The name “Tank” came from the secretive fashion in which the British were manufacturing their tanks – different parts were constructed in various factories, and workers were told they were building water tanks. Israel might be reported as only having 1,680 main battle tanks, but considering the volatile part of the world in which the country is situated, it is reasonable to believe the 3,200+ figure is more likely.The first ever tank emerged on the battlefield in 1916, during the first World War. The reason behind this is that estimates tend to be conservative, and it's unlikely a government is ever going to release truly accurate numbers when it comes to military equipment. This specifically applies to the country in first place on this list, which keeps most of its tanks in storage.įor the sake of this compilation of military might, it has been decided to use the higher figures available (although this means Israel still doesn't claim a place in the top 10). Numbers also include tanks that are currently kept in storage, as they are still capable of operation. But the same source later states a figure of 'just' 1,680 tanks. For example, one figure stated for Israel suggests a combined force of various types of Merkavas and Magachs numbering over 3,200. Conflicting numbers, even from a single source, abound.

Whereas some nations pride themselves on transparency, other shadowy states would rather not give details of their military might. Naturally, accurate figures for main battle tank numbers are difficult to procure.

Having nearly 70 tons of weaponry bearing down on you at over 40mph is likely enough to make anyone think twice about standing up to these very strong and very modern variants of a time honoured concept. Such is their importance to a nation's military that every country included on this list can count its MBT force numbers in their thousands. These lumbering behemoths combine life-saving armor with fearsome fire power to overwhelm opposition forces, support infantry advances and assist in holding and securing ground. When it comes to ground forces, there are few military vehicles more intimidating than a large, well-organized Main Battle Tank (MBT) force.

Top ten best main battle tanks