New T-72 tank unveiled ahead of Victory Day parade

The upgraded T-72B3 version appeared during the Victory Day parade rehearsal at the Alabino training ground, outside Moscow.

New T-72B3 model in parade rehearsal

The Russian military first revealed the latest model of the T-72B3 main battle tank at the Victory Day parade rehearsal on April 5 outside Moscow. This version is equipped with many new defense systems, taken from the T-90A and T-90MS tanks, according to Livejournal.

The most prominent feature is the Kaktus explosive reactive armor blocks installed on both sides of the rear of the turret, replacing the tank's spare parts storage boxes. The rear of the turret, the rear of the vehicle and both sides of the engine are all equipped with cage armor, helping to block HEAT shells more effectively. The front of the hull is equipped with a Relikt explosive reactive armor module similar to the T-90MS model.

The side of the vehicle is also covered with a new steel-rubber armor, capable of detonating HEAT warheads before they hit the main armor. The undercarriage is adjusted to increase mine resistance compared to older T-72 versions.

New T-72B3 model at Alabino training ground, outside Moscow. Photo: Vitaly Kuzmin.

The offensive capabilities of this T-72B3 version have also been significantly improved, including the installation of the Sosna-U fire control system with thermal imaging glasses of the T-90MS. This system allows the T-72B3 to fight day and night, in all weather conditions.

Sosna-U also gives this vehicle hunter-killer capabilities. The commander can search and turn the gun towards the target, the gunner just needs to adjust the precise aiming line and fire. Meanwhile, the commander continues to detect new targets.

The vehicle uses the 2A46M5-01 main gun, allowing it to be equipped with modern anti-tank missiles such as the 9M119 Svir, 9M119M Refleks and many new generation kinetic energy ammunition. The previous T-72 series used old guns and automatic loading systems, unable to fire new ammunition designed by Russia.

According to VNE