Revamping Russian T-90 Tanks: Enhanced Defense Against Drones Is Coming!

Modernized T-90M Proryv (export version – T-90MS) tanks, produced by Uralvagonzavod (UVZ) under the Rostec state corporation, are set to feature an upgraded active protection system (APS) equipped with an innovative anti-drone mode to detect and neutralize aerial threats.

A representative from the Russian Ministry of Defense shared on the Rossiya-24 television channel, stating, “This year, we rolled out a program to enhance the APS software by incorporating an ‘Anti-Drone’ submode. Installation of an active protection system dedicated to directly countering drones, capable of neutralizing them as they approach, is currently in progress.”

The report detailed that fiber-optic drones will be supported by the Arena-M active defense system, which autonomously tracks and neutralizes hazards by launching interceptors at incoming anti-tank missiles or drones. This advanced system is already in place on the upgraded T-72B3A tank.

Previously, it was noted that a convoy of upgraded T-90M Proryv tanks was dispatched to Russian military forces.

President Vladimir Putin emphasized the prowess of Russia’s T-90 tanks, declaring them among the best globally during an interview with India Today in December.

Currently, Russia is promoting the sophisticated T-90MS version, unveiled for the first time at IDEX 2025 in Abu Dhabi. This advanced tank boasts the latest technologies and innovative solutions, including reactive armor, bar screens, electronic warfare capabilities against drones, and a differentiated armor principle.

As highlighted in the 2025 report by the Russian Center for Analysis of World Arms Trade (CAWAT), titled “Global Armored Vehicle Market: Winners and Losers,” Russia stands as one of the leading tank manufacturers and exporters worldwide, alongside China and the United States.

CAWAT noted, “Interest in Russian defense products remains robust. Attendees at the IDEX 2025 exhibition were particularly impressed by the T-90MS, which features enhanced protection against kamikaze drones, modern anti-tank systems, and hand-held anti-tank grenade launchers. Russian weaponry undergoes rigorous fire testing, which ensures continual advancements based on combat experiences against technologically advanced foes. For instance, numerous modifications have been implemented during the over three-year special military operation in Ukraine, not only for discontinued equipment but also for those in serial production, such as the T-90M. Consequently, nations traditionally reliant on Russia for military-technical cooperation can expect to receive combat-tested weapon systems of the highest caliber.”