Indonesia continues improvement works on PT-76 light amphibious tanks

The PT-76M of the Indonesian Marine Corps. Photo c/o Garuda Militer website.

The Indonesian Marine Corps (MARINIR) continues to the upgrade works on their Soviet-era PT-76 light amphibious tanks, with the upgrades covering weapons and powerplant improvement upgrade.

Indonesian company PT Lumindo Artha Sejati contracted to do the work, with the improved tanks designated as PT-76M, with “M” 

The PT-76’s 76.2mm gun was replaced with a new John Cockerill Mk. III 90mm NATO cannon with a new fire control system, while the original Soviet 7.62mm co-axial machine guns was replaced by the FN MAG 7.62x51mm machine gun. 

Also, the original engine was replaced with a new Detroit Diesel 6V-92T diesel engine, coupled to the original transmission.

A new 24V alternator, cooling and electrical system, and modifications on the vehicle’s fuel, exhaust hull and top deck were also included in the upgrade works.

The new 90mm gun can fire a wide variety of ammunition including Armor-Piercing Fin-Stabilized Discarding Sabot (APFSDS) rounds, while the new fire control system allows day and night operation and improved accuracy. 

The tank will also be fitted with a new solid-state all-electric gun/turret stabilization and power control system.


[1] Indomiliter
[2] Army Recognition