Russia ramps up tank production with modernized T‑90M, T‑72B3
UralVagonZavod has sent new batches of T-90M Proryv and T-72B3 tanks to the military, the company announced on its Telegram channel.
"These upgrades include electronic warfare systems to counter drones, anti-drone netting, and rubber-reinforced armor shielding critical components like the turret rear and engine compartment," reads the statement from UralVagonZavod. The Ukrainian agency Unian also notes that since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, the Russians have introduced about 200 different changes to the construction of these vehicles.
New technologies in tanks
Unian adds that to enhance the propaganda effect, the Russians showcased a Soviet design from World War II, the T-34, which "escorted" the modern machines during the delivery of additional batches of tanks.
UralVagonZavod does not disclose exactly how many units were sent to the front as part of the latest delivery. However, the company emphasizes that the factory responsible for the production and modernization of tanks is working around the clock to increase its efficiency.
It should be noted, however, that despite the modernization, the number of tanks delivered is not sufficient to compensate for 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 destroyed, captured, and damaged machines. The annual production of the T-90M Proryv is estimated at about 40 units.
T-90M Proryv and T-72B3 tanks
The T-90M Proryv is one of the most advanced tanks in the Russian mechanized forces. It features a modern 125 mm 2A46M-5 caliber gun and an upgraded Kalina fire control system. Additional protection is provided by the Relikt reactive armor, which protects both the turret and the vehicle's hull. The tank's armament is complemented by two machine guns of 7.62 mm and 12.7 mm calibers.
The second model sent to the front, the T-72B3, is a tank whose history dates back to the 1970s. Since then, this vehicle has undergone many modernizations, with the T-72B3 version standing out in particular. This version has gained recognition thanks to its modern Sosna-U sight and improved reactive armor. The T-72B3 model is equipped with a 2A46M 125 mm caliber gun and PKT machine guns of 7.62 mm and 12.7 mm calibers. Thanks to these modifications, its effectiveness on the battlefield has significantly increased.
