russia's prized T‑90M tanks falter in ukrainian conflict
The Russians have reportedly lost over 150 T-90M tanks in Ukraine, which President Putin has proudly referred to as "the best tanks in the world." Military analyst Isaac Seitz argues that the T-90M is underperforming in Ukraine, where the realities of war have exposed its numerous flaws.
"The T-90 Proryv is without a doubt the best tank in the world, the enemy admits it," said Vladimir Putin during a visit to the manufacturing halls of defense company Uralvagonzavod. However, events on the frontlines in Ukraine tell a different story. Isaac Seitz, in his analysis for the 19FortyFive portal, notes that documented losses of Russian tanks have reached 3,000 units, with over 150 being T-90Ms.
T-90M tanks underperform in Ukraine
According to the analyst, the T-90M is the most advanced tank the Russians are using in Ukraine, but it falls short of being the best in the world. This is partly because it is based on the old T-72. While designers made some improvements, they did not eliminate all of the flaws. One notable issue is the carousel-style loading system.
"Inherited from older Soviet tanks, flaws—especially the risky automatic ammunition loading system, which can cause catastrophic explosions after a successful enemy hit—make the T-90M very vulnerable to drone attacks," wrote Isaac Seitz.
The Ukrainians have also highlighted the T-90M's shortcomings. Inspections of captured units revealed that, in addition to the outdated loading system, the T-90M has microelectronics with low resistance to damage and inefficient radio communication systems.
Russian tanks face harsh reality
Isaac Seitz also noted the T-90M's vulnerability to kamikaze drone attacks and tactical errors by the Russians. He believes tanks should be used with infantry and air support, noting many documented instances where lone Russian T-90Ms were sent into battle, making them easy prey for the Ukrainians.
"Even if the T-90M were the best tank in the world, a lone tank is a dead tank," the analyst wrote.
Among the T-90M's strengths, the analyst cites its modern thermal and night vision sights, which are sorely lacking in older Russian tanks, and its production cost. The Russians pay about $4.5 million for each unit, whereas a new American Abrams tank can cost up to $10 million. As a result, despite high losses, the Russians can deliver additional reinforcements to the front more quickly than the West is aiding Ukraine.
