Putin Praises Upgraded T-90 Tanks as ‘Top Contenders Globally’ Post-IDEX 2025
Russia’s T-90 Tanks: A Global Leader in Armored Warfare
President Vladimir Putin recently emphasized the T-90 tanks’ superiority during an interview with India Today. He noted, “India is producing our esteemed T-90 tanks, which truly rank among the best globally. Additionally, the renowned BrahMos missile, a collaborative effort between Russia and India, is primarily manufactured in Indian facilities.”
At present, Russia is promoting the advanced T-90MS model. This updated version was showcased for the first time at IDEX 2025 in Abu Dhabi, demonstrating cutting-edge technologies and new technical solutions. With reactive armor, bar screens, and sophisticated electronic warfare capabilities, the T-90MS is designed to counter modern threats like drones, antitank missiles, and grenades, as highlighted by Rosoboronexport CEO Alexander Mikheyev. Furthermore, it boasts a state-of-the-art fire control system and an integrated information-command system, substantially enhancing its combat effectiveness. New armor-piercing subcaliber shells, fragmentation rounds with remote detonation, and guided missiles significantly augment the tank’s firepower.
According to Uralvagonzavod (UVZ), the same tank that participated in IDEX 2025 was subsequently deployed with the Russian Army, fulfilling combat missions during the ongoing special military operation in Ukraine.
UVZ stated, “The vehicle that we showcased abroad was adapted based on extensive experience from the special military operation. It was dispatched to our troops in nearly the same configuration as demonstrated in the UAE.”
Earlier, UVZ CEO Alexander Potapov revealed that more than a hundred modifications had been made to the tank’s design since the inception of the special military operation. He remarked that the differences between the tanks from early 2022 and the current versions are significant, leading to two distinctly enhanced combat vehicles.
The Russian Center for Analysis of World Arms Trade (CAWAT) highlighted in its October report, “The Global Armored Vehicle Market: Winners and Losers,” that Russia ranks among the top three producers and exporters of tanks globally, alongside China and the United States.
According to CAWAT, “There is a sustained interest in Russian defense products. The T-90MS, showcased at IDEX 2025, has received accolades for its improved defenses against kamikaze drones, advanced anti-tank systems, and handheld grenade launchers. Russian military equipment undergoes rigorous fire testing, allowing for continuous enhancements informed by combat experiences against high-tech adversaries. Over the more than three-year special military operation in Ukraine, numerous updates have been made to earlier models, as well as ongoing production versions like the T-90M. Consequently, nations traditionally seeking military-technical cooperation with Russia can rely on receiving combat-tested armaments of the highest caliber.”
