On December 13, 2023, Zimbabwe received a batch of military equipment from China, valued at approximately 28 million U.S. dollars, as part of its efforts to modernize its armed forces. This development, confirmed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa on his Twitter account, marks an update to the country’s military arsenal.
The delivery, which took place at the Inkomo Mechanized Brigade, northwest of Harare, included various types of advanced military equipment. Among these were the Norinco PTL-02 6×6 assault gun tank destroyer armored vehicle, also called WMA-301, and numerous WZ551 6×6 armored personnel carriers.
The PTL-02, a 105mm tank destroyer, utilizes the highly mobile, reliable, and cost-effective WMZ551 6×6 wheeled chassis. This vehicle is equipped with a 105mm tank gun designed for low recoil, enhancing its capability to fire a variety of 105mm tank ammunition. Additionally, the PTL-02 can launch 105mm gun-launched laser-beam riding missiles, effectively extending its engagement range up to 5km, particularly against main battle tanks. Featuring a blend of versatile combat functions and advanced comprehensive capabilities, the PTL-02 105mm 6×6 assault gun tank destroyer armored vehicle stands out for its high mobility and operational efficiency.
The WZ551s are available in several configurations, some with a turret for a 25mm cannon and others with a turret equipped with a 12.7mm heavy machine gun. The Type WZ 551, also known as Type 90, is a versatile wheeled armored vehicle, developed by NORINCO and first seen in prototype form in 1986. Although it bears superficial similarities to the French VAB, particularly in its general design, the Type WZ 551 is distinguished by its unique features such as dimensions, weight, and various technical aspects.
In addition to these combat vehicles, the consignment included ambulances, motorized water purifiers, patrol boats, and minibusses, as well as various weapons, including sniper rifles, machine guns, and pistols. The Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC) described this acquisition as a significant update for the country’s armed forces.