Tank talk: The Ministry of Defense will receive the first production “Almaty” this year. The new Armata tanks will be tested by the troops. What is the best way?

With the development of information technology, the doctrine of warfare has changed. The emphasis began to be placed not on massive strikes and concentrations of troops, but on tactical data exchange and the use of high-precision weapons.

Based on a similar concept, the United States developed the doctrine of network-centric warfare. Its key aspect is to coordinate the actions of units, exchange information in real time and effectively carry out strikes. The principles of this doctrine are adopted by other states, including Russia.

T-14 "Armata" (Armata) is a Russian main battle tank developed within the framework of the concept of network-centric warfare. Designed for action as part of a group, reconnaissance, adjustment and fire control. Significant emphasis is placed on the communication equipment of the machine.

History of development and generation of tanks

The history of the development of the Armata platform and tank is associated with the rivalry between the USA and the USSR in the creation of vehicles with an uninhabited turret. The first drawings of such projects began to be developed in the 1980s. Later they were continued by several developments - objects 195, 640 and 299.

Despite the economic difficulties of the 90s, the Russian designer managed to create the first tank focused on conducting network-centric warfare. The development was based on the creation of the Armata universal combat platform, work on which has been carried out since 2009.

For its design, the developments of previous experimental tanks and combat vehicles were used. The peculiarity of the new platform was its wide range of applications. The modular system made it possible to supplement it with the necessary weapons in accordance with the specifics of the order.

Taking into account the versatility of the platform, the T-14 Armata turret is made uninhabited with automated weapons control. The crew itself is completely moved to the control compartment in the bow of the hull.

This arrangement provided the crew with additional protection. This aspect solves two problems at the same time - it increases the efficiency of the crew, who feel their “invulnerability” and protects trained professionals, whose value has become equal to the cost of the tank itself.

Also, when developing the Armata tank, the increased importance of infantry formations armed with modern anti-tank missile systems was taken into account. In this context, the concept of a single tank is considered obsolete. In the new concept of combat, the emphasis is placed on tactical units of several combat vehicles.

Taking this factor into account, the universal platform “Armata” was created. The T-14 developed on its basis performs the function of reconnaissance and coordination of actions with other tactical level vehicles. This does not reduce the combat characteristics of the tank, but it changes the conditions for its use in battle.

The name of the platform and tank has nothing to do with the armada. The name of the first Russian cannons of the 14th century is based on the Latin root arma, translated as “weapon”.

First demonstration

The first prototypes of equipment on the Armata platform were presented in 2013 at the international exhibition Russia Arms Expo in Nizhny Tagil. Two years later, several variants of military equipment were shown at the Victory Parade on May 9, 2015. It was then that the T-14 was presented as a promising modern tank.

Design of the T-14 tank

The design of the T-14 tank has several key features that distinguish it from modern analogues. Taking into account the versatility of the platform and modular assembly, the layout of the machine has been changed. Greater emphasis is placed on automation of the warhead and crew safety. Taking these aspects into account, the design of the tank is built.

"Armata" is equipped with a tank information and control system (TIUS). It provides automated control of machine components and assemblies. Any malfunctions are reported to the crew. This system also determines which breakdowns need to be repaired first.

Armored capsule and uninhabited tower

The main problem of many tanks was finding ammunition along with the crew. This created a threat of its death if it was hit by a cumulative projectile; in this case, even a technically sound tank would fail.

Development of automated feeding of projectiles into a gun was carried out in many countries. The difficulty was in supplying ammunition when changing the position of the turret and the angle of fire. Trial mechanisms have shown their unreliability, which is why the crews of many foreign tanks still have a loader, although the ammunition itself is stored separately from the crew.

Russian developers managed to optimize this process, making it more reliable. Thanks to this, the middle part of the hull and the turret became uninhabited, and the ammunition was reliably isolated from the crew. The latter has been moved to the front with its own armor separating it from the rest of the tank.

The turret armor consists of two layers - the main protection and the anti-fragmentation casing. The latter protects the devices from bullets, shrapnel and high-explosive shells. It also provides the vehicle with radar stealth and protection against radiomagnetic pulses. Part of the gun's ammunition is stored in the rear of the turret. Additional power for the machine gun is also located here. All charging is automated.

