China's Vision for a Nuclear-Powered Battle Tank with Railgun Technology by 2045
By Editor • September 15, 2026 • 1 min read
In a groundbreaking proposal, Chinese military researchers have unveiled plans for a revolutionary nuclear-powered main battle tank that could be equipped with a cutting-edge electromagnetic railgun. This ambitious project aims to achieve a striking range of up to 450 kilometers (approximately 280 miles) and is projected to be operational by 2045.
The detailed concept, which was published in a peer-reviewed paper in June in the journal Acta Armamentarii, describes a formidable 60-ton armored vehicle that would be powered by a small modular reactor (SMR) generating 10 megawatts. The centerpiece of this tank's firepower would be a railgun capable of delivering 50 megajoules of energy.
The authors of the study outline the potential implications of such advanced military technology, indicating a significant leap in both range and firepower for future combat scenarios. While the timeline stretches into the next two decades, the vision demonstrates China's commitment to enhancing its military capabilities and exploring innovative defense solutions.
Source: www.scmp.com
