The T-14 Armata Russian main battle tank is the next generation. It is built on the Armata Universal Combat Platform. Read on to learn more about this tank. The tank's price, protection levels and replacement cost are all subject to rumors. This article will give you the information you need in order to determine if this is the tank for you.
Russian main battle tank
T-14 Armata, the main battle tank of Russia, is being hailed as an innovator. The tank's advanced capabilities were first demonstrated at the Victory Day parade in Moscow. However, the Armata was absent from the battlefields in Ukraine. Why?
The Armata is a high-tech vehicle with sophisticated sensors, a high degree of automation, and an active protection system. The Armata is expected to be in production for at least five years. The Russian army intends to purchase 2,300 Armatas in 2015 and 2020.
Cost
A T-14 Armata MBT costs around $812 million. The project has been underway since 2014, with the Russian Ministry of Defence ordering a number of them in 2017. Delivery was initially expected to start in 2018, but has been delayed due to funding problems, technical problems, and sanctions against Russia. Accordingly, the Russian Army should begin receiving supplies in 2019 and 2020.
Armata is comparable in performance and cost to existing MBTs. However, the major concern is its cost. Some sources believe that the Armata will cost up to three times more than a fully-upgraded T-72. Even though it isn't nearly as expensive as the K2 Black Panther's, the Armata's cost still puts strain on Russia’s modest defense spending.
Protection levels
T-14 Armata armor is weaker than on modern tanks. Its weakest point is the hull Bow, where crew members can be positioned. Even though its armor is relatively weak, active armor protection can make up for it. The entire tank could also be affected if the turret becomes damaged. The middle of tank, where the majority of the flammable cartridge is stored, is another weakness.
T-14 has advanced composite armor but its active protection system sets it apart. Its Afganit AAPS is capable to intercept both chemical as well as kinetic rounds. T-14 has more than one feature: the APS.
Rumours abound about its replacement
Rumours have swirled that Russia's military might not be looking to replace its T-14 Armata tanks with a newer model, but this is not surprising. The Armata cost twice what it was originally estimated, so Russian military officials were forced to reduce defense budgets and prioritise other projects. The Abrams could replace the Armata, which could be competitive with the Leopard 2 or Challenger 2.
The T-14 Armata armor tank has made quite an impact in the worlds mobility and armor. Its range is almost seven miles, nearly double that of the M1 Abrams. Its armor and speed have earned it a lot of praise, but there are some questions.
Future upgrades
While future upgrades for T-14 Armata tanks are still unknown, the Russian military has purchased more than 600 of the T-72B3s in recent years. These vehicles may serve as a stopgap and safety nets to the T-14. They suggest Russia will operate a mixed combat tank fleet for many more years.
Future upgrades for T-14 Armata vehicles are expected to increase the armor and protection levels of the vehicle. Additionally, the vehicle will be equipped with dual-manual control and systems to shield its electronics form electromagnetic weapons. These upgrades would also help improve the vehicle’s ergonomics.