T-90S Modernized at DefExpo 2012. Photo Credit: Vijainder K Thakur
Russia's T-90S(Modernized) or T-90SM main battle tank was a star attraction at the DefExpo 2012 in New Delhi from March 29 to April 1.
The T-90SM is an upgraded verision of the T-90S that equips the Indian Army and is currently being manufactured by Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF) at Avadi in Tamil Nadu under license from Russia.
The T-90SM was first unveiled at the Russian Arms Expo 2011 last September and is being displayed outside Russia for the first time.
Russia is optimistic that India will switch its production facilities to the manufacture of the improved version of the tank.
The Russians didn't just bring the T-90SM to New Delhi, their biggest weapons client, they also setup an elaborate stage to display the tank at the DefExpo.
The T-90SM features improved firepower and fire control system, improved TV surveillance capability for the commander and the gunner, better protection, and greater engine power with a smoother ride.
Improved Sighting and Fire Control
The sighting system includes separate panoramic displays for the commander and gunner presenting two-axis stabilized field of view using dual mode (day/night) CCD and thermal channels.
The fire control system can automatically track moving targets for targeting.
The commander can search for targets on his display, track and lock-on to the target and then electronically designate and hand over the target to the gunner. He can then resume searching for other targets.
The commander has the ability to engage the target himself, just as the gunner can search and engage targets independently.
The field of view of both the commander and gunner have been improved with almost total elimination of blind spots. The gunner can now help the commander search for targets.
At night the sighting system allows targets to be identified at distances up to 3.5km or more.
T-90SM Improved Field of View
Improved Gun
The tank's 2A46M5 125mm gun is touted to be more accurate at longer range than the 2A46M installed in the early T-90 series tanks and has a longer service life.
The main gun barrel is Chrome plated for improved life (1.7x), accuracy and more stabilized muzzle velocity. It has additional elements to take up play. At 2,500 kg it is 100 kg heavier than the gun of the T-90S.
The tank's ammunition is isolated in a special module to prevent detonation inside the vehicle in case of it being hit. Reloading, as well as other mechanical processes in the vehicle are fully automated.
A remotely operated anti-aircraft gun, mounted on a platform stabilized in elevation and azimuth, allows the commander to stay inside the tank and target aerial and other threat even while on the move.
Improved Mobility
The 48-ton tank powered by a 1130 hp V-92S2F engine has better power to weight ratio than the T-90 resulting in improved mobility.
The tank is equipped with an auxiliary diesel generator to provide power during halt and main engine idling. The auxiliary generator reduces thermal signature, fuel consumption and improves engine life.
The following is a video of the T-90S demonstrating its maneuverability at the annual military technology show at the Zhukovsky test centre near Moscow in 2012.
The T-90AM tank was the highlight of the show.
Improved Protection
In addition to the modular explosive reactive armor, the T-90SM features an electromagnetic protection system against mines with electromagnetic fuses and a aerosol screening system for protection against semi-active laser homing warheads.
Additional Reading
