Moscow (Agencies): Russia has delivered a fresh batch of T-90M Proryv and T-72B3M tanks to its military forces, featuring over 200 upgrades aimed at enhancing combat effectiveness, protection, and mobility. The move comes as part of ongoing efforts to bolster battlefield capabilities amid the conflict in Ukraine.
According to the country’s leading tank manufacturer, the latest modifications include: ? Electronic warfare systems designed to suppress enemy UAVs, reducing aerial threats. ? Special nets to counter first-person view drones, a growing challenge in modern warfare. ? Rubber-reinforced protection installed on the rear of the turret and engine-transmission compartment, improving survivability.
- T-90M Proryv: Russia’s Most Advanced Battle Tank
The T-90M Proryv, also known as Proryv-3, is an upgraded variant of the T-90MS main battle tank, developed by Uralvagonzavod. It incorporates lessons learned from combat operations and features significant improvements in protection, mobility, and firepower.
? Armor & Protection: The tank is equipped with Relikt explosive reactive armor (ERA), which offers superior protection against modern anti-tank weapons. It also features a special coating similar to that used on the T-14 Armata, reducing its infrared signature.
? Firepower: The T-90M is armed with a 125mm 2A46M-5 smoothbore gun, capable of firing armor-piercing shells, high-explosive fragmentation rounds, and anti-tank guided missiles. The upgraded Kalina fire control system enhances targeting accuracy and allows engagement of multiple threats simultaneously.
? Mobility: Powered by a V-92S2F diesel engine, the tank boasts 1,130 horsepower, enabling speeds of up to 60 km/h (37 mph). Its torsion bar suspension ensures stability across rough terrain.
? Advanced Technology: The multi-channel sighting system allows for day and night operations, while the secure battlefield communication system enables real-time data exchange with other armored units.
- T-72B3M: A Modernized Workhorse of Russian Armor
The T-72B3M, an upgraded version of the T-72B3, is designed to enhance firepower, mobility, and survivability while maintaining cost efficiency. It is widely used by Russian forces and has undergone several improvements to compete with modern battle tanks.
? Armor & Protection: The tank features advanced explosive reactive armor (ERA), providing increased resistance against anti-tank missiles and armor-piercing rounds. It also includes rear-view cameras and a mechanical drive display system for improved situational awareness.
? Firepower: The T-72B3M is armed with a 125mm 2A46M-5 smoothbore gun, capable of firing armor-piercing discarding sabot (APDS), high-explosive fragmentation (HEF), and high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) rounds. It can also launch 9M119 Refleks (AT-11 Sniper) guided anti-tank missiles, which have a range of up to 4,000 meters.
? Mobility: The tank is powered by a V-92S2F diesel engine, delivering 1,130 horsepower, allowing speeds of up to 60 km/h (37 mph). It is equipped with snorkels for deep fording, enabling operations in challenging terrain.
? Advanced Technology: The fire control system has been upgraded with thermal sights, improving target acquisition in low-visibility conditions. The tank also features encrypted digital voice and data transfer systems, enhancing battlefield communication.
On the eve of Victory Day, Russian forces received the newly enhanced tanks, reinforcing their armored divisions. Despite technological advancements, analysts note that tanks have faced significant challenges on the battlefield, with evolving threats requiring continuous adaptation.
The deployment of upgraded tanks signals a commitment to maintaining battlefield superiority while adapting to modern warfare threats.