Russian T‑90S tanks face destruction in Ukraine conflict

Ukrainians have reported the destruction of additional Russian armored vehicles, including the rarely seen T-90S tank. These tanks were originally not intended for frontline deployment. Let's delve into the history and capabilities of this machine.

Ukrainian military and political commentator Oleksandr Kovalenko discussed the Russians' losses in the Donetsk region on his Telegram profile. He explained how the T-90S tanks ended up in Ukraine. Previously, analysts had suggested that the Russians changed their strategy and sent available T-90S tanks to make up for numerous losses.

"The T-90S is the export version of the T-90, with an interesting history. They were mainly sent under contracts to India as the T-90S Bhishma. However, some tanks did not pass acceptance due to poor assembly quality and other defects. Over time, a number of these tanks accumulated and, beginning in November-December 2022, they started being sent to the front," explained Kovalenko.

In terms of equipment, the T-90S tank is quite similar to the standard T-90 used by the Russian army. It has a 1,000-horsepower engine, allowing it to reach a maximum speed of 40 mph. Its offensive capabilities rely on the 125mm 2A46M-3 smoothbore gun, along with 7.62mm and 12.7mm machine guns.

The T-90S, compared to the original, is somewhat stripped down. It lacks the TszU-1 Shtora-1 electro-optical self-defense system but has space for reactive armor.

It's unclear how many T-90S units have reached the front to support Russian forces. However, Kovalenko notes that the destruction of each such tank is a rare event.

Various sources estimate the total number of destroyed T-90S tanks in Ukraine to be between 10 and 15 units. From the Russian perspective, losses of all T-90 family tanks are significantly higher, with at least 150 units already destroyed.