Full-Scale Prototype Of The T-90S To Be Displayed At Defexpo

Tank-maker Rosoboronexport will display the upgraded T-90S main battle tank at Defexpo 2012 as the central event at the exhibition. For its demonstration ''Uralvagonzavod Research and Production Corporation'', JSC has set up a separate exposition with a full-scale prototype of the new tank in desert environment. The main component in the upgraded tank is the new turret which is fitted with a new automated fire control system, a more precise 125-mm gun, a remotely controlled 7.62-mm machine gun, and a new explosive reactive armour providing an enhanced level of counteraction to all existing antitank guided missiles, as well as additional protection from high-precision weapons, mines and field charges. The tank controllability is greatly improved due to installation of an automatic gearbox and a steering wheel sweep drive. The upgraded T-90S tank is powered by a 1,130-hp diesel engine. It is also fitted with an auxiliary diesel-generator unit which powers the tank at station, thus both saving tank fuel consumption and considerably decreasing its infrared signature. Tank designers have also managed to retain the traditional advantage of Russian tanks: small weight and dimensions. For the time being the upgraded T-90S is the best tank in the international arms market, judged by the combination of its characteristics. “Competition has been on the rise in recent years. This is an objective process since Indian market is a strong attraction for manufacturers. It should be added that its tender terms and conditions are very demanding. Therefore, the fact that we are winning a considerable part of them testifies to high quality of Russian products as well as to efficiency of our marketing strategy", said, Victor Komardin, deputy director general of Rosoboronexport. Already, there are plans to begin discussions during the exhibition upgrading programmes for the T-72 and T-90S tanks supplied earlier. Rosoboronexport proposes comprehensive modernisation programmes able to substantially improve basic parameters, such as firepower, protection and mobility.