Chinese ZTQ-15 Light Tanks seen with Cope Cage Grills to shield against India’s rising Kamikaze Drone threat

Source : IgMp Bulletin

Chinese People's Liberation Army ground forces with ZTQ-15 or Type-15 Light Tanks, seen with Cope Cage armor for protection against rising number of Indian Kamikaze Drones and Loitering Munitions

Recent visuals of China's ZTQ-15 light tanks have revealed a notable upgrade in their defense systems, with the addition of large, cage-like structures, commonly referred to as 'Cope Cages.' These grills, now covering the front, sides, top, and rear of the tanks, aim to protect crucial components such as the engine, transmission compartments, and parts of the external fuel tanks. This defensive enhancement comes as India ramps up its use of kamikaze drones and loitering munitions, signaling that China may be preparing for this growing threat along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

The ZTQ-15, also known as the Type 15, is specifically designed for rugged terrains like mountains and jungles, making it ideal for regions like the LAC, where the landscape presents challenges for heavier armor. First publicly unveiled in 2016, this light tank features a 105mm gun capable of firing both conventional rounds and guided missiles, providing considerable firepower despite its lighter build compared to main battle tanks.

The addition of these "Cope Cages" likely aims to counter threats from drones and loitering munitions, which have proven effective in targeting armored vehicles in recent conflicts globally. Kamikaze drones, in particular, pose a significant threat as they can strike vulnerable areas of tanks, such as the roof or engine compartments, that are less armored than the front or sides.

By outfitting the ZTQ-15 with these grill-like structures, Chinese engineers aim to minimize the damage caused by such attacks. These grills are designed to pre-detonate the warheads of rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), or loitering munitions before they hit the main body of the tank, reducing the chances of penetration and critical damage.

India's recent acquisition of kamikaze drones and loitering munitions for its military likely played a role in China's decision to enhance the ZTQ-15 tanks' protective systems. The Indian Army has made considerable progress in sourcing both domestically produced and foreign loitering munitions, which are capable of hovering over combat zones for long periods before launching precise strikes on targets. These weapons are highly accurate and can strike vulnerable spots on armored vehicles, such as tanks. 

In India, the number of companies developing kamikaze drones and loitering munitions is expanding rapidly, with numerous defense startups introducing innovative aerial systems and munitions designed to inflict severe damage on moving armored vehicles. These new technologies have the potential to change the dynamics of battle, allowing for penetration of vehicle defenses and significantly altering combat outcomes.

Along the LAC, where tensions between India and China have been high since 2020, drone-based weapon systems could prove highly effective against lightly armored vehicles like the ZTQ-15. China's decision to adopt this additional layer of armor may be a direct response to India's increased drone capabilities.

The ZTQ-15 was designed to fulfill the needs of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in areas where heavier tanks, like the Type 99, may face operational challenges. Weighing between 33 and 36 tons, the ZTQ-15 can maneuver more efficiently in high-altitude regions and dense forest environments. Its 105mm rifled gun is versatile, firing a range of ammunition including armor-piercing rounds and guided missiles, allowing it to engage both armored targets and infantry at long range.

China’s Type-15 light tank with Counter Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) protection. (Image Source: Twitter/X platform)

Despite being more lightly armored than its heavier counterparts, the ZTQ-15 is equipped with modern defense systems, including active protection systems (APS) designed to intercept incoming projectiles. However, the installation of grill armor indicates that passive protection against aerial threats like drones is still a priority for Chinese engineers.

This defensive upgrade reflects China's concern over India's rapidly advancing drone capabilities, particularly as tensions remain high along their contested border.

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