The T-14 armored capsule provides reliable protection for the crew and electronic equipment from cumulative and fragmentation shells. Survival is also ensured in the event of detonation of ammunition or fuel tanks. They are also insulated with armored partitions and have knock-out hatches that direct the force of the explosion away from the crew.

Phased array radar

Radar protection (radar) T-14 "Armata" is part of the "Afganit" system. Its key feature is the use of an active phased array radar (AFAR), made by analogy with developments for the Su-57 fighters. The technology is based on the use of low-temperature ceramics in the Ka-band 26.5-40 GHz (LTCC).

Structurally, the radar is placed on the tower in four panels, protected by a fragmentation shield. Their arrangement provides a 360-degree view without rotation. According to preliminary data, Armata is capable of detecting up to 40 ground and 25 air dynamic targets simultaneously.

The target detection radius is considered controversial. Sources indicate a coverage of 100 km. It is known that there was an attempt to reduce the radar power, but in the end it was decided to leave it as is. It was this aspect that predetermined the role of the T-14 in the tactical level - reconnaissance and target designation for firing by other vehicles.

In addition to the phased array radar, there are two radars for detecting targets at short ranges. Their work is focused on detecting projectiles and targets when the main radar is turned off.

Active protection "Afghanit"

The Afghanit active defense complex is a radar recognition of threats and targets. Includes the following features and functions:

• automatic rotation of the turret towards the approaching projectile, which exposes the most protected frontal part to attack;
• opening return fire to protect the vehicle and nearby equipment, controlling a machine gun to shoot incoming shells;
• protection against electronic warfare and detection;
• providing stealth camouflage due to thermal insulation of the body and reducing radar visibility;
• creation of smoke-metal curtains to protect nearby infantry, including landing on the vehicle body, electronic destruction of incoming guided projectiles.

Given the range of the Afghanit radars, comprehensive protection is used both to repel threats and to coordinate and launch retaliatory strikes, including preventive measures. This aspect is relevant for actions as part of a tactical unit.

Layout

The T-14 "Armata" has a classic layout adjusted for crew accommodations. The design is divided into three parts:

• in the front there is an armored capsule with three crew members and all equipment for controlling the vehicle;
• the main ammunition is stored in the middle part, and the mechanism for feeding shells into the turret is also located here;
• in the aft part there is traditionally an engine-transmission compartment with fuel tanks.

The uninhabited turret of the Armata tank communicates with its middle part. It has its own division; part of the ammunition is located in the rear part. The main radars, weapons, surveillance and guidance devices are also located here.

Protection

"Armata" has a combined complex protection in several levels. In addition to the Afghanit system, capable of repelling threats on approach, there is the Malachite complex. The operating principle of the latter is designed for the preemptive detonation of approaching projectiles.

Such a system protects the tank from armor-piercing shells, light RPG missiles and heavy anti-tank guided missiles (ATGM). Emphasis is also placed on protecting nearby infantry from ammunition detonation, as well as reducing the likelihood of blinding surveillance and targeting devices.

Passive protection of the T-14 hull is represented by the following elements:

• frontal protection based on composite materials, according to unconfirmed data, is capable of withstanding hits from ATGMs with a caliber of up to 150 mm and armor-piercing finned sabot projectiles (BOPS) up to 120 mm;
• internal armored fences isolating compartments in the event of hit and detonation of fuel tanks and ammunition.

Anti-cumulative screens are used primarily on the tower. They are also provided for fuel tanks, providing them with additional armor.

Mine protection

The Armata's mine protection is represented by two key aspects: a V-shaped armored bottom and remote mine detectors. The latter are connected to the remote mine destruction system. The explosion is carried out due to distortion of the tank's magnetic field.

The V-shaped bottom is complemented by energy-absorbing materials (closed-cell aluminum foam) and special mine-resistant seats. The design of the latter can significantly reduce the shock wave and the load on the crew from both explosions and movement on uneven surfaces.

Missile defense

The missile defense of the T-14 "Armata" is represented by three stages:

• the Afghanit active protection complex ensures interception of projectiles, suppression of their control, and destruction;
• dynamic protection "Malachite" ensures the reflection and destruction of projectiles of various calibers at close range;
• The tank's own armor protects against hits from ammunition that has passed the first two levels.

