Well put isthvan, although I am not sure what design flaw exist in the Merkava. I think we are still using lots of conjectures when looking at this issue. We really don't know what systems are being used and hit? Are these top hits or side hits? If you look at the Merkava1 and 2 you will notice rounded cast armour on the sides of the lower turret area. I think this is the weakest part of this tank although the Merkava3 and 4 has fixed this issue.
Also the engagement ranges are in the area of 300 to 700 meters in some cases so you are looking at good, accurate shots being taken with those ATGW systems. I don't think this will effect the overall out come of the conflict with the destruction of 3 tanks however the legend of the merkava has been somewhat tarnished in professional tank circles with the loss of crewman to manport ATGW....cheers ute.
Also the engagement ranges are in the area of 300 to 700 meters in some cases so you are looking at good, accurate shots being taken with those ATGW systems. I don't think this will effect the overall out come of the conflict with the destruction of 3 tanks however the legend of the merkava has been somewhat tarnished in professional tank circles with the loss of crewman to manport ATGW....cheers ute.