Russia's tank strategy: Modernization meets nostalgia
Uralvagonzavod announced on its Telegram channel that it has dispatched new batches of T-90M Proryv and T-72B3 tanks to the military.
"The tanks are equipped with electronic warfare systems, anti-drone nets, and rubber reinforcements installed on the turret as well as in the engine and gearbox compartments," reads the Uralvagonzavod statement. The Ukrainian agency Unian additionally reports that since the onset of the war in Ukraine, the Russians have made approximately 200 different modifications to the design of these vehicles.
New technologies in the tanks
Unian adds that to enhance the propaganda effect, the Russians showcased a Soviet-era design from the Second World War, the T-34, which "escorted" the modern machines during the handover of the latest batches of tanks.
Uralvagonzavod does not disclose exactly how many units have been sent to the front as part of the recent delivery. However, the company emphasizes that the factory responsible for the production and modernization of tanks is operating around the clock, thus increasing its efficiency.
Nevertheless, it should be noted that despite modernization, the number of delivered tanks is not sufficient to offset the losses suffered by the Russian armed forces during the conflict with Ukraine. Experts estimate that Russia has lost about 3,700 units (of various types), including those destroyed, captured, and damaged. The annual production of the T-90M Proryv is estimated at approximately 40 units.
T-90M Proryv and T-72B3 tanks
The T-90M Proryv is one of the most modern tanks in the Russian mechanized forces. It features a modern 125 mm 2A46M-5 cannon and an upgraded Kalina fire control system. The Relikt reactive armour, which shields both the turret and the vehicle's hull, provides additional protection. Two machine guns of 7.62 mm and 12.7 mm calibres complement the tank's armament.
The second model being sent to the front, the T-72B3, is a tank whose history dates back to the 1970s. Since then, this vehicle has undergone many upgrades, with the T-72B3 version being particularly notable. This version has gained recognition due to the modern Sosna-U sight and improved reactive armour. The T-72B3 model is equipped with a 2A46M 125 mm cannon and PKT machine guns of 7.62 mm and 12.7 mm calibres. Thanks to these modifications, its effectiveness on the battlefield has significantly increased.
