Click to see full-size image. Via Telegram.
A Russian T-72B3M main battle tank equipped with the Arena-M active protection system (APS) has been spotted in the special military operation zone for the first time.
A photo showing the upgraded tank in an unspecified part of the special operation zone was posted to social networks on March 18.
The Arena-M was designed by the Kolomna Engineering Design Bureau to detect, track and intercept munitions coming from all aspects, including top-attack guided missiles like the American-made FGM-148 Javelin.
The APS uses a radar to detect incoming anti-tank rockets and missiles with a speed up to 700 meter per second from 50 meters. Upon detection, one of 22 defensive munitions is fired at the inbound threat, destroying it before it could hit the vehicle.
Last month, major tank manufacturer Uralvagonzavod, a part of Russia’s state-owned defense conglomerate Rostec, confirmed that its T-90M and T-72B3M tanks were being equipped with the Arena-M system. The announcement was made by a representative of the company and reported by Russia’s TASS news agency.
Beside main battle tanks, the APS can be also installed on BMPT tank support fighting vehicles and BMP-3M infantry fighting vehicles. It is still unknown, however, if the Russian military is considering outfitting the two vehicles with the system.
The Arena-M will significantly increase the survivability of Russian main battle tanks, thus the country’s armored formations will be able to conduct offensive operations more effectively.
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