Hyundai Rotem has begun developing a prototype of the next-generation manned/unmanned hybrid tank 'K3' (working title) equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell. The K3 is characterized by its use of hydrogen fuel cells and electric motors to reduce noise and heat signals. This allows for stealthy low-speed operations while minimizing the risk of exposure to enemies, thereby maximizing survivability.
According to the defense industry on the 25th, Hyundai Rotem plans to participate in the bidding for the next-generation tank prototype development led by the Agency for Defense Development (ADD). Hyundai Rotem is participating as the leading company in the development project of hybrid powertrain technology for the next-generation tank, which the government has been pushing since April, aiming for completion by 2029.
The K3 tank features a power system based on a hydrogen fuel cell. In its early development, it will use a hydrogen-diesel hybrid system and plans to transition to a fully hydrogen-powered system around 2040.
One of the drawbacks of tanks so far has been the noise and heat generated by the engine and transmission during operation, which can expose them to enemies. However, by using hydrogen fuel cells and electric motors instead of an engine and transmission, noise and heat can be drastically reduced.
The currently developing hybrid powertrain is a high-output system combined with a 1,200-horsepower diesel engine and a 300-horsepower electric motor, totaling 1,500 horsepower. Additionally, the hybrid system can improve fuel efficiency.
The K3 boasts overwhelming performance in terms of firepower and protection. The K3 is planned to be equipped with a 130 mm smoothbore gun with an automatic loading device on an unmanned turret. The existing K2 Black Panther's main gun is 120 mm. The larger the caliber of the gun, the more powerful the shell that can be fired.
Large-caliber guns of over 130 mm are expected to improve penetration and explosive power against armor by at least 50% compared to existing models.
Equipped with an artificial intelligence (AI) fire control system, it can strike targets with precision at distances of up to 5 km without human assistance. It is also reported to have the capability to engage targets up to 8 km away without direct line of sight, thanks to the incorporation of anti-tank guided missiles.
The latest technologies for crew survivability have also been integrated. It is designed to evade enemy detection through the application of radar-absorbing paint and minimizing protrusions on the vehicle. Two or three crew members can board a separate armored space in the front of the vehicle, allowing them to avoid danger in case of turret or ammunition storage hits.
A large display is expected to be implemented to check the surroundings through 360-degree virtual reality technology without having to open the hatch. Additionally, a multilayered defense system, including an active protection system (APS), directional infrared countermeasures (DIRCM) to disrupt heat-seeking missiles, and drone jamming devices, has been applied.
There are currently no tanks equipped with hybrid powertrains. Hyundai Rotem is reported to have set performance goals of a combat weight of under 55 tons, a top speed of over 70 km/h on the road, and a cruising range of over 500 km.