How the T-90M Stands Against NATO Tanks in 2025: Russia’s Power vs the West
Published by Military Update | April 2025
Image description:Russia T-90M tank in parade
The Russian T-90M "Proryv" is often described as Russia's most capable main battle tank in active service. In a world of rapidly advancing Western armored capabilities—particularly from the likes of the Leopard 2A7, Abrams X, and Challenger 3—how well does the T-90M hold its ground in 2025?
🇷🇺 Overview of the T-90M Proryv
The T-90M is the latest evolution of the T-90 family, integrating lessons learned from conflicts in Syria, Ukraine, and other modern battlefields. It features upgraded armor, advanced fire control systems, and a new 125mm 2A46M-5 smoothbore gun, giving it a significant edge over its predecessors.
- Engine: V-92S2F diesel engine (1,130 hp)
- Armor: Relikt ERA + composite
- Fire Control: Kalina system
- Main Armament: 125mm smoothbore cannon + ATGM capability
- Battle-tested in Ukraine and beyond
🛡️ Armor and Survivability: How Tough is the T-90M?
The T-90M’s survivability is bolstered by the Relikt Explosive Reactive Armor, offering better protection against tandem-charge warheads and kinetic penetrators. However, Western tanks like the Leopard 2A7 and Challenger 3 use modular armor systems that often include passive and reactive layers, as well as Active Protection Systems (APS) like Trophy.
Comparison:
- T-90M: Relikt ERA + optional soft-kill APS
- Leopard 2A7: Modular composite + optional Trophy APS
- Abrams X: Explosive armor + Trophy + AI defense systems
- Challenger 3: Modular armor + new generation ERA
🎯 Firepower: Can the T-90M Hit as Hard?
The 125mm gun on the T-90M can fire standard APFSDS rounds, high-explosive, and anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs). While lethal, Western tanks now field longer barrels and advanced kinetic rounds that penetrate deeper and fly faster.
The T-90M’s main advantage? Its ability to launch ATGMs like the Refleks system, hitting targets up to 5 km away. This gives it an edge in long-range duels in open terrain—if it can spot first.
📡 Electronics and Targeting
Russian tanks traditionally lagged in sensors and digital integration. The T-90M closes the gap with the Kalina fire control suite, thermal imaging, and improved battlefield management systems. Still, it lacks full sensor fusion, AI targeting, and network-centric capabilities found in the Abrams X and Leopard 2A7.
🛠️ Maintenance and Logistics
The T-90M is cheaper, easier to maintain in rugged environments, and better suited for mass production than its Western rivals. However, this simplicity can come at the cost of long-term durability and modular battlefield upgrades.
🧭 Battlefield Role Comparison
- T-90M: High mobility, fast production, ideal for large-scale offensive operations
- Abrams X: High-tech, multi-domain integration, slower deployment
- Leopard 2A7: Balanced approach, NATO integration, proven logistics
- Challenger 3: Direct-fire support, defensive dominance
🌐 Geopolitical Implications
The T-90M is not just a weapon—it’s a statement. In 2025, as Russia projects strength across Eastern Europe and beyond, the tank symbolizes Moscow’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces and asserting itself on the world stage.
NATO nations continue to respond with advanced platforms and joint readiness, leading to a technological arms race. In terms of numbers, Russia fields more tanks; in terms of tech, NATO still leads.
🏁 Conclusion: Can the T-90M Keep Up?
Yes—and no. The T-90M is a potent force and can outperform many older NATO MBTs. But when facing new-generation tanks like the Abrams X or Leopard 2A7, it shows its limitations. That said, with numbers, speed, and doctrine, Russia could still overwhelm in asymmetric environments.
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📌 Frequently Asked Questions
Is the T-90M better than the Leopard 2A7?
In some scenarios, yes. The T-90M offers missile firepower and mobility. However, the Leopard 2A7 has better electronics and protection.
Can the T-90M defeat the Abrams X?
Unlikely in a one-on-one match. The Abrams X is newer, smarter, and better protected. But the T-90M’s strength is in numbers and field tactics.
Which countries use the T-90M?
Primarily Russia, though export versions may be offered to allies such as Belarus or Syria.
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