More T-72B3M MBTs delivered in Nizhny Novgorod region.

Another batch of T-72B3Ms of the latest variant arrived in tank formations in the Nizhny Novgorod region.

T-72B3M/B4 tank, a special version of T-72B3  that took part to the 2014 Tank Biathlon in Alabino (Picture source: Vitaly Kuzmin)

The main battle tank T-72B3M differs from the previous version with a more powerful engine developing 1,130 hp, a reliable set of Relict dynamic protection and higher operating characteristics. In addition, a number of new technologies were implemented in the modernized version. The driver received an automated control complex, which independently warns of damage and accidents, and the commander’s workplace is equipped with panoramic sight.

In total, in the framework of deliveries of new and modernized weapons, military and special equipment to the Western Military District in the second half of this year, about 1,000 more samples should arrive.

The T-72B3M, also called T-72B4, is an upgraded version of the T-72B3 which is the latest modernized version of the Russian-made main battle tank T-72. The T-72B3M project was unveiled for the first time to the public during the Final of International Russian army Tank Biathlon competition in October 2014. According to Russian military engineers, the T-72B3M is comparable to the more advanced T-90, but at a much lower cost. In March 2016, Russia planned to modernize 150 T-72 main battle tanks to the T-72B3M version. Since 2017, tank units of Western and Southern military districts of the Russian army have received T-72B3Ms. In June 2017, it was announced that the first modernized T-72B3M main battle tanks had entered service with the Belarus army.