First Batch of New T-90M Proryv Tanks Delivered to Russian Military

First of Russia’s new T-90M Proryv main battle tanks (MBTs) have been delivered to troops stationed in the Western Military District.

The tank is expected to take part in Russia’s annual Victory Day Parade on May 9. It features networked communication in which data can be shared in real time with other battle assets such as tanks, armored vehicles, helicopters and drones.

"First deliveries of the upgraded T-90M ‘Proryv’ tanks started in April to the Taman Division of the Western Military District," Army Commander Major-General Sergey Kisel said in a statement.

“These are fundamentally new combat vehicles, they got a new turret, a more powerful engine,” Kisel said.

The tank was developed as part of 'Proryv' (Breakthrough) R&D project. This is a deep modernization of T-90 tanks with increased combat and operational characteristics.

The tanks are outfitted with a new multi-channel sight, which allows the use of weapons at any time of the day.

The T-90M is said to have received a new turret that differs from the serial-produced module. Its armor features special anti-slip coating similar to that used on the latest T-14 Armata tank.

T-90M has a new combat tower module, which is equipped with a 125-mm gun of increased barrel endurance and accuracy. MBT is equipped with 12.7 mm caliber remote-controlled machine gun. The upgraded tank has a highly automated digital fire control system that searches, identifies, tracks and hits targets.

Earlier, representatives of Uravlvagonzavod reported that the T-90M tanks will be equipped with climate control.

According to the Russian state media, the T-90M is on the same level with latest Abrams, Leopard, Leclerc and Merkava versions in terms of weapons system, firepower, mobility and protection, while surpasses these tanks in drive range, transportability, fuel consumption and armor resistance.