Original Link: http://www.military-today.com/tanks/merkava_mk4.htm

The Merkava Mk.4 Main Battle Tank (MBT) entered service with Israel Defense Forces in 2004. It is a further development of the Merkava Mk.3. A total of 360 of these tanks have already been built and another 300 have been ordered by Israeli Defense Forces. For a long time these tanks were not available for export, though some of the tank's systems and components were offered for the export customers. However in 2014 it was reported, that Israel will export a number of these tanks to an undisclosed customer, possibly Columbia. Currently the Merkava Mk.4 is among 10 best main battle tanks in the world.

The Merkava Mk.4 is slightly larger than the previous Mk.3. The new MBT is one of the most protected tanks in the world. It has a new armor, comparing with predecessor. Hull of the Merkava Mk.4 was redesigned to install new engine. A front-mounted engine also provided improved frontal protection. The Mk.4 is also fitted with new modular armor, that can be reconfigured to match specific threats. Bottom of the hull has been strengthened for better protection against land mines. Improved Merkava Mk.4 Meil Ruach tanks are fitted with a combat-proven Trophy active protection system, which destroys incoming anti-tank rockets and missiles. Protection suite also includes advanced threat identification and warning system. This MBT is also well protected against air-launched guided missiles and top attack anti-tank weapons.