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) 61 Length 7600 mm Length (cannon forward) 8780 mm Max. Width 3700 mm Max. Height 2760 mm range (road) 500 km Forward speed (max) 55 kph F. speed (average,terrain) 38 kph Reverse speed 25 kph Engine 882kW TCM diesel AVDS-1790-9AR Vertical obstacle climb 1 m Maximum width ditch 3.5 m Fording Depth 1.38 (2) m fuel tank (l) 1250 Main Gun 105mm cannon Coaxial machinegun 7.62mm Anti-personnel machinegun 2 x7.62mm Commander's machinegun 12.7 mm Light Mortar 60 mm