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Impressive Presentation of Russian T-90MS Main Battle Tank at IDEX 2025 in UAE.
At IDEX 2025 in Abu Dhabi, the T-90MS, a modernized main battle tank from the Russian company Uralvagonzavod, makes a notable debut on the Rosoboronexport stand. This enhanced version of the T-90 boasts a range of features that improve its operational capabilities, making it an attractive option for the Russian Armed Forces as well as potential export customers.
The T-90MS is a modernized main battle tank from Russia. (Picture source: Army Recognition)
The T-90MS, initially unveiled at the Expo Arms in 2011, is part of the ongoing improvements to the T-90 series. Weighing in at 48,000 kg, the tank is designed to offer superior protection, enhanced mobility, and greater firepower compared to its predecessors.
The T-90MS incorporates several upgrades over previous models, particularly in the areas of protection, suspension, mobility, and armament. Its ability to operate effectively across a variety of terrains is reinforced by a 1,130 hp V-92S2F diesel engine, paired with an automatic transmission offering seven forward gears and one reverse gear. This enables the tank to reach a maximum speed of 60 km/h and a range of 550 km. Additionally, it is capable of fording water obstacles up to 1.8 meters deep without preparation and can navigate through up to 5 meters of water with USCE overpressure equipment.
The T-90MS is also fitted with torsion bar suspension and six hydraulic shock absorbers, ensuring stable and effective operation under the toughest combat conditions. The tank's design allows for unmatched mobility, even in the most rugged terrains.
The main armament of the T-90MS is a 125 mm 2A46M-5 gun, capable of firing a variety of ammunition types, including armor-piercing, high-explosive, and shaped-charge shells. The tank can carry up to 40 rounds of 125 mm ammunition and is also equipped with a 7.62 mm anti-aircraft machine gun mounted on a remotely operated turret, capable of targeting both moving and stationary targets.
In terms of protection, the T-90MS features modular explosive reactive armor (ERA) panels, which protect the sides and rear from threats such as projectiles and missiles. The turret and hull front are reinforced with RELIKT ERA armor, which is particularly effective against anti-tank missiles. For enhanced protection against nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) threats, the tank is equipped with the PKUZ-1A system.
The T-90MS also stands out for its high-tech fire control system. It is equipped with the Kalina system, which includes a combined panoramic sight for the commander with thermal and optical channels, as well as a laser rangefinder to measure distances with extreme accuracy. The dual-axis weapon stabilizer and the "hunter-killer" mode ensure optimal shooting accuracy, even while moving.
The tank also integrates a digital ballistic computer that automatically adjusts the parameters based on weather and topographical conditions, allowing for precise targeting at distances of up to 5,000 meters during the day and 3,500 meters under night-time conditions.
With the T-90MS, Uralvagonzavod has created a main battle tank that combines modernization with tradition, offering enhanced capabilities in an increasingly complex and dynamic environment. The presentation at IDEX 2025 not only demonstrates the continuous evolution of the T-90, but also highlights Russia's commitment to meeting the demands of modern armies in terms of protection, mobility, and firepower. This model could significantly enhance the Russian Armed Forces' capabilities while attracting new potential export clients.