Very helpful explanation Alex! And those pictures clearly show the differences between models. Thanks a lot!

I would check the top drawing of ZTZ-99 phase 2. I had already seen that drawing when building my so called ZTZ-99B of Hobby Boss, but they don't seem confirmed by photos. My main reference was the photos of the pixeled tanks on parade, that show the kit reasonably right. The side cannisters are parallel, only more protruding outside because of their ERA protection. I suspect that the drawings are based on misidentified photos of ZTZ-96A or Type-2000. The photos from the front are taken from different positions with different focal length, the first one from close and the second one from far. I can't deny that there could be some difference in the width of the front armour, but not so strong as shown in the drawings.

I would check the top drawing of ZTZ-99 phase 2. I had already seen that drawing when building my so called ZTZ-99B of Hobby Boss, but they don't seem confirmed by photos. My main reference was the photos of the pixeled tanks on parade, that show the kit reasonably right. The side cannisters are parallel, only more protruding outside because of their ERA protection. I suspect that the drawings are based on misidentified photos of ZTZ-96A or Type-2000. The photos from the front are taken from different positions with different focal length, the first one from close and the second one from far. I can't deny that there could be some difference in the width of the front armour, but not so strong as shown in the drawings.[/quote] hi there, the drawing has some flaws but my intention is to say the difference between phase1 and phase2 as the drawing can give you more identical visual understanding of the structure between ztz-99phase1 and phase2 such as: the change of ERA configuration on the front. the absence of egg shell structure of turret top on Phase 2.

I would check the top drawing of ZTZ-99 phase 2. I had already seen that drawing when building my so called ZTZ-99B of Hobby Boss, but they don't seem confirmed by photos. My main reference was the photos of the pixeled tanks on parade, that show the kit reasonably right. The side cannisters are parallel, only more protruding outside because of their ERA protection. I suspect that the drawings are based on misidentified photos of ZTZ-96A or Type-2000. The photos from the front are taken from different positions with different focal length, the first one from close and the second one from far. I can't deny that there could be some difference in the width of the front armour, but not so strong as shown in the drawings.[/quote] phase1 phase2

Is there any difference between the hulls of phase 1 and phase 2 tanks or are the differencies located only at the turrets?

hull has no visual changes except the frontal era plate has one blast shield which could be the same function on those T-72/80/90.

Just by judging from the sprue shots and preview pics of the HB offering.. which kit (Panda or HB) would you prefer? Accuracy and/or detail wise. cheers Chris

Time for some quick FAQ for ztz-99 family this time? Ok no more BLah blah. In actual PLA service there is no such a name as ztz-99A or ztz-99B, neither ata-99A1/A2 or ztz-99 B. They are all Internet given name by public or some network press. The HOBBYBOSS previous ztz-99A/B kit in fact are all called ztz-99 main battle tank. If you feel confused here is the technical name for those old Ztz-99 series: HOBBYBOSS ztz-99A are called ztz-99 phase1, it is the first phase of upgraded for those initial production ztz-99 main battle tanks, which added frontal hull and turret composite era blocks. The shape of turret is still as it were which with a egg shell structure from ztz-99. Those are all upgraded from ztz-99 While the ztz-99B is ztz-99 phase 2. You can call it ztz-99 standard production. The turret shape got changed which there is no longer eggshell on the top of turret, which with a smoother turret top shape.Era configuration shape also got redesigned like side and rear protection for the turret. In army they are all called ztz-99 as they belong to initial production ztz-99 and standard production ztz-99. The big engine unit(1200HP) makes ztz-99 has longer hull. Some features you see may made it looks like a T-72, but they are two totally different tanks. As for the HB83892 99A? Good question This ztz-99-A can be regard as some final version or what ztz-99 should be like at the beginning. the new engine unit is significantly smaller than ztz-99 which proved 1500HP. Turret shape also got redesign to fit new FCS and laser weapon system. In short, new turret and new hull(smaller/shorter), and new FCS makes it can be regarded as a brand new tank. As for who is better? Panda or HOBbpByBoss? It's uptoyou guys. panda kit is very well detailed and I believe HOBBYBOSS one will also be nice and easy for assembling[/quote] Have you ever been able to lock down when the various sub-types were accepted officially into service? I want to model a PLA tank in late 2003/early 2004 but have not been able to confirm whether the ZTZ 99 phase 1 was in production or if was still the base ZTZ 99 without ERA. Thanks, Matt

In this kit you are offered 2 different type commanders panoramic sights can anyone tell me which is the latest type currently used? Thank you in advance!!!!