, emphasizing the importance of a multidisciplinary approach.
From Prototypes to a Breakthrough Solution
Several solutions were initially explored, starting with a modified pilot’s oxygen mask intended to connect directly to a tank’s air conditioning system.
However, despite rapid prototyping capabilities, this design was deemed impractical due to engineering limitations.
The breakthrough came with the adaptation of a compressed air tank system originally designed for helicopter pilots. The system, reengineered for the conditions inside a tank, was successfully tested in field trials.
“The system was successfully tested in a field trial, and we are now in the process of equipping all armored soldiers,” Maj. V. confirmed.
An experienced engineer from the unit reported that the first groups of soldiers have already been trained to use the new system. The swift deployment highlights MANTAK’s commitment to addressing battlefield challenges in real-time.
Setting a Global Standard for Armored Warfare
Incidents of ammunition igniting inside tanks are a common challenge faced by militaries worldwide, with recent conflicts, such as the Russia-Ukraine war, showcasing similar vulnerabilities.
“We have not seen any army successfully dealing with events of this type,” Maj. V. remarked, underscoring the significance of this breakthrough.
The new system is expected to enhance the existing layers of protection for IDF tank crews, complementing active defense systems and other measures designed to safeguard soldiers.
“I am proud that we in the IDF were able to find the solution and provide additional protection for armored soldiers,” Maj. V. said.
He credited the success to the professionalism of MANTAK’s engineers, their understanding of field conditions, and effective collaboration between different units.
As the IDF continues to integrate this system into its armored corps, military analysts suggest that this development could set a new standard for addressing similar risks in armored warfare globally.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members