Комплексний аналіз систем захисту основного бойового танка Т-90М «Прорив»

Abstract

The article presents the results of a comprehensive technical and comparative analysis of the protection systems of the russian T-90M «Proryv» main battle tank, based on the study of a captured specimen and laboratory tests of its individual components. The research aimed to identify the actual technical configuration of the dynamic, passive, and auxiliary protection systems, evaluate their efficiency using a zonal approach, and determine the real technological advancement of the russian tank protection school relative to previous generations.

The analysis revealed that the primary improvement of the T-90M compared to the T-90S lies in the implementation of the «Relikt» explosive reactive armor (ERA) with 4S23 explosive elements, which ensures expanded coverage of the upper hemisphere and improved protection against tandem-charge warheads. Laboratory studies of the 4S23 composition confirmed the use of an RDX-based explosive with polymer binder and plasticizer, providing higher thermal stability and reduced sensitivity to small-caliber impacts. The use of damping assemblies for mounting ERA blocks significantly reduces shock loads on the turret roof, increasing the vehicle’s structural survivability. Complementary systems such as the TShU-1-2M smoke-screening system and the «Nakidka» camouflage kit contribute to lowering detection probability in optical, infrared, and radar spectra.

Quantitative evaluation based on the zonal efficiency model demonstrated an integrated protection improvement of approximately 35–40 % relative to the T-90S, primarily due to the enhanced protection of the turret roof area. However, the study also indicates the absence of full-fledged active protection systems (APS) and onboard electronic countermeasures (ECM) in production T-90M tanks, which limits their resistance to modern high-precision threats such as top-attack munitions and FPV drones.

The developed zonal assessment methodology enables objective comparison of armored vehicles across generations, taking into account the frequency and criticality of hits on different projections and the contribution of individual subsystems. The findings provide a scientific basis for future R&D on integrated protection architectures combining active, dynamic, and passive elements to enhance the overall survivability of armored combat vehicles.