Russia’s second T-72 upgrade
The Russian MoD has ordered a comprehensive upgrade of its T-72B/B1/BA main battle tanks (MBTs).
The focus of the modernisation effort is to further enhance standards and increase the overall lethality and combat survivability of the tanks.
In late January a contract for upgrading an initial batch of 32 T-72s was announced that will be completed at the end of 2016. This has been followed by another contract in March which covers 154 more, set to be handed over until the end of 2017.
The upgrade, dubbed T-72B3M, is an enhancement over the original B3 standard that was introduced for
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
![NATO demonstrates equipment and prototype innovations in Crystal Arrow Exercise]()
NATO demonstrates equipment and prototype innovations in Crystal Arrow Exercise
The Crystal Arrow Exercise is being used by NATO as a way to put new equipment such as uncrewed ground and aerial vehicles into the hands of alliance users, particularly Latvian and Baltic forces.
-
![UK finally signs $1.35 billion British Army howitzer deal but with scaled-back numbers]()
UK finally signs $1.35 billion British Army howitzer deal but with scaled-back numbers
The deal will provide the British Army with five times the number of guns it currently operates as an interim measure, but it still leaves the force with comparatively fewer weapons than partner forces.
-
![NATO boosts uncrewed usage and shifts on concept of operations based on lessons learned from Ukraine]()
NATO boosts uncrewed usage and shifts on concept of operations based on lessons learned from Ukraine
The war in Ukraine remains a focus of procurement, concepts of operation, tactics and training for NATO countries. The Crystal Arrow Exercise in Latvia, ongoing until 15 May, is a reflection of this.
