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What are the factors that effect the maximum effective range of modern main battle tanks. Ammunition type, cannon length, fire control system and target type all contribute to this tightly held metric. Let's consider some of those factors. 1/
The first factor is ammunition type. By nature of design an APFSDS projectile will always travel further (considerably so) than other ammo natures. The APFSDS muzzle velocity and correspondingly flat trajectory make it the go to (non missile) round when engaging at long range. 2/ 
The next factor is cannon length. It's a fine balance between the length of the cannon & the propellant mix used to maximise the chamber pressure & it's effect on muzzle velocity (MV). Longer cannons can increase accuracy & MV which all impact on maximum effective range 3/
Fire control systems are key to maximising MERs. The two key components of the FCS that impact range are the laser range finder (incorrect range estimation significantly reduces accuracy at ranges beyond battle range) and the ballistic computer. If these two components are 4/
unservicable than engagements are limited to battle ranges below 1500m. The other key component is the gunners primary sight. You can not kill what you can not see. Fully functional western MBT FCSs routinely achieve range overmatch against traditional Soviet designs. 5/
Long range shooting is a highly developed skill. Accurate boresighting & zeroing are critical as is the quality of the gunners lay. Supported by a quality sight, great cannon & 1st class ammo a proficient crew in an M1 or Leo 2 can engage targets using direct fire out to 5km. 6/
However, it is the final factor, Tgt type which largely influences the maximum effective range of any Tk. Its not enough to hit the Tgt, the whole point is a K-kill with the first round. A Tgts armour plays a significant part in the outcome & not all armour is created equally. 7/
A Tanks maximum effective range is a complicated tightly held metric. Heavily influenced by the type of target being engaged & the capability of the platform. It's not generally open source & the numbers found on sales brochures like this are not worth the paper their written on.
