Newsletter
Newsletter Support JNS

Israel announces brand-new tank: Merkava Mark IV Barak

An upgrade from the Merkava Mark IV, it will feature advanced technology systems, such as artificial intelligence and a smart task computer to integrate multiple tasks simultaneously.

A computer simulation of the new Merkava Mark IV Barak tank. Source: IDF Spokesperson's Unit.
A computer simulation of the new Merkava Mark IV Barak tank. Source: IDF Spokesperson’s Unit.

Israel has rolled out its most state-of-the-art new tank, which will be battle-ready in three years—the Merkava Mark IV Barak.

The new tank is an upgrade from the Merkava Mark IV, and will feature advanced technology systems such as artificial intelligence and a smart task computer to integrate multiple tasks simultaneously.

The mission computer, operated by modern touch screens instead of switch pads, will be able to analyze incoming data and alert the commander according to urgency and mission-relatedness.

The Barak (Hebrew for “lightning”) tank will include an improved cannon and commander’s gun sight, and be equipped with the Iron Vision helmet, which enables fighters to maneuver inside tight urban areas without having to raise their heads out of the tank and potentially expose themselves to enemy fire.

It will also feature an improved anti-missile Trophy system, as well as process automation.

The Armored Corps has announced that it will also be adapting its traditional tank configuration, adding a 10th tank and additional commander to each company.

“The worst thing about J Street is it’s duplicitous,” Amb. Yechiel Leiter, the Israeli envoy in Washington, said at an event on Monday.
Authorities say about 100 fliers containing antisemitic imagery and language were thrown from a vehicle onto residential streets early Saturday, prompting increased patrols in the area.
“Hatred directed against one faith community is a threat to every faith community,” the World Jewish Congress stated after authorities responded to reported gunfire and possible casualties at the Clairemont center.
“Serious negotiations are now taking place,” the U.S. president said, adding that the U.S. military remains prepared to launch a “full, large-scale assault” if talks fail.
It’s vital to “honor the contributions—some of the many contributions—of Jewish Americans,” Katy Yaroslavsky said at a joint council meeting/honorary event.
Federal prosecutors allege that Zaid Gitesatani punched a Jewish man outside Adas Torah Synagogue during an anti-Israel protest and later boasted about the attack on social media.