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Menhit No. 2 Fast Tank
| Menhit No. 2 Fast Tank | |
|---|---|
| Main Battle Tank | |
| Built | 2062-Present |
| Class | FT-2 |
| Crew | 3 |
| Length | 8.9 metres (with gun) |
| Operating | 310 |
| Speed | 70 km/h |
| Weight | 28 tonnes |
| Width | 3.4 metres |
The Menhit No. 2 Fast Tank is Vekllei’s main battle tank, designed for rapid deployment and amphibious operations across the Commonwealth’s island republics. Introduced in 2062 as a replacement for the ancient Sur No. 1, the No. 2 better suits the Commonwealth’s expeditionary approach to armoured warfare, and sacrifices the No. 1’s heavy armour for air-mobility and flexibility, allowing it to be moved around islands quickly and discretely.
These “fast tanks” function as light tanks designed for the Commonwealth’s defensive posture. They operate in a variety of roles with or without infantry support, from reconnaissance to direct assault. The design philosophy favours mobility and versatility over conventional heavy armour protection, often operating alongside armoured cars.
The tank’s primary armament consists of a 105mm rifled main gun developed by Commonwealth Arsenal with a 7mm coaxial machine gun and a pintle-mounted 7mm commander’s machine gun. A collapsible anti-shaped charge fence provides additional protection against anti-tank weapons. The turret houses a comprehensive fire control system including day and night vision optics, rangefinders and electro-optical jammers.
The hydropneumatic suspension allows independent control of each road wheel, permitting the tank to adjust its ground clearance and traverse rough terrain. This system also facilitates the vehicle’s amphibious capability when fitted with buoyancy canisters and a collapsible snorkel. Air-lift hard points allow transport by heavy helicopter or cargo aircraft.
The three-man crew comprises commander, gunner and driver. External stowage includes a carry-all basket for infantry equipment (and, commonly, the infantry), ammunition storage with blowout panels, and provision for flares and chaff dispensers. External fuel canisters double as flotation aids during amphibious operations.
Most Javelin regiments operate the No. 2 as their primary armoured vehicle, with reconnaissance variants serving in the 3rd Javelin Scouts Regiment.