The Russian leadership has already seen a secret prototype of the new chassis nicknamed "Armata" and destined to become the main armored nucleus of the Russian army.
Three prototypes "Armata" have now entered the final phase of the tests, even if the production of the new tank could begin even before the development is completed.
"Armata" was conceived as a modular universal combat platform that could be used as a base for a series of combat vehicles. Although the new tank remains top-secret, from Uralvagonzavod they stated that the design incorporates elements seen in the "Object 195" and "Black Eagle" projects.
The T-95 (Object 195 - in the photo) should have been the fourth-generation Russian tank. Announced since the 1995, it was considered obsolete compared to the time when it was supposed to go into production. The Russian General Staff canceled the project in May of the 2010, preferring to allocate the available resources to modernize the T-90. The capabilities acquired with the T-95 have been implemented in the T-99 or "Armata".
The Black Eagle or "Chyorny Oryol" in Russian, has probably remained a prototype even if all the information concerning it is classified. We know that his frame is based on the T-80U, even if the hull is slightly longer. Its frontal armor is of a newly developed explosive reactive type. Its code name is "Kaktus" and is considered even more effective (especially for kinetic energy projectiles) than the current third generation reactive armor "Kontakt-5".
The Black Eagle also has a “Drozd-2” active protection system, much more effective than the “Arena” system. Finally, the “Black Eagle” is equipped with a 125mm 2A46 smooth-bore gun with “Atgm” capability (Anti-Tank Guided Missile, ed). No other information is known.
Within the 2020, Russian ground forces will receive 2300 "Army".
Meanwhile, more than fifty modernized T-72 tanks have been put into service with the 35a mechanized infantry brigade, deployed in eastern Russia.
The T-72B1 improvements include a new 840 horses engine and an advanced fire control system. The new 'Super Dolly Parton' armor increases the thickness of the front of the hull by 20 mm compared to a standard T-72.
The main weapon of the T-72B1, is an upgraded version of the 2mm 46A125M smoothbore gun. The new cannon improves the capabilities of high penetration ammunition. Finally, the ability to launch AT-11 Sniper guided anti-tank missiles has been implemented. Characteristics comparable to those of the much more modern T-90 tank.
Franco Iacch
