MBT

MBT stands for main battle tank, a term used to describe a heavily armored, heavily armed armored fighting vehicle designed to dominate on the battlefield. The concept emerged in the mid-20th century as militaries sought a single, versatile platform capable of both engaging enemy tanks and supporting infantry. Modern MBTs feature a combination of a large-caliber main gun (typically 90–125 mm or larger), turreted armor, and advanced fire-control and target acquisition systems mounted on a tracked chassis. They rely on composite or reactive armor, modern radios, and, increasingly, active protection systems to enhance survivability. Propulsion is usually a diesel or turbine engine, providing a balance of speed, range, and cross-country mobility. In combat, MBTs operate within combined arms formations, coordinating with infantry, artillery, air support, and reconnaissance to breach defenses, defeat opposing armor, and provide direct fire support. Their effectiveness depends on protection, crew training, networked sensors, and the ability to operate under adverse terrain and urban conditions, where anti-tank weapons and drones present significant challenges.

Other uses of the acronym MBT include Masai Barefoot Technology, a footwear brand known for its distinctive curved soles marketed to promote balance and posture. Because MBT can refer to multiple organizations, products, or programs, its meaning is often determined by context. In military discussions, MBT almost always denotes main battle tanks, whereas civilian or commercial contexts may point to different interpretations.