Information about the tank’s ability to withstand hits from modern guided munitions does not yet have accurate data. According to experts, the frontal armor of the vehicle, even without dynamic protection, cannot be penetrated by the best NATO ATGMs. Many Western analysts also believe that the Armata's armor is capable of withstanding hits from the most modern anti-tank shells.

Stealth technologies

The Armata's invisibility technology is represented by the following aspects:

• thermal insulation coating of the body on the inside;
• system for mixing exhaust gases with cold air;
• flat reflective edges in the hull design reduce radar signature;
• painting the tank reduces heating from the sun and ensures absorption of radar waves;
• There is a magnetic field distortion system.

All these factors significantly reduce the radar, infrared and magnetic signature of the Armata. In a number of cases, the identification of the T-14 as a tank or combat vehicle is excluded.

Engine and transmission

The Armata is equipped with a twelve-cylinder X-shaped four-stroke diesel engine with a 12N360 turbocharger. The power of the power plant is switchable and can correspond to one of three indicators - 1200, 1500 or 1800 hp. With.

The use of a four-stroke engine improved efficiency, which increased the march range without refueling. The vehicle's service life has increased, it starts more easily at low temperatures, and requires less air for blowing, which reduces the tank's infrared visibility. If necessary, the engine can be replaced within 30 minutes.

The Armata gearbox is automatic, with the option of manual shifting. There are 16 gears in total, eight each for forward and reverse.

Crew

The crew of the T-14 "Armata" consists of three people: a commander, a driver and a gunner. All three are located in the front part, in an armored capsule. The design of the tank, its layout, external and internal protection provide a high probability of crew survival even in the event of the loss of the vehicle itself.

Suspension

The Armata tank uses active suspension, which gives it a significant advantage over previous generations of vehicles. Unlike uncontrolled hydropneumatic and torsion bar suspensions, the active one, due to sensors, takes into account uneven terrain and independently commands the suspension system to vertically shift the rollers.

This principle of operation allows the machine to adapt to uneven terrain. Accordingly, the smooth running of the tank is ensured, speed is maintained, and the accuracy of target designation and shooting in motion is increased.

Maximum speed

The Armata tank, given its weight, is capable of reaching a speed of 80-90 km/h on the highway, and has a cruising range of 500 km. On rough terrain, the speed is reduced to 45-60 km/h. The power reserve in this case depends on the soil and the complexity of the terrain.

Dimensions and weight

The technical characteristics of the Armata tank in terms of dimensions have the following indicators:

• body length - 8.7 m;
• total length with the gun facing forward - 10.8 m;
• body width - 3.5 m;
• height - 2.7 m;
• track width - 2.8 m.

The weight of the Armata tank in tons is 48-55 tons, information varies from different sources. The specific pressure on the ground, taking into account the mass, is 0.775 kilograms per cubic centimeter.

Armament

Despite the concept of using the T-14 for reconnaissance and coordination of a tank unit, the Armata’s own weapons correspond to the parameters of a main battle tank. The following aspects are highlighted in this issue:

• 125 mm gun 2A82-1M;
• machine guns "Kord" and PKTM.

The guns and machine guns are guided by a fire control system (FCS). The ballistic computer makes the necessary calculations using the following parameters:

• determining the tank’s own position using the GLONASS receiver and inertial navigation system;
• gyroscopic calculation of the tank’s position based on its angular orientation in space;
• calculation of wind direction and speed;
• determination of air temperature and humidity;
• taking into account barrel curvature during heating.

All sensors are located on the roof of the tank. Taken together, the system allows you to automatically calculate the necessary parameters. Many experts agree that this operating principle makes weapon control more similar to a computer game than to real control of a combat vehicle.

Smoothbore 125 mm gun 2A82-1M

Armata tanks are equipped with 2A82-1M smoothbore guns with a caliber of 125 mm. Their range is 7 km, rate of fire is 10-12 rounds per minute. In terms of technical characteristics, such guns are superior to the best NATO tank guns by 17% in muzzle energy and 20% in accuracy.

The supply of ammunition is automatic. It is possible to load the gun with projectiles a meter long, which allows the use of high-power sub-caliber armor-piercing ammunition. The gun's total ammunition capacity is 45 rounds, but its staffing has not yet been approved.

If necessary, 2A83 guns of 152 mm caliber can be installed on Armata tanks. This weapon has the ability to penetrate armor equivalent to up to 1000 mm, which significantly exceeds the protection of modern NATO tanks. Given the power of such a gun, there is no need for armor-piercing shells - the kinetic energy of the fired ammunition is enough to tear off the entire turret of any tank.

