Analysis of Russian Armored Vehicle Dynamics Post-Invasion of Ukraine

Overview of MBT Inventory Changes

Recent assessments indicate significant shifts in the composition and operational deployment of Russia’s main battle tanks (MBTs) since the onset of the Ukraine conflict. An analysis utilizing data from the Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD), along with various unofficial Russian and Ukrainian sources, highlights fluctuations in the fleets of Russia’s leading MBT models both pre-invasion and in the projected landscape for 2025.

• T-80BVM Deployment:

  • Prior to the invasion, only four units were reported to operate the T-80BVM model.
  • As of September 2025, approximately 23 units have been documented to possess this variant in their inventory.

• T-72B3 Family Strength:

  • Initially, there were 35 units equipped with the T-72B3 family, a number which expanded to 53 units by September 2025, solidifying its status as the predominant MBT within the Russian Armed Forces. Units can range from battalions of 30-40 tanks to smaller company or platoon compositions.

Tank Fleet Composition Over Time

Trends in MBT Production

A recent chart demonstrates that the number of T-72B3 family tanks has decreased from 1,200 in early 2022 to 1,100 by September 2025. In contrast, T-90M numbers have increased from 50 to 500, while T-80BVM units grew from 100 to 280 within the same timeframe.

• Current fleet distribution:
  • T-72B3: Approximately 65-70% of the MBT inventory consists of the T-72B3 family and the T-80BVM, with the T-90M serving as a rising component.
  • Before the invasion, these types composed around 50% of the overall fleet, heavily skewed towards the T-72B3 family.

Operational Integration and Role Evolution

New developments have seen the T-90M integrated into the Russian Airborne Troops throughout ongoing operations in Ukraine. The T-72B3M has also been redistributed to the National Guard, which had commenced militarization and received its first MBTs post-invasion.

Production Capabilities

In September 2023, the CEO of Uralvagonzavod (UVZ), the primary tank manufacturer, disclosed plans to resume the production of T-80 hulls, alongside reinstating the GTD-1000TF multifuel gas turbine engine at the Kadvi plant. The T-80BVM’s attributes—such as speed, mobility, quieter operation compared to diesel engines, and superior cold-start characteristics—render it advantageous for operations in diverse climates and terrains.

• Production insights:
  • Current capacity allows for approximately 150 T-80BVM tanks to be manufactured annually.
  • Predictions for 2025 suggest UVZ might generate 250 T-90M tanks that year, although estimates vary and should be cautiously interpreted. Actual production capabilities are likely between 150 and 200 tanks yearly.

Advancements in Defensive Systems

Development of Protective Structures

In response to evolving battlefield threats, Omsktransmash has developed a standardized turret roof-mounted cover known colloquially as ‘krisha’ (meaning ‘roof’) or ‘mangal’ (‘brazier’). This system integrates dynamic protective layers designed to defend against top-attack anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) and FPV UAVs.

• Implementation:
  • Preceding this development, the Russian Armed Forces had employed various improvised defensive structures on MBTs within the conflict zone.
  • As of 2023, the factory-fitted ‘krisha’ systems are standard on T-72B3M and T-80BVM models.

This analysis underscores a dynamic landscape for the Russian armored forces, as military and technological adaptations to the continuing conflict shape the future of their main battle tank capabilities and overall military strategy.

For further detailed insights, a comprehensive investigation into these developments can be found in the linked analysis on Russia’s recovery of its tank force.