At the end of 2024, the Uralvagonzavod tank production plant completed the delivery of two new batches of T-72B3M and T-90M tanks to the Russian Ground Forces. The corporation, part of the Russian state-owned Rostec consortium, fulfilled the orders placed by the Ministry of Defense for the past year while preparing to begin supplying new armored vehicles.
Although no regular deliveries of T-72B3M and T-90M tanks were recorded throughout the past year—aside from one batch provided in May—it is likely that Uralvagonzavod withheld further details. This aligns with the usual communication strategy of the state consortium Rostec, which also refrains from disclosing the number of armored vehicles delivered to the Ground Forces. However, it is clear that the Russian Federation has demonstrated its ability to replenish the losses suffered during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, now approaching its third year.
In this context, executives of the Russian state consortium highlighted the changes undergone by armored combat vehicles over the last three years. Alexander Potapov, CEO of JSC “Uralvagonzavod Consortium,” stated: “A tank from early 2022 and one from late 2024 are practically two different combat machines. For instance, in terms of the protection system, it was not initially designed for many of the challenges we faced from the first days of the Secret Military Operation. Necessary upgrades were quickly implemented, engineers worked day and night, and factory workers made modifications to vehicles already in production. This meticulous and responsible work by plant employees has been recognized with the eighth state decoration: the Order ‘For Labor Dedication.”
According to Potapov, tanks leaving the production facility in Nizhny Tagil undergo modifications and upgrades and are equipped with various systems that have become mandatory for the Russian Ground Forces. For example, in addition to existing drone cages and protection on T-90M tanks, they are reportedly being fitted with new Arena-M T09-A6-1 active protection systems (APS), a development showcased at the ARMY 2024 exhibition in Moscow.
The T-90M “Proryv” is the most advanced tank in service with the Russian Ground Forces. It features Relikt reactive armor (ERA), capable of countering the latest APFSDS and shaped-charge projectiles, along with the new 2A46-M gun paired with an autoloader for 22 rounds.
Meanwhile, the T-72B3M incorporates refinements and performance upgrades, such as a new V-92S2 engine delivering 1,000 HP. Additional features include a new sight system with digital screens for operators, a rear camera, Relikt ERA plates, R-168-25U-2 Akveduk radio equipment, Sosna-U sights for the gunner, and a new fire suppression system.
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