The T-90 is a third-generation Russian main battle tank, developed in the post-Cold War era to meet modern combat requirements. It was conceived to replace older T-80 and T-72 models after the T-72’s underperformance against American M1A1 tanks during the Gulf War. Today, it is one of the most advanced tanks in service with both the Russian and Indian armies.
History and Operators
The T-90 entered service in 1995 and quickly became a staple in Russian armored forces. In India, it is produced under license as the Bishma, with plans to manufacture over a thousand units.
Key operators include:
- Russia: 436 T-90A and 307 T-90S
- India: Bishma variant
- Azerbaijan: 200 T-90SA
- Algeria: 305 T-90SA and 310 T-90S
- Turkmenistan
Design and Technical Features
Based on the T-72BM, the T-90 incorporates advanced technology from the T-80, such as the 1G46 fire-control system, thermal imaging cameras, Kontakt-5 explosive reactive armor, and more powerful engines. Its low profile and compact interior volume are characteristic of Russian tank design.
Physical Specifications
- Weight: 46.5–50 tons
- Length: 9.53 m (with gun), 6.86 m (hull only)
- Width: 3.37 m
- Height: 2.23 m
- Internal Volume: 11.04 m³ (total), 1.85 m³ (turret)
- Crew: 3 (driver, gunner, commander)
- Engine: 840–1000 hp diesel variants
- Speed: 65 km/h (road)
- Range: 375 km; up to 550–650 km with auxiliary fuel
- Suspension: Torsion bar
- Power-to-Weight Ratio: 18–20 hp/ton
Armament and Defense Systems
The T-90 is equipped to handle modern battlefield threats. Its main armament is the 2A46M4 125 mm smoothbore gun with full stabilization, allowing accurate firing on the move. It can also launch 9M119M Refleks-M anti-tank guided missiles. Secondary weapons include a 12.7 mm NSVT anti-aircraft machine gun and a 7.62 mm PKT coaxial machine gun.
Advanced defensive systems include:
- Kontakt-5 reactive armor
- Shtora-1 infrared and laser jamming system
- 82 mm 902B smoke grenade launcher
Performance and Survivability
The T-90 competes effectively with Western tanks in terms of speed and armor protection. Indian testing showed the T-90’s performance comparable to the American M1A2, with some metrics surpassing the Leopard 2A6. Additionally, it is significantly more cost-effective than most Western main battle tanks.
