Tank crews from the Western Military District put vehicles through their paces in a show dedicated to their professional holiday. Two 46-ton T-80 tanks did a “tank ballet” before the amazed audience.

Tank crews from the Western Military District put vehicles through their paces in a show dedicated to their professional holiday.

The proving ground near St. Petersburg was open to all.

The amazed spectators saw a “tank ballet” involving two 46-ton T-80 tanks, extreme driving, and the famous jumping stunt performed by one of these “flying tanks.”

The program included a mock tank battle accompanied by sound, light and smoke effects.

Apart from tanks, the pageant involved several infantry fighting vehicles (BMP-1), reconnaissance vehicles (BRDM-2), and an armored tow truck (BTS-4).

Russia celebrates Tanker’s Day on the second Sunday in September. The holiday was instituted in order to revive and develop Russian military traditions, to enhance the prestige of military service, and to acknowledge what the military specialists did to promote this country’s defense and security.

Modern armor is a combat arm and the main striking element of the Land Forces. Currently the Land Forces use T-72, T-80 and T-90 tanks and their modifications.

Tank crews participating in a tank show dedicated to the Tanker’s Day celebrations at the Sertovovo tank proving ground in the Leningrad Region.
