Not sure if this was pointed out b4, but IMHO the SAF should
have considered using the Russian BMP3 with a 125mm gun as a
replacement light tank for the SM-1. Heck, even in it's IFV
version, the 100mm cannon combined with 30mm automatic cannon would
have offered much more firepower than the SM1's 75mm vintage
cannon. It is also amphibious & at less than 19 tons(loaded), I
think it might be possible to transport it via C130. Its internal
might be pretty packed, as are most Russian armored vehicles, but
then again, so is the Bionix II. If Russian reliability is an
concern, STK could perhaps assemble the machines locally under
license.
If a heavier armored "light" tank is required, the German TAM
should fit the bill, provided that it's upgraded with better Fire
control & sights. At 30.5ton, it's just slightly heavier than
the Primus SSPH.
