Type 96A main battle tanks from the PLA's Eastern Theatre Command have been equipped with the GL-6 active protection system to counter drones and anti-tank missiles, state media reported. Video footage released by official newspaper China Youth Daily on Monday showed the upgraded tanks.
Video footage released by the official newspaper China Youth Daily on Monday showed Type 96A main battle tanks equipped with the GL-6 active protection system, or APS. The tanks belong to the 71st Group Army unit under the PLA’s Eastern Theatre Command, which is mainly responsible for possible amphibious operations across the Taiwan Strait.
The GL-6 system uses 360-degree radars, infrared and optoelectronic sensors to detect incoming threats—including drones, missiles and rockets—and automatically deploys interceptor munitions to neutralise them. State media highlighted the upgrade as a response to such threats.
The Eastern Theatre Command faces the Taiwan Strait, and its forces regularly conduct related drills. This development equips ageing tanks for modern warfare scenarios.