Cluster Munitions - Capable to destroy tank?

EnemyAce · #1 March 27th, 2007, 12:50 PM

Can those darn munitions be so deadly so they can take out t-72?

Msta-B section wiped three of my t-72s with one or two cluster munition explosion. I wondered are they really so lethal that they can penetrate t-72 armor?

Marcello · #2 March 27th, 2007, 01:28 PM

Cluster munitions are lethal weapons, yes. The penetration of a single bomblet isn't impressive by normal standards, around 10-11cm IIRC. However they are released in mid air and will land on a tank from the above. The top turret armor of the typical T-XX is around 4 cm, meaning that it will easily penetrate . Even if the top armor was reinforced (either with ERA bricks or passive armor) the engine deck is still vulnerable, so the tank can still get immobilized.

mr_clark · #3 March 28th, 2007, 06:17 AM

Besides there is also Multi Effect Cluster ammo, featuring larger shaped-charge warheads which will easily penetrate a modern tank's top armor.

EnemyAce · #4 March 29th, 2007, 03:48 PM

I guess I just have to face it, though I still wonder how 155mm artillery ammo rarely is capable to destroy a tank in this game, but cluster munition can do even from a larger area.

pdoktar · #5 March 30th, 2007, 08:31 AM

Because as said, cluster munitions attack the top of the tank where its HEAT or Dual-Purpose HEAT warhead will have enough power to penetrate that thin armor. Also the tank is usually struck by several munitions, thus increasing the chance to inflict critical damage to the vehicle or crew.

Opinions are varied, but generally a 155mm HE shell will not certainly destroy a MBT. It will give it a serious shock and disable systems, but the chance of a direct hit is extremely small. So the idea of those cluster munitions is to increase or even assure the chance of a hit in a given area for a single shell carrying those cluster munitions.

PlasmaKrab · #6 March 30th, 2007, 10:16 AM

Also remember that to be "destroyed" in game terms, a tank or other AFV doesn't have to be a flaming wreck. Given the short duration of scenarios, "destroyed" tanks can belong to the category that can be towed to the rear area to be patched up in a matter of hours or days. There are many ways to totally disable a tank on the battlefield, not all permanent, and they are the ones used in the game.