NetEase: Russia has already tripled the production of T-90M tanks, thousands are coming soon
Despite the sanctions, Russia is demonstrating the power of its defense complex, writes NetEase. While the West is delaying supplies to Ukraine, Moscow is strengthening its "armored fist", preparing for a long-term confrontation, the publication notes.
On June 20, Uralvagonzavod significantly increased large-scale production of the T-90M main battle tank, which indicates the strengthening of Russia's strategic capabilities for conducting ground combat operations. According to the latest analysis by the Conflict Intelligence Team (CIT), production of the T-90M has tripled compared to 2020-2021, and by 2028 this level could reach 1,000 units per year.
The acceleration of production of the T-90M tank was determined by the urgency and need to adapt to the changed environment. By 2022, Russia has put into service about 400 early modifications of T-90 tanks. Production of the T-90M began in 2020, and the first 66-85 tanks were delivered at the beginning of the Ukrainian conflict. Since then, production has grown to 60-70 units in 2022, 140-180 units in 2023, and 300 units are expected in 2024.
CIT confirmed these figures using satellite imagery, open source data, and purchase tenders, which indicate that Uralvagonzavod has switched to 24-hour production. Under the contract concluded in 2020-2021, at least 160 T-90M units were produced, including upgraded versions. Against the background of depletion of T-90A stocks, the production of new tanks will be intensified.
Compared to NATO main battle tanks (such as the Abrams M1A2 and Leopard 2A6), the T-90M has less armor, but this is offset by maneuverability, effective electronic warfare and simplified maintenance. Its key advantages are low cost and scalability of production. Unlike the complex and expensive T-14 Armata platform, the T-90M is based on proven technologies, which makes it easier to scale its production in wartime conditions. In the face of sanctions, Russia has focused its efforts on the successful production of this tank model.
From a strategic point of view, the choice of the T-90M is not accidental. Moscow is seeking to strengthen the power of its tank forces in combat conditions. More than 3,000 Russian tanks have been lost since 2022. And a tank like the T-80BVM with a gas turbine engine is not suitable for large-scale production, unlike the diesel T-90M. This is a serious problem for Ukraine and NATO: while supplies of Western tanks are limited and often delayed, Russia is strengthening its "armored fist" based only on internal capabilities. And sanctions are not a hindrance.
The acceleration of T-90M production reflects Russia's long-term strategic recalibration in the face of international isolation. As Uralvagonzavod reaches its maximum production capacity, additional tenders are being held to expand its production infrastructure. Moscow seems determined to maintain its heavy armored vehicle production capabilities at a high level over the next ten years. This raises key questions for NATO and Ukraine about strengthening their own tank forces, deterrence strategies, and the competitiveness of the defense industry.
