Leaked files reveals Russia's T-80BVM, T-90S, T-90M tanks and Tor-M1 air defense system's capabilities.

On July 15, 2024, following the US leaks, two significant series of leaks occurred, revealing several documents related to critical Russian military systems and infrastructure, including the organization and personnel details of Moscow's air defense. After a thorough analysis of these documents, the Army Recognition editorial team confirmed that they include detailed manuals for the Tor-M1 air defense system, as well as the T-80BVM, T-90S, and T-90M main battle tanks. These vehicles are key components of Russia's military capabilities and are actively used in operations in Ukraine.
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After a thorough analysis of these documents, the Army Recognition editorial team confirmed that they include detailed manuals for the Tor-M1 air defense system, as well as the T-80BVM, T-90S, and T-90M main battle tanks. (Picture source: Vitaly Kuzmin)

The Tor-M1 (NATO reporting name: SA-15 Gauntlet) is a mobile, short-range air defense system designed to protect against aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and precision-guided munitions. It is used to defend critical military and civilian infrastructure from aerial threats. The system features advanced radar capable of tracking multiple targets simultaneously and guiding its missiles accurately. Enhanced variants, such as the Tor-M2, include improvements allowing engagement of targets while in motion.

The T-80BVM is an upgraded version of the T-80BV, featuring advanced fire control systems, a new autoloader, and improved armor protection. It is designed for high-speed operations and performs well in various terrains, including cold environments. These upgrades enhance its survivability and combat effectiveness.

The T-90S is the export variant of the T-90, combining advanced armor protection, a powerful 125mm smoothbore gun, and state-of-the-art fire control systems. The T-90M is an advanced variant with enhancements like the new Relikt explosive reactive armor, an upgraded engine, and a more advanced fire control system. These upgrades improve its performance in firepower, protection, and mobility.

These four vehicles are significant for the Russian military's operations in Ukraine. The T-90M, for example, has been deployed with enhanced anti-drone protections to counter threats from FPV drones and loitering munitions used by Ukrainian forces. Despite these upgrades, Ukrainian forces have successfully targeted and destroyed several T-90M tanks using advanced drone tactics and modern anti-tank weaponry.

The Tor-M1 systems are used to protect Russian ground forces and installations from aerial attacks, including UAVs and precision-guided munitions, which have become more prevalent in the conflict. The T-80BVM tanks, with their mobility and firepower, support rapid offensive and defensive maneuvers in the diverse terrain of Ukraine, providing strategic advantages in high-speed operations.

The exposure of these manuals could give adversaries insights into the operational capabilities and potential vulnerabilities of these systems. This information could be used to develop countermeasures or exploit weaknesses in the design and deployment of these vehicles and systems. The Russian military may need to reassess security protocols around their critical systems to prevent further leaks and mitigate the potential impact of this breach.

For defense journalists, these leaks are important as they provide detailed insights into the specifications and operational details of advanced military hardware. This information enables journalists to offer more informed and precise analysis, contributing to a better understanding of these vehicles, based on the most authentic information available. By following Army Recognition, readers can expect to receive detailed and realistic data directly sourced from the leaked Russian manuals used incrementally in future articles.