Russia’s T-90M Proryv Tank Heads to UAE for IDEX 2025 DEFENSE NEWS TODAY

Russia will showcase its upgraded T-90M Proryv main battle tank at the IDEX 2025 defence exhibition in Abu Dhabi. This high-profile debut underscores Moscow’s push to attract international buyers despite Western sanctions. Crews recently painted the T-90M in desert camouflage and prepared it for transport, with Al Arabiya sharing the images.

A Showcase of Russian Military Technology

The T-90M Proryv represents the pinnacle of the T-90 series, featuring significant upgrades in firepower, protection, and targeting systems. Vladimir Putin, according to Al Arabiya, considers the tank to be the most powerful in the world. Its presence at IDEX 2025 underscores Russia’s ambition to maintain its foothold in the global arms market, particularly in the Middle East, a key region for Russian weaponry.

The T-90M has seen active use in Ukraine, where its combat experience could make it an attractive option for potential buyers. However, its deployment at IDEX is purely for exhibition purposes and aims to demonstrate its capabilities to international defence officials and military enthusiasts.

Key Features of the T-90M Proryv

The T-90M Proryv boasts several advanced features that set it apart from its predecessors. Its new turret design incorporates enhanced multi-layered armour, including the “Relikt” reactive armour system. This provides superior protection against both kinetic energy and shaped charge threats, significantly improving the tank’s survivability on the battlefield.

The tank is powered by a V-92S2F diesel engine, delivering approximately 1130 horsepower. This upgrade enhances mobility, offering a better power-to-weight ratio and a top speed of around 70 km/h on roads. The improved engine also ensures better cross-country performance, a critical factor in modern combat scenarios.

Advanced Fire Control and Armament

The T-90M’s fire control system has been upgraded with the “Kalina” system, which includes a multi-channel sight for the gunner with a thermal imaging channel. This allows for effective targeting in various conditions, including night and adverse weather. The commander’s panoramic sight enables independent target acquisition, enhancing the tank’s ability to engage multiple targets quickly.

Armament includes a 125mm smoothbore gun, the 2A46M-5, capable of firing a range of ammunition, from high-explosive to anti-tank guided missiles like the 9M119M Refleks. This versatility allows the T-90M to engage both armoured and soft targets at distances up to 5 kilometres. Additionally, the tank is equipped with a coaxial 7.62mm machine gun and a remote-controlled 12.7mm “Kord” heavy machine gun for defence against infantry and lightly armoured vehicles.

Enhanced Survivability and Protection

Recent modifications to the T-90M include the integration of the “Arena-M” active protection system (APS). This system uses radar to detect, track, and destroy incoming threats like anti-tank missiles and rockets before they impact the tank. The APS adds another layer of defence, significantly improving the tank’s survivability in combat.

Inside the crew compartment, improved ergonomics and safety features enhance crew survivability. The designers placed the ammunition in a separate compartment to lower the risk of catastrophic explosions if the tank takes a hit. They can also fit the tank with the “Nakidka” camouflage cover, which reduces its thermal and radar signature and makes it harder for enemy sensors to detect.

Operational Use and Global Market Appeal

The T-90M has been deployed in various conflicts, including Russian military operations in Ukraine. Despite its advanced features, it has shown vulnerabilities to modern anti-tank guided missiles and drones. These challenges highlight the ongoing arms race in tank warfare and the need for continuous innovation.

International defence exhibitions present the T-90M as a testament to Russian engineering and a competitive product in the global market. Its design and modifications aim to rival Western tanks like the German Leopard 2 and the American M1 Abrams, offering a cost-effective alternative for potential buyers.

Russia’s Broader Strategy at IDEX 2025

Alongside the T-90M, Russia is also showcasing a prototype of its Su-57 stealth fighter at IDEX 2025. The Su-57, Russia’s answer to fifth-generation fighters like the F-35 and J-20, has struggled to secure major export deals despite years of promotion. Its inclusion at the exhibition signals Russia’s broader strategy to leverage battlefield-tested equipment and state-backed deals to sustain its military-industrial complex.

Conclusion

Russia’s participation in IDEX 2025 highlights its determination to remain a key player in the global arms market. The T-90M PRORYV, with its advanced features and combat experience, is the centrepiece of this effort. As the defence industry evolves, T90M’s performance at IDEX could influence future sales and solidify Russia’s position as a leading arms exporter.