Units of the Vostok Battlegroup in the Donetsk People's Republic have received a new batch of upgraded T-72B3M tanks, the Russian Defense Ministry reported. According to the ministry, the tanks will be sent to the contact line after being tested.
In contrast to the tank's previous versions, the T-72B3M has a more powerful engine, an improved fire control system and reinforced armor. In addition, the T-72B3M has recently been fitted with special canopies to protect it from drone attacks.
So what in particular does this "monster of a machine" have?
The T-72B3M has a new engine with 1,130 horsepower, which is almost 300 hp more than the T-72B3.
The tank has been upgraded with a new 125-mm gun that offers improved ballistics and resources. It is also equipped with a Sosna-U sight, a digital ballistic calculating machine, and a panoramic sight at the commander's workstation. With these enhancements, the tank will be able to detect and destroy targets much faster.
The mechanic-driver's work is made easier by displays that enable the control of the tank's mechanisms, and that also produce an image from the rearview camera.
The tank's defense has also been beefed up with the addition of grids that shield it from cumulative ammunition, as well as dynamic protection known as "Relikt".
According to analysts, these enhancements sharpen the T-72B3M's effectiveness and better protect against contemporary threats that the vehicle faces on battlefield.
The Defense Ministry noted that the tank crews have already rolled out the vehicles on a trial run at training ranges in the far reaches of the Donetsk People's Republic.
The ministry also published a video of the new tanks in the area of the special military operation. The footage shows that the T-72B3Ms are equipped with special canopies for protection against drones.
In October 2023, reports revealed that the Uralvagonzavod Concern of Rostec State Corporation had started consistently installing these systems on T-72B3Ms being delivered to the troops.