Comparing: AMX 30 B vs. 121B

Developed in 1966. The vehicle had maneuverability, engine power, and effective anti-tank engagement distance superior to all other vehicles except the Leopard 1. Great view range allowed the vehicle’s commander to coordinate the actions of the crew and to maintain situational awareness, greatly increasing the vehicle’s effectiveness. The armor of the vehicle was quite thin, but it was decided that technological advances in anti-tank shells had essentially rendered armor obsolete: survivability would depend on mobility and firepower. A total of 2,800 vehicles were manufactured.

The upgraded version of the 121 Chinese medium tank, developed in the 1960s. Unlike the prototype, the 121B was equipped with a modern 105-mm rifled gun, improved suspension, and reinforced front armor. The vehicles of this modification were equipped with infrared lamps and a laser rangefinder. The 121B aiming system had a higher firing accuracy than that of the Type 59.