Russian tanks blessed for battle: Unmasking the T‑80BWM's flaws
The Russian Uralvagonzavod plants have announced another delivery of tanks. This batch includes T-80BWM tanks that were additionally blessed before being sent to the front. Here's what characterizes these tanks.
Unfortunately, the exact number of units produced and delivered remains unknown. However, the video below suggests there are three units. Interestingly, they were also blessed by someone resembling a clergyman from the Orthodox Church. Despite this, the blessing is unlikely to change the increasing number of Russians who are openly referring to their tanks as "steel coffins."
T-80BWM tanks - the strengthened armored spearhead of the USSR
The T-80BWM tanks are among the newest additions to the Russian arsenal, with production starting in 2017. Before the invasion of Ukraine, Russia possessed about 200 of these units, but the current losses of identified units in photos or videos exceed this number.
It's important to note that these are not brand-new machines; their production involves the thorough modernization of older models like the T-80BW or older versions. The process also involves stripping strategic scrap yards of post-Soviet shells that are in increasingly poor condition.
The T-80BWM is a modernized version of the T-80BW, which itself evolved from the T-64 tanks. The modernization includes a comprehensive overhaul and the adaptation of the ammunition storage to accommodate longer APFSDS projectiles. Additionally, these tanks are equipped with an electric turret rotation mechanism and dual-layer Relikt reactive armor, which safeguards against advanced projectiles with a tandem warhead. Experience from the conflict has also led to additional coverage with Kontakt-1 reactive armor blocks and the installation of a cage above the turret.
The most significant element of the modernization is the advanced Sosna-U fire control system, which uses third-generation thermal imaging cameras. Initially, these cameras were Catherine-FC models produced by the French company Thales, but they have now been replaced with other options.
Interestingly, it's worth noting that T-80 tanks are better armored than T-72B tanks, which serve as the basis for T-90M tanks. However, they share a critical flaw: the unisolated ammunition storage in the hull. As a result, any breach of the armor, including near the turret ring, carries a high risk of a powerful explosion, often resulting in the turret being torn off and the death of the entire three-person crew.
