Russian forces have been reinforcing their T-90M tanks with additional protective elements, from anti-drone cages to reactive armor blocks.
Turned Out to Be Bricks
However, recent reports from Bulgarian Military reveal that some of these so-called upgrades are not what they appear to be.
Social media images show a destroyed T-90M tank, where what was supposed to be reactive armor blocks turned out to be ordinary bricks.
The T-90M, one of Russia’s most advanced tanks, appears compromised by these fake upgrades.
According to Bulgarian Military, “the tank, intended to be a fortress on the battlefield, was sabotaged before even reaching the front lines.”
Key components of its Relikt reactive armor, particularly on the turret and frontal hull, were reportedly missing, severely reducing the tank’s battlefield survivability, according to WP.
Under-Protected Against Air Strikes
It remains unclear whether these gaps in protection are due to budget cuts or other issues. Either way, such flaws leave the T-90M vulnerable to modern battlefield threats, including anti-tank missiles, mines, and drones.
Ukrainian forces, which have analyzed captured T-90M units, report that Russian tanks are often under-protected against precision strikes.
The T-90M "Proryv," introduced to Russian service in 2020, boasts advanced features, including a 125mm 2A46M-5 gun and the Kalina fire control system, designed to increase targeting accuracy.
It also incorporates modular Relikt reactive armor, which is intended to shield the hull and turret from various attacks. Powered by a 1,000-horsepower engine, the T-90M can reach speeds of up to 65 km/h, making it one of Russia's most mobile tanks.
Despite its modern features, the T-90M has faced criticism for several weaknesses, especially from the Ukrainian military.
Analysts have found that the tank's electronics are vulnerable to damage, and many technical components are based on outdated models, like the T-72.
Communication issues have also been reported, further complicating operations for Russian crews. Although touted by Vladimir Putin as “the best in the world,” the T-90M has frequently struggled against Ukrainian drones and other advanced weaponry.
