Here is what I think would solve the Zhukov most major faults 1). the lack of depth in the ammo bin, and 2). The hull mounted SRM-6. I present the Chuikov heavy tank.
Chuikov (Intro) Tank
IS Introductory Box Set
75 tons
BV: 1,024
Cost: 2,008,563 C-bills
Movement: 3/5 (Tracked)
Engine: 225 ICE
Internal: 40
Armor: 176
Internal Armor
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Front 8 44
Right 8 32
Left 8 32
Rear 8 24
Turret 8 44
Weapon Loc Heat
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AC/10 TU 3
LRM 20 TU 6
SRM 6 TU 4
Ammo Loc Shots
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AC/10 Ammo BD 10
AC/10 Ammo BD 10
LRM 20 Ammo BD 6
LRM 20 Ammo BD 6
SRM 6 Ammo BD 15
This is as straight outta 3025 upgrade other than the minor cost to upgrade and feed (as LRM ammo is costly), it also requires a minor overhaul to the mini.
The modernizirovana version
Chuikov (modernizirovana) Tank
IS advanced
75 tons
BV: 1,086
Cost: 2,068,938 C-bills
Movement: 3/5 (Tracked)
Engine: 225 ICE
Internal: 40
Armor: 176
Internal Armor
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Front 8 44
Right 8 32
Left 8 32
Rear 8 24
Turret 8 44
Weapon Loc Heat
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Ultra AC/10 TU 4
Enhanced LRM 15 TU 5
SRM 4 TU 3
Ammo Loc Shots
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Ultra AC/10 Ammo BD 10
Ultra AC/10 Ammo BD 10
Enhanced LRM 15 Ammo BD 8
Enhanced LRM 15 Ammo BD 8
SRM 4 Ammo BD 25
SRM 4 Inferno Ammo BD 25
Improvements to both ranged firepower, range minimums, and anti-infantry firepower upgrades. While the throw weight of the NLRM-15 is 75% of the old LRM-20, the ammo endurance is improved as well as the shorter minimum range allows this system to be more profitably used when engaged up close. The SRM-4 replaces the SRM-6 to maintain it's location in the turret, and with the 2nd ton of ammunition gives the tank some much needed anti-infantry firepower, however in some instances this bin has been reconfigured to give more capability to the NLRM system for specialized munitions. Some may criticize the choice of the Ultra-10 system, the Rapid-Fire capability is only meant to be used in emergency situations where unless drastic and immediate action does not take place, may result in the loss of the vehicle.
(that and the LBX-10 is just way too easy here, plus it's slightly cheaper)