Taking into account this factor, the installation of these guns is still considered inappropriate. This makes the T-14 upgradeable if necessary to enhance the firepower of a tank unit. The probable reduction in the ammunition capacity of the new gun is also taken into account - to increase it it is planned to use a turret niche.

Reflex-M missiles

In addition to standard tank shells, the T-14 can hit targets with Reflex-M solid-fuel anti-tank guided missiles. They are capable of hitting almost any highly protected surface, ground and low-flying targets.

The charging of these missiles is carried out according to a tandem scheme. The leading part is designed to overcome the dynamic protection of the target. The main charge is aimed at penetrating armor and directly defeating vehicles or pillboxes. The projectile's flight path is a helical line.

If necessary, the tank can use a variant of the rocket with a thermobaric warhead. Such shells are designed to destroy enemy personnel, engineering structures and lightly armored vehicles.

PKTM machine gun

The Kalashnikov tank modernized machine gun (PKTM) on the T-14 is paired with a gun. Caliber - 7.62 mm. There is no information yet about the ammunition load. Designed primarily to engage infantry and lightly armored targets.

Machine gun "Kord" for destroying enemy shells and missiles

The Kord machine gun serves as an anti-aircraft installation for the tank and its air defense. Integrated with active tank protection. It has its own robotic turret, thermal imagers and AFAR radar, thanks to which it is capable of hitting even high-speed targets at a distance of 1.5 kilometers. Designed primarily to destroy shells and missiles.

Advantages and disadvantages

Taking into account the design and performance characteristics of the T-14, the following advantages of the new tank are highlighted:

• crew protection, improved protection of the vehicle itself and its components;
• high firepower, firing accuracy;
• high speed and smooth ride on rough terrain, taking into account how much the tank weighs;
• invisibility of the machine for various detection methods;
• high range of detection and destruction of targets;
• a resource for further modernization of the tank, including increasing firepower.

Many characteristics and indicators remain unconfirmed or classified. However, the available data confirms the exceptional position of the Armata among modern tanks. At the same time, attention is also paid to the shortcomings of the T-14.

The main questions are raised by the decision to transfer the crew to an armored capsule. This increases its security, but does not allow visibility from the tower. Accordingly, the role of optical technology increases, which creates special requirements for its protection from damage and blinding.

Another disadvantage is the cost of a new tank. Even in mass production, its assembly costs about 250-350 million rubles, which casts doubt on the mass production of such tanks for the army, as well as the likelihood of their production for export.

Despite the inconsistency and inaccuracy of a number of aspects, the project is assessed positively. Western military analysts point to the design understanding of Russian developers of the modern concept of combat operations. The creation of the Armata demonstrates a transition from the quantity of equipment used to the quality combat capability of small tactical groups.

Comparison of Armata with other tanks

Comparing the T-14 with modern tanks, Western experts agree that the Armata belongs to the next generation. There are a number of advantages and developments that are combined for the first time in the design of one machine.

Thus, the Israeli Merkava tank also has an AFAR radar capable of calculating the position of a shot based on an approaching projectile. However, the latter does not have the ability to reflect ammunition, and its frontal armor is weaker. Taking into account the location of the engine in the front part of the hull, penetration of the frontal protection is almost guaranteed to disable such a vehicle.

British experts also express concerns about the ability of their own vehicles to engage in confrontation with the Armata. The current Challenger 2 is not capable of penetrating the armor of the T-14, which requires its urgent replacement.

The German Ministry of Defense put forward a similar assessment of Armata. According to his assessment, Leopard-2 is not capable of penetrating the armor of the T-14. Based on this aspect, a Franco-German concern was created to jointly develop a new modern tank.

Chinese developers are confident that their VT-4 is superior to the Armata, although they point to the better transmission of the T-14. At the same time, the government is considering the possibility of purchasing Russian tanks.

There are no official statements from the United States, however, according to experts and various news publications, the American Abrams is also inferior to the Armata in a number of parameters. An opinion is expressed about its modernization and its ability to be the first to detect the enemy, which increases its chances of survival.

