After the appearance of “Armata” at last year ’s Victory Parade, the thoughts of many fans of armored vehicles were riveted precisely to the novelty of domestic tank building. At the same time, the Russian T-90S Tagil practically disappeared into the shadows. But in vain, since this tank is wonderful, which is clearly demonstrated by the latest Syrian events. In terms of security and combat effectiveness, it significantly exceeds even the latest modifications of the T-72. It only remains to be regretted that in our troops this equipment is almost less than that of foreign buyers.
Machine benefits
However, quite the lyrics. What is the T-90C, which until recently was the best machine of the armored forces of the Russian Federation? Firstly, at the first glance at the Tagil, it becomes clear that he was far from a simple T-72B3: an impressive birdhouse on the tower indicates the presence of a remotely controlled combat module, the neat and ubiquitous location of the dynamic defense plates hints at serious work in the field of increasing combat survivability.
The appearance of the car is very “sleek” and neat, the appearance of the “Tagil” is in no way inferior to modern Western cars. But to pay attention to the appearance would be foolish ... if the internal contents did not correspond to it.
"The continuity of generations"
This tank is characterized by following the basic canons of domestic tank building, including the smallest possible silhouette, a very small mass in comparison with all Western models, and excellent speed and maneuverability indicators. The ability of the T-90S (the characteristics of which we will consider below) to overcome many obstacles is immediately appreciated, forcing which heavier vehicles require preliminary engineering preparation of the terrain.
In fairness, it is worth noting that the "low silhouette", which was the "calling card" of our armored vehicles, in modern conditions provides few advantages. Gone are the days when tankers were aiming enemy tanks at a cannon (real cases of WWII). Today, all normal ATGMs can hit targets the size of a passenger car from a distance of several kilometers. So the size of the tank does not play a special role. Much more important is mobility: the photo “T-90S tank in flight” clearly demonstrates that this characteristic of the car is at its best.
The modification described by us is originally intended for export to the Persian Gulf countries and other states of the region, which have long been partners of the USSR and, subsequently, the Russian Federation in the field of arms trade.
Weapon system
Immediately tell you what exactly one of the most recognizable and respected tanks of the world is armed with. The 125-mm caliber cannon of the 2A46M-5 or 125-mm 2A82 model is the main weapon that allows firing with standard shells as well as homing missiles of the ground-to-ground-air class. So the car can hit targets on the ground, water, and can also be used for firing at low-flying air targets. The ammunition includes up to 40 shells and / or missiles, so the T-90S, the photo of which is in the article, is able to conduct a long battle.
An auxiliary weapon is a 6P7K machine gun (PKTM). Designed to destroy enemy infantry located in the dead zone of the main gun. Since it is paired with a cannon, you can conduct sighting fire. Its standard ammunition includes 2000 rounds of 7.62x54R. All these weapons are installed on the turret of a completely new layout, which has little in common with that of the "old man" T-72.
Much more interesting is the remotely controlled module T05BV-1, which includes another 6P7K machine gun (PKTM). Ideal for operations in urban environments, as it allows the destruction of enemy infantry, located much higher than the standard weapons fire zone. Ammunition includes 800 rounds of 7.62x54R.
Differences from the T-72 and similar features
The T-90S model is a logical continuation of the ideas laid down in the T-90A tanks. But Tagil has enough differences from them, as well as from the T-72. The following nuances are immediately evident:
- A completely new tower, which finally has a developed aft niche for storing additional shots.
- Brand new gun model 2A46M-5 (export version). It is incompatible (!) In terms of ammunition with the 2A82 model, which is generally prohibited for export sales.
- The Relikt dynamic defense, which proved to be excellent in combat conditions.
- There are no Shtor and Arena complexes, since the T-90S is an export version on which such systems are not installed for reasons of economy. However, wealthy customers from the UAE receive these systems.
- For the first time, the domestic tank finally received factory lattice screens, supplemented by DZ modules. This system prevents the destruction or damage of the engine when penetrating armor with a cumulative jet.
- Previously, tanks of this type were equipped with an anti-aircraft gun based on a 12.7 mm NSVT machine gun. It was replaced by a module based on a 7.62 mm 6P7K machine gun. The reason is simple: you still can’t shoot down a modern aircraft from a machine gun, and 7.63 mm of weapons, to which you can carry a significantly larger ammunition, will be enough to deal with smaller targets.
- A noticeably improved engine V-92S2F2 (1000 l / s) of a robotic gearbox. In 2012, Ukrainians offered India their modification of the T-90S: 6TD 3 (engine) was supposed to be the main "highlight", but nothing is known about the real advantages of this motor.
- To power the combat modules, an additional engine is located in an armored box.
- System (SEMZ) SPMZ-2E, protecting the tank from mines with electromagnetic fuses.
Other features
What else can this car boast of?
- The case is almost unchanged taken from the old T-72.
- The chassis also migrated from the T-72.
- The new SUE Kalina is noticeably better than the Irtysh with which the T-90A was equipped.
- The power reserve of the T-90S is 550-650 km. In the second case, external tanks are required.
The security of the new tower
Some "experts" believe that the tower of this tank is noticeably more vulnerable in comparison with the T-80 or even the T-72. As arguments, they give an increase in its size. But in practice, everything turns out quite the opposite.
