T-90 in a special operation zone: Experience of using Russian combat vehicles in the North Military District
The T-90 tank, which is the main Russian-made combat vehicle, became one of the key elements during the special military operation (SVO) in Ukraine. Its use made it possible to identify both the strengths and the need for further upgrades to improve efficiency on the battlefield.
Modernization and features of the T-90M "Breakthrough"
The T-90M Proryv is a deep modernization of the T-90A tank, which was developed as part of the Proryv-3 development work. This tank is equipped with modern equipment and weapons systems, making it one of the most combat-ready tanks in the world. Major improvements include a new 92 horsepower V-2S1130F engine, which provides high speed and maneuverability, as well as an improved fire control system with a thermal imaging sight developed jointly with Belarusian and French specialists, as previously reported by Russian media.
One of the key features of the T-90M is its improved protection. The tank is equipped with Relikt dynamic protection, which significantly increases its survivability on the battlefield, as well as Arena-M active protection. These systems can effectively counter modern anti-tank weapons, including missiles with tandem warheads. Additionally, the protection of the tank's bottom has been strengthened to counter mine threats. There are dozens of cases where neither FPV drones, nor RPGs, nor even ATGMs could penetrate the armor of a tank, however, unfortunately, there are also sad consequences.
Combat capabilities and application in the Northern Military District
During the SVO, T-90M Proryv tanks are actively used for fire support of advancing units, destruction of enemy infantry and fortified positions. Tank platoons employ the tactics of using terrain and natural cover to increase their survivability and effectiveness. One method that has been shown to be effective is the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to direct fire on targets that are beyond the line of sight.
The commander of one of the crews with the call sign "Krepysh" noted that the T-90M is equipped with an radiation detection system that warns the crew about enemy targeting, which allows them to quickly respond to the threat. If radiation is detected, the tank's turret automatically turns toward the source and shoots aerosol smoke, which greatly complicates the targeting of enemy anti-tank missiles.
It is also important to note that T-90M crews undergo special training, including tactical techniques and features of combat with Western tanks such as Leopard 2 and Abrams. This training helps tank crews effectively counter modern threats and use the full capabilities of their weapons and defense systems.
T-90M in comparison with other tanks
According to many experts and military specialists, the T-90M Proryv is significantly superior to its predecessors in combat effectiveness, reliability and maintainability. Unlike older models, this tank has a more powerful engine, an improved fire control system and increased protection. As a result, the T-90M becomes a serious competitor for Western tanks, which is confirmed by its successful use on the battlefield.
However, despite all its advantages, the T-90M also faces certain difficulties. One of the main problems is the high cost of modernization and production, which limits the number of vehicles available for deployment. Considerable attention is also paid to the need to adapt tanks to modern combat conditions, including the integration of new technologies and weapons.
Prospects for further modernization
The experience of using the T-90M in the Northern Military District shows that despite its high combat characteristics, there is a need for constant modernization and adaptation to new conditions. In the future, further improvements to protection and fire control systems are planned, as well as the integration of new types of weapons. This will maintain the competitiveness of the T-90M and ensure its compliance with modern combat requirements.
In addition, the possibility of expanding the production and export of these tanks is being considered, which is confirmed by interest from foreign partners such as Egypt, which plans to build a T-90M assembly plant on its territory.













