The T-90M tank is one of the upgraded versions of the Russian T-90 main battle tank. It was completely enhanced to be able to face their NATO’s counterparts on the battlefield at the same or even superior level. This variant has all the high-tech combat features the M1 Abrams and the Leopard 2 have, such as more effective armor, electronic sensors, armament, and power plant. The T-90 in turn had been developed from the hull of the T-72 in 1992, by the Russian government after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The T-90MS is the export version of this upgrade, while the T-90M is the Russian Ground Forces advanced model.
The upgrade
The new innovative components of the T-90M include a new power plant, which consists of a V92S2F 12-cyl diesel engine, delivering 1,130 hp. It provides the new main battle tank with a maximum speed of 75 km/h and an operational range of 700 km. This is so because this variant weighs only 48 tons, which is light compared to the 70 tons of the M1 Abrams. As main armament, this Russian tank features a 2A46M-5 125-mm gun, which can also fire anti-tank missiles. The gun also features an auto-loader and a laser rangefinder.
The T-90M was also fitted with thermal imaging sight, infrared sensors as well as with inertial navigation system. On the inside, it was lined with kevlar-like material to protect the crew from spalling (the flaking/splintering of the steel). The armor consists of steel, ceramic rods, and Relikt ERA plates, which can stop both a kinetic energy penetrator (sabot) and shaped charge ammunition.
The T-90M in Ukraine (video-footage)
Below, the T-90M tank in dark grey anti-magnetic paint. Armor has been sharply upgraded on all sides, especially on the turret.
Below, a T-90M, with reinforced armor on the skirts
Below, a photo of T-90 tank taken around 2002. Notice the Kontakt-5 reactive armor bricks attached to the turret.