Achievement of increased combat survivability was achieved through adequate deployment of ammunition. Firstly, additional shots are placed in a niche with kick panels. Secondly, the automatic loader itself is at the level of the rollers, and therefore its defeat in combat conditions is unlikely. In this, the T-72/90 tanks compares favorably with the T-64/80, in which the shells are located vertically along the perimeter of the tower. Penetration of tower armor in these vehicles with a probability of more than 90% causes the detonation of the entire ammunition. From the stern, the T-90 tower is reliably protected by a massive tool box.
Since the T-90S has already been in combat (Syria), its high security is fully confirmed in practice.
Benefits of the new SLA
The SLA of the domestic tank provides visual detection and tracking of enemy targets at distances up to five kilometers. Unlike previous modifications, both the commander’s sight and the gunner’s devices can be simultaneously activated on this tank. Significantly increased opportunities for viewing the battlefield: in motion, on the go, in complete darkness.
For the first time in the practice of domestic tank building, a mode of interaction between several vehicles, automatic tracking of targets, and automatic calculation of the most optimal shooting mode were used, for which the electronics are guided by temperature, humidity, wind speed and other environmental factors.
System duplication
If in combat conditions the SLA completely fails, or the onboard power supply was damaged as a result of enemy fire, the crew can use an alternative firing mode, for which duplicate sights are intended. Unlike the previous types of domestic tanks, it was the T-90S tank that received standard equipment for jamming, radio reconnaissance, and a jamming system to repel the attacks of enemy ATGMs.
Other advantages
All projections of the tank received significantly more pronounced protection against hits from anti-tank guns, anti-tank systems and grenade launchers. The designers envisioned the prospects for further modernization of this equipment, which is expressed in the modularity of the entire structure: if such a need arises, then you can quickly upgrade the tank without spending a lot of money for this.
So the T-90S, whose exports are constantly growing, is a very promising machine, which for a long time will not lose its significance in the global arms markets.
High mobility
Mobility and handling were significantly enhanced by installing a more powerful diesel engine and robotic gear shift. The latter circumstance is a huge relief for driver mechanics, especially in the hot climate of the Middle East theater. By the way, the power plant of the modification described by us is originally intended for operation in extremely hot and dry climates, which is especially appreciated by customers. So the T-90S tank, the characteristics of which provide for the use of the machine in such specific conditions, will certainly be in demand for a long time to come.
A high combination of technical and combat characteristics allows you to fight on the T-90 in a variety of conditions, regardless of climatic factors, time of year or day. In many ways, experts explain the improvement in mobility by the presence of a steering wheel on this tank instead of old levers and a robotic gearbox, which makes the Russian T-90S rocket-cannon tank one of the most convenient in its class.
All these “luxuries” make it possible to simplify the training of the driver and, at the same time, make the control of a heavy machine better. On the T-90, the driver can focus on the road and quick maneuvering in battle. As the experience of the first Chechen campaign showed, this is important. So the T-90S "Tagil", the characteristics of which we are considering, clearly should have greater survivability.
Some disadvantages
As you know, in the world there is nothing perfect. There are no perfect tanks. Among the disadvantages of the machine we are describing, in particular, include the tight layout. No, in some ways this characteristic is good (smaller in size and weight), but when the armor breaks through with a cumulative jet, it is almost guaranteed that something from the equipment will be hit or someone from the crew will suffer.
In addition, the first modifications had a very bad SLA. Until relatively recently, they coped with situations by buying components ... from France. By the way, similar equipment was also installed on the T-72B3. How the situation is now is unknown. Given that the T-90S tank, the characteristics of which were briefly covered in the article, is one of the most advanced domestic vehicles, such a dependence on imported components is not entirely clear.
Other weaknesses
Finally, a really strange situation with shells remained. On the one hand, some of them are located in the feed niche, which is good. On the other hand, the designers completely ignore the opinions of the tankers themselves and the experience of both Chechen campaigns, continuing to stubbornly push “extra” shots to all corners of the inhabited squad. One more or less “successful” grenade - and the whole crew is guaranteed to come to an end. Of course, an increase in BC is a good thing, but why step on an old rake?
It is also known that early modifications often broke torsion bars on the rear rollers. How are things with this on this version is unknown. In any case, the absence of complaints from buyers allows us to conclude that this phenomenon has been eliminated. Given that the T-90S, which is exported to several countries, is willing to buy, it is unlikely that customers would ignore such a flaw.
Main conclusions
At the present stage of development, the evolution of all tanks and their means of destruction goes in two different directions: armored vehicles are constantly being improved in their qualitative development, while the developers of anti-tank systems focus on overcoming their protection systems. That is why 10-15 years ago it was believed that tanks would soon become unnecessary on the battlefield. However, the American experience in Iraq proved that the assault on fortified areas in cities without tanks is impossible: only under the guise of heavy vehicles can infantry quickly move inside enemy positions without spending a lot of time to overcome firing points.
So the T-90S tank is a kind of compromise between necessity and reality. He is good as a massive tank for a large country with a draft army. With the apparent simplicity of the foundation, the machine can be upgraded, as there is potential for this. In addition, on the basis of this machine, you can create dozens of varieties of auxiliary and military equipment. So the T-90S is the “star” of the modern tank world.