The Israeli army on Thursday revealed details of a new tank it was developing, designed more for use in guerrilla warfare conditions.

The Merkava 4 Barak, scheduled to be operational in three years, will be the latest of the Israeli Merkava tank series, which has traditionally focused on combatting the conventional forces of neighbouring Arab states.

The military said the new model reflected an understanding that the theatres of conflict it faces are changing.

"The enemy won't necessarily be states and armies, but rather an enemy that uses people," Brigadier General Guy Hasson, head of the army's armoured corps, said.

The "dual-use" tank contains technologies including a sensor system that gives its commander a full view of the surroundings in his helmet.

The model -- which will also be equipped with a computer system based on artificial intelligence -- is designed to be more secure in the confines of guerilla clashes.

The Israeli military has been using tanks along the border with Gaza, as tensions have risen during months of protests and clashes that have left over 140 Palestinians dead.

Israeli tanks have fired on positions belonging to Gaza's rulers Hamas, as well as individuals accused of attempting to infiltrate into Israel.

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Army Futures Command to be located in Austin, Pentagon announces
Washington (UPI) Jul 13, 2018
Undersecretary of the Army Ryan D. McCarthy announced that after extensive consideration the Army Futures Command will be located in Austin, Texas. The command, which was announced and stood up at a conference in October 2017, will coordinate modernization efforts across the Army, the Pentagon announced on Friday. Out of a list of several cities, Austin was picked for its proximity to both tech companies and universities with associated programs. Senior Army leaders considered five citie ... read more