Modernization of T-72s in Azerbaijan New Firing Capabilities and Drone Protection at ADEX 2024.

At the ADEX 2024 International Defense Exhibition in Baku, Azerbaijan, the country's defense industry presented a modernized version of its T-72 tanks. This modernization program incorporates lessons learned from the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian conflict and reflects the need to enhance the firepower and protection of armored vehicles in response to evolving battlefield threats. This upgrade was unveiled in collaboration with Elbit Systems, an Israeli defense contractor specializing in advanced defense technologies, with whom Azerbaijan has previously cooperated.
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The tanks have been equipped with anti-cumulative screens and a protective lattice structure designed to shield the vehicle's upper parts from drone strikes and explosives (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The upgraded T-72A tanks are now equipped with a modern sighting system and a cutting-edge fire control system developed by Elbit Systems. These improvements increase the accuracy of fire and enhance the tanks' targeting efficiency. The introduction of autonomous and advanced fire control systems enables Azerbaijani forces to maintain operational superiority by engaging targets more effectively, both day and night. The new system integrates day, night, and laser channels, providing commanders and gunners with a comprehensive range of targeting tools. This not only streamlines the firing process but also optimizes crew interaction through a modern human-machine interface.

In parallel with these technological upgrades, the tanks are now equipped with enhanced protection, including modules from the Kontakt-5 reactive armor system, added to the turret and sides of the vehicle. Kontakt-5 provides better protection against various threats, including cluster munitions and kinetic projectiles. Although Azerbaijani designers chose to retain some elements of the older Kontakt-1 armor, likely due to its modularity and ease of repair in the field, the addition of Kontakt-5 increases the vehicle's overall survivability. The new modules, while similar to those used in Russian designs, have been shaped to cover a larger surface area and eliminate blind spots, particularly in the vulnerable area beneath the turret.

Additionally, the tanks have been equipped with anti-cumulative screens and a protective lattice structure designed to shield the vehicle's upper parts from drone strikes and explosives. These lattices, which extend across the tank's roof, offer increased protection from aerial threats while still allowing crew access through specially designed hatches.

The upgraded T-72A tanks are now equipped with a modern sighting system and a cutting-edge fire control system developed by Elbit Systems (Picture source: Army Recognition)

This modernization effort follows a logical strategy for the Azerbaijani military, which operates a large fleet of T-72 tanks, including the original Soviet-era T-72A and T-72B variants, as well as cost-effective upgrades such as the T-72 Aslan. Given Azerbaijan's experience with these tanks, the upgrade package allows for significant capability improvements while maintaining familiarity with the existing platforms. The upgrades aim to extend the operational lifespan of the vehicles and improve their resilience on the battlefield.

The timing of this upgrade coincides with a broader international trend of modernizing older armored platforms, particularly in response to lessons drawn from recent conflicts. Azerbaijan's approach, while not a complete overhaul, strikes a careful balance between enhancing key capabilities and implementing cost-effective solutions that can be easily repaired and maintained under combat conditions.

The unveiling of the modernized T-72 tanks at ADEX 2024 highlights Azerbaijan's commitment to improving its military capabilities. The collaboration with Elbit Systems has brought significant technological advancements to the country's armored fleet, providing increased firepower and protection to these proven vehicles. As regional threats evolve, this modernization program is expected to play an increasingly important role in ensuring the operational readiness of Azerbaijan's armed forces. The ability to implement these updates while leveraging existing resources allows Azerbaijan to maintain a competitive edge in the region.