Jian Lin test-drives a working tank he built for his 6-year-old son in Mianzhu, Sichuan Province on Wednesday. Photo: CFP

What other toy would the son of an ex-military mechanic expect from his dad than a huge, working tank?

Father Jian Lin of Mianzhu, Sichuan Province, was dressed in full uniform as he drove his tank on its first test run on Wednesday.

Jian, who once served in the Chinese navy as a drone mechanic, poured two months and 40,000 yuan ($6,440) into the tank.

The 31-year-old truck driver explained it was his 6-year-old son that inspired him to build the 3-ton machine.

"His toy tank was broken and he repeatedly asked me for a new one," said Jian, "I built it to realize my dream and also to present my son a cool and giant toy."

And giant it is - at 4.5 meters long and 2.1 meters tall, the tank boasts a turret capable of turning 360 degrees. Although the cannon doesn't shoot projectiles, it makes a thunderous "bang," which is pretty cool. 

Jian said his next project will be to build an amphibious version of the tank.

Chengdu Business Daily