The Merkava Mk.4 Meil Ruach (wind coat or windbreaker) is an improved version of the Merkava Mk.4 tank, equipped with Trophy Active Protection System (APS). Sometimes this tank is referred as the Merkava Mk.4 Baz, or Merkava Mk.4M Windbreaker. The main goal was to improve protection of the Merkava Mk.4 tanks against advanced anti-tank guided missiles, fitted with tandem HEAT warheads. Production of this tank began in 2009. The first brigade equipped with these improved Merkava Mk.4 tanks was declared operational in 2011. In 2014 it has been reported, that Israel will export a number of Merkava Mk.4 tanks to an undisclosed customer, possibly Columbia. However it is unknown whether these will be fitted with Trophy active protection system. Currently the Merkava Mk.4 Meil Ruach is one of the best main battle tanks in the world.
