Engineering dossier — experimental demonstrator

Converting a military tank for 90° vertical firing

Complete technical study: torque calculations by angle, hydraulic cylinder sizing, manual transmission, costs and real feasibility — with interactive calculators and animations.

Important preamble

No real main battle tank is designed to fire at 90°. Modern MBTs (Leopard 2, M1 Abrams, T-90…) are limited to about +20° to +42°. A 90° conversion is an experimental / demonstrator project, not a standard military modification.

0 N·m

Max gross torque (at 0°)

120 mm cannon ≈ 1,800 kg

0 N·m

Residual torque (92% counterweight)

~92% reduction

0 N

Required cylinder force

≈ 432 kgf — 0.6 m arm

0:1

Transmission ratio

2 gear stages

◆ Tactical advantages of vertical fire

Why a cannon capable of reaching 90° elevation unlocks unprecedented capabilities on the battlefield.

Anti-aircraft defense

A 90° cannon can engage low-altitude aircraft — attack helicopters, diving planes, loitering munitions — where a standard tank (limited to ~20°) is helpless. The large caliber (120 mm) compensates for aiming difficulty with a wide lethal radius.

Helicopters · Aircraft · Drones

Counter-drone capability (C-UAS)

FPV drones and teleoperated munitions typically attack in a vertical dive. Maximum elevation provides a direct-fire capability against these threats that conventional onboard systems cannot engage.

Top modern threat

Urban warfare — high-angle engagement

In urban zones, threats emerge from upper floors, rooftops, and terraces. 90° elevation allows engaging these positions without exposing the vehicle, where a standard tank must reverse to find an angle.

Urban superiority

Mountain warfare

In steep terrain, enemy positions are often above. Vertical fire engages ridge or cliff targets at a direct angle, without costly flanking maneuvers that waste time and lives.

Dead zone eliminated

Indirect mortar-like fire

At 90° (or near), the projectile follows a near-vertical trajectory: falling almost straight down on the target, like a heavy 120 mm mortar. Useful for reaching positions behind cover, trenches, or fortifications.

120 mm mortar effect

Deterrent effect & versatility

A single vehicle combines direct fire (0–20°) and anti-aircraft / indirect fire (20–90°). This versatility reduces the need for specialized units (SPAAG, mortars) and complicates enemy planning.

Multi-role platform