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T-90MS

T-90MS

IndiaIndia
2019 - Present

The T-90MS (also known as T-90SM) is Russia's latest export variant of the T-90 main battle tank, representing significant improvements over the T-90S. Weighing 48 tons, it features a 125mm 2A46M-5 smoothbore gun with improved autoloader, V-92S2F diesel engine (1,130hp), and Relikt third-generation ERA. Length 9.63m (gun forward), width 3.78m, height 2.23m. Crew of 3. Features include Kalina fire control system, Sosna-U gunner's sight with thermal imaging, PK PAN commander's panoramic sight for hunter-killer capability, UDP T05BV-1 remote weapon station (7.62mm), GLONASS/inertial navigation, automatic transmission with steering wheel control, and removable turret bustle for 8 additional rounds. India approved procurement of 464 T-90MS (designated Bhishma Mk-3) in 2019.

Primary Specifications

Main gun
125mm 2A46M-5
Latest Russian smoothbore variant
Engine
1130 HP
V-92S2F diesel engine
Weight
48 tonnes
Modern protection with manageable weight
Speed
60 km/h
Standard MBT mobility
Range
550 km
Extended operational range
Crew
3
Improved autoloader system

Quick Summary

What's different?
Relikt ERA (vs Kontakt-5) provides protection against tandem warheads. Steering wheel replaces traditional T-series tillers for easier operation. Removable turret bustle adds 8 rounds in blow-out compartment away from crew. Air conditioning for tropical climates.
Why it matters?
Represents Russia's top export offering, competing with Western MBTs in international market. India's selection validates T-90MS as cost-effective alternative to Leopard 2 and M1 Abrams for developing nations.

Real-World Impact

1
India T-90 Bhishma Mk-3
464 T-90MS ordered in 2019 for $1.93 billion. Designated Bhishma Mk-3 in Indian service. First batch delivered May 2024. 83% indigenous content achieved through license production at HVF Avadi.
2
Egypt Local Assembly
500 T-90MS ordered in June 2020 including technology transfer for local assembly and manufacture in Egypt. Largest single T-90MS export contract.
3
Middle East Trials
T-90MS successfully completed trials in Latin America and Middle East (June 2020). Showcased at EDEX 2021 and IDEX 2025. Kuwait considering 146 units.
4
Combat Lessons Integration
Design incorporates lessons from Syrian conflict and updated based on Ukraine war observations. Enhanced protection against modern ATGMs and drones compared to earlier T-90S.

Additional Features

Armor
Relikt ERA
Other key features
Command version; improved armor and engine over Bhishma

FAQs

  • 1. How does T-90MS differ from T-90S Bhishma?
    T-90MS has Relikt ERA (vs Kontakt-5), 1,130hp V-92S2F engine, Kalina FCS, commander's panoramic sight for hunter-killer, automatic transmission with steering wheel, and turret bustle for 8 additional rounds. Significantly improved ergonomics.
  • 2. What is the Sosna-U sight?
  • 3. What protection does Relikt ERA provide?
  • 4. What remote weapon system is fitted?
  • 5. How much does T-90MS cost?
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