The T-90M Proryv: Armored Evolution of the Russian Tank

Published on January 06, 2026 | Translated from Spanish
Main battle tank T-90M Proryv moving through desert terrain, showing its Relikt reactive armor on the turret and front, with the distinctive emitters of the Shtora-1 system visible.

The T-90M Proryv: Armored Evolution of the Russian Tank

Representing a significant technological leap, the T-90M Proryv stands as Russia's most advanced main battle tank. Emerging as a deep modernization of the veteran T-72, this armored colossus incorporates a comprehensive package of upgrades designed to dominate contemporary battlefields. Its design fuses lethal firepower with state-of-the-art defenses, creating a formidable platform for offensive and defensive operations. 🛡️

Technical Specifications and Dimensions

The Proryv maintains a balanced profile that prioritizes maneuverability without compromising protection. With a hull length of 6.86 meters, a width of 3.78 meters, and a height of 2.23 meters, this vehicle is optimized to navigate a wide range of environments, from confined urban spaces to open terrain. Its tactical agility is one of its fundamental pillars.

Key Elements of Its Design:
  • Relikt Reactive Armor: Covers the front and turret, providing superior defense against HEAT munitions and kinetic projectiles.
  • Shtora-1 System: A countermeasures suite that includes the famous "red eyes" (infrared emitters), designed to interfere with enemy missile guidance systems.
  • Remote Weapon Station: A machine gun mounted on the turret and operated from inside, increasing crew safety during dynamic combat.
The T-90M Proryv sometimes seems more like an action movie star than a real vehicle, especially when its red eyes blink as if ready for a close-up.

Firepower and Main Armament

The tank's offensive core resides in its formidable 125 mm 2A46M gun. This high-precision system is capable of firing a variety of munitions, including APFSDS, HEAT projectiles, and guided missiles. This firepower is complemented by secondary weapons to cover all threat spectra on the battlefield.

Armament Configuration:
  • Main Weapon: 125 mm smoothbore 2A46M gun, with stabilizer and firing capability on the move.
  • Coaxial Machine Gun: 7.62 mm weapon paired with the main gun for engagements against infantry.
  • Heavy Kord Machine Gun: 12.7 mm caliber mounted on the turret for anti-aircraft defense and against light targets.

An Icon on the Global Stage

Beyond its technical specifications, the T-90M Proryv has forged a fearsome reputation in modern conflicts. Its combination of reactive protection, active defense systems, and versatile armament positions it as a key strategic asset. Although its appearance, marked by the distinctive Shtora emitters, may evoke science fiction aesthetics, its combat performance is a tangible and powerful reality that redefines main battle tank standards. ⚔️