The Merkava is the innovative Israeli design of Major General Israel Tal. The primary design criteria was crew survivability. Every part of the overalldesign is expected to contribute to helping the crew survive. The engine is inthe front to provide protection to the crew. There is a special protectiveumbrella for the tank commander to enable protection from indirect fire with thehatches open. Special "spaced armor" is in use along with protectedfuel and ammo compartments.

The Merkava can also carry a small Infantry squad internally under complete armored protection.

Weight (t) 60 Length 7450 mm Length (cannon forward) 8630 mm Max. Width 3700 mm Max. Height 2750 mm range (road) 400 km Forward speed (max) 46 kph F. speed (average,terrain) 33 kph Reverse speed 22 kph Engine 560kW TCM diesel AVDS-1790-9AR ? Vertical obstacle climb 0,95 m Maximum width ditch 3 m Fording Depth 1.38 (2) m fuel tank (l) 900 Main Gun 105mm cannon Coaxial machinegun 7.62mm ? Anti-personnel machinegun 2 x7.62mm ? Commander's machinegun 12.7 mm ? Light Mortar 60 mm ?