Marshal Khalifa Haftar's army, which controls eastern Libya, received a significant shipment of heavy armored vehicles. At a ceremonial parade in Benghazi in April 2026, Russian T-72B3M main battle tanks, equipped with modern anti-drone defenses, were unveiled for the first time.

According to Military Watch Magazine, the new T-72B3M modifications integrate improved anti-drone protection, including so-called "mangals" (anti-cumulative gratings installed on the tank's turret and hull), as well as electronic warfare (EW) systems for suppressing UAV control channels.

In addition to tanks, the Libyan National Army received a batch of BMP-3M infantry fighting vehicles. This model is equipped with the 688A-sb6-2KP additional protection package, which includes add-on explosive reactive armor, anti-drone grilles, and a standard electronic warfare system to counter FPV drones.

The delivery also included Belarusian BTR-70MB1 armored personnel carriers—a major upgrade of the Soviet BTR-70. This vehicle is equipped with a more powerful engine, modern observation devices, and enhanced armor protection.

The parade also showcased other equipment donated to Libya: BM-30 Smerch multiple launch rocket systems, Pantsir-S1 anti-aircraft missile and gun systems, and Spartak and Tigr armored vehicles. The weapons were reportedly delivered via an airlift using Il-76 military transport aircraft.