Russia Reinforces Its Armored Arsenal: Upgraded T-90M and T-72B3M Tanks with Over 100 Enhancements

Russia's defense capabilities are receiving a significant boost as Uralvagonzavod, the state-run tank manufacturer, delivers upgraded T-90M and T-72B3M main battle tanks to the Russian Army. These modernized tanks come with over 100 enhancements, tailored to counter evolving battlefield threats and address the shortcomings exposed during the ongoing Ukraine conflict.

Key Upgrades for Modern Warfare

The latest iterations of the T-90M and T-72B3M tanks incorporate advanced defensive measures to withstand the rigors of modern combat. Among the notable improvements are:

1. Anti-Drone Protection: New anti-first-person view (FPV) drone nets and electronic warfare systems designed to disrupt drone operations.
2. Enhanced Armor: Reinforced rubber protection and additional shielding for critical areas, including the engine and transmission compartments.
3. Reduced Visibility: Measures to decrease detectability by enemy sensors, improving survivability on the battlefield.
4. Upgraded Firepower: The T-90M retains its formidable 125mm smoothbore gun and is capable of firing 9M119 Refleks anti-tank guided missiles, bolstering its offensive capabilities.
5. Crew Safety: Efforts to address the infamous "jack-in-the-box" vulnerability—a design flaw common to many Russian tanks where ammunition storage in the autoloader increases the risk of catastrophic explosions upon penetration.

T-90M: Russia's Premier Tank

As the most advanced operational tank in Russia's arsenal, the T-90M is a comprehensive upgrade over its predecessors. Its features include:

• Advanced Targeting Systems: Thermal imaging and an encrypted digital communications system for improved situational awareness.
• Secondary Armament: A coaxial 7.62 mm machine gun for engaging infantry and lighter targets.
• Mobility: Enhanced engines and drivetrain systems for better performance in diverse terrains.

Despite these advancements, the T-90M remains vulnerable to modern anti-tank weapons, particularly when its hull and turret ammunition stores are struck.

Production Amid Heavy Losses

Russia’s armored fleet has faced severe attrition during the Ukraine war, with an estimated 3,700 tanks lost—more than the initial invasion force in 2022. These losses stem from:

• Design Flaws: The vulnerability of Russian tanks to ammunition detonations has been a persistent issue.
• Inadequate Crew Training: Poorly trained crews often struggle to utilize the tanks effectively.
• Tactical Missteps: Improper deployment of armored units has led to avoidable casualties.

To offset these losses, Russia has ramped up production and modernization efforts. Approximately 231 T-90Ms have been built or upgraded since 2020, with recent batches containing 11 to 15 tanks each. However, nearly 100 of these tanks have been destroyed, abandoned, or captured, as per open-source analysis.

Reviving Old Tanks

In addition to producing new tanks, Russia has been reactivating older models from storage. These mothballed vehicles are refurbished with modern components or scavenged for spare parts. This practice underscores the strain on Russia's defense-industrial complex as it attempts to meet the demands of sustained conflict.

Future Prospects

The upgraded T-90M and T-72B3M tanks reflect Russia’s commitment to adapting its military hardware to contemporary warfare challenges. However, the success of these efforts will depend on addressing the structural and tactical issues that have hampered their effectiveness.

For Russia, these upgraded tanks are not just military assets but symbols of resilience in a prolonged and grueling conflict. Whether these advancements will tilt the balance on the battlefield remains to be seen.