OBJ 279

 The Object 279 is a Soviet experimental heavy tank designed during the Cold War, notable for its unique shape and advanced armor intended to provide exceptional protection against various battlefield threats, including nuclear blasts. Here's a breakdown of its key features:

1. Design

• Hull Shape: The most striking feature of Object 279 is its saucer-like, rounded hull. The tank was designed with a circular shape to help deflect shells and to protect against the shockwave of a nuclear explosion. The hull shape could also prevent the vehicle from being overturned by such blasts.
• Quad Track System: Instead of the usual two tracks seen in most tanks, Object 279 had four tracks. This was intended to improve mobility over difficult terrains like snow, swamps, and soft ground. It also reduced ground pressure, making it less likely to become stuck.
• Weight and Size: The tank weighed around 60 tons, with dimensions similar to contemporary heavy tanks, but its design provided greater survivability and mobility.

2. Armament

• Main Gun: It was equipped with a 130mm M-65 rifled gun. This gun had considerable firepower, capable of defeating heavily armored vehicles. The tank carried 24 rounds for the main gun, a mixture of armor-piercing and high-explosive ammunition.
• Secondary Armament: It had a coaxial 14.5mm KPVT heavy machine gun, effective against infantry and lightly armored targets.

3. Armor

• Protection: The tank had a multi-layered armor scheme with a combination of steel and composite materials. Its frontal armor was designed to withstand hits from powerful anti-tank guns and shaped charges.
• NBC Protection: The Object 279 had built-in protection against nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) threats. The hull shape also played a role in deflecting radiation from nuclear blasts.