Developed as an evolution of the T-72, the T-90 has become one of Russia’s most recognizable and widely exported armored vehicles. The tank entered service in the 1990s and was designed to provide improved protection, firepower and fire-control capabilities without abandoning the mobility and logistical characteristics of Soviet tank designs. Its family includes Russian and export variants, culminating in the T-90M, which incorporates improved armor, Relikt explosive reactive protection, advanced sights, digital battlefield systems and a modernized 125mm main gun. An automatic loader allows the tank to operate with three crew members while maintaining a compact turret configuration. India is among the largest operators, with T-90S Bhishma tanks produced through licensed domestic manufacturing. Despite its modernization potential, the platform’s T-72-derived architecture creates limitations, particularly regarding ammunition storage and crew survivability. Experience from Ukraine has demonstrated that even upgraded tanks remain vulnerable to drones, loitering munitions and advanced anti-tank weapons. Future improvements are therefore expected to emphasize active protection, electronic warfare and counter-drone capabilities.