Participation in exercises

The Armata tank has not yet taken part in large-scale exercises or combat operations. Since December 31, 2018, it has been undergoing state tests. Taking into account its cost, the initial purchase orders of the Russian Ministry of Defense were reduced. So far we are talking about assembling 132 vehicles, which include the T-15 infantry fighting vehicle.

Despite the absence of exercises using the T-14, the performance characteristics and design features of the Armata today form new requirements for next-generation tanks:

• on rough terrain, good speed and accuracy of mobile shooting must be maintained;
• AFAR radar for detecting threats is becoming a mandatory attribute of modern technology;
• the tank must be equipped with stealth technologies to reduce visibility, including creating jamming and dynamically changing signatures;
• previous smoke screens are not capable of hiding a vehicle in the infrared and radar range, which requires the creation of new opaque multispectral screens;
• the active protection of the tank must be able to defeat guided missiles and armor-piercing sub-caliber projectiles;
• the anti-aircraft machine gun is also becoming obsolete, instead the emphasis is shifting in favor of robotic installations capable of shooting down objects at high speed;
• the tank's armament should include electromagnetic means of combat, at least against guided missiles;
• the frontal armor of the tank must correspond to an equivalent thickness of 1000 mm;
• the vehicle's reactive armor must repel attacks from hand-held grenade launchers and heavy anti-tank missiles with tandem warheads;
• To significantly damage a tank, it is no longer enough to break through its turret; a significant impact force is required;
• ammunition designed to damage the crew with shrapnel becomes ineffective in the presence of an armored capsule.

In the context of such descriptions and requirements put forward by the development and testing of the T-14, it is expected that other states will actively begin to develop new generation tanks. Whether "Armata" will remain competitive after the appearance of analogues in other countries - time will tell.

If you have any questions, leave them in the comments below the article. We or our visitors will be happy to answer them

The Russian Ministry of Defense does not intend to shelve testing the newest Russian T-14 tank, created on the unique Armata platform.

Based on the test results, a decision will be made on exactly how many of these vehicles the defense department will purchase.

- There are intentions of the Ministry of Defense to carry out experimental military operation of a batch of Armata products, we are preparing for this. There will be little time between the completion of the tests and the delivery of the Armata to the troops., - said the chief designer of the Ural Design Bureau of Transport Engineering Andrey Terlikov.

Video: Tank T-14 “Armata” >>

Let us recall that earlier he also stated that a promising heavy infantry fighting vehicle based on the Armata platform had completed run tests.

The T-15 BMP is designed to conduct all types of combat operations and transport riflemen. It was first demonstrated at the Victory Parade in Moscow in 2015.Heavy infantry fighting vehicle, having a universal remote-controlled combat module "Epoch" (developed by JSC Instrument Design Bureau named after Academician A.G. Shipunov), equipped with a 30-mm 2A72 automatic cannon, a 7.62-mm PKT machine gun and an anti-tank complex " Kornet” can effectively suppress and destroy enemy personnel, anti-tank weapons, armored vehicles, low-speed and low-flying air targets.

The T-15's armor is at the level of a tank and at the same time the combat vehicle is equipped with active protection "". The developers paid special attention to the mine protection of infantry fighting vehicles in terms of saving the lives of two crew members and nine transported military personnel. This allows the combat vehicle to be used in the same combat formation with tanks.

At the same time, designers continue work on a new combat vehicle. As part of the exhibition “Russian Army – Tomorrow”, JSC NPK Uralvagonzavod demonstrated a new conceptual version of the T-15, equipped with an unmanned combat module created within the framework of the Kinzhal R&D project (developed by JSC Central Research Institute Burevestnik). It is equipped with a 57-mm automatic cannon, a 7.62-mm PKT machine gun and an ATGM with Ataka supersonic guided missiles.

Who will be taken to military training and why? >>

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The designers of Uralvagonzavod began developing the Armata platform back in 2009. Already in the early autumn of 2013, a prototype model of the tank was presented at the Russia Arms Expo exhibition in Nizhny Tagil (Sverdlovsk region); in 2014, 10 T-14 units were created.

The T-14 can be called, without undue modesty, the crown of modern tank building. Stealth technologies allow the tank to reduce visibility in the infrared, radio and magnetic range for anti-tank guided missiles (ATGM).

If the Armata does come under gunfire, the ATGM will be intercepted on approach by the latest Afghanit active defense system. Protection is also provided in case of a direct hit by an enemy shell on the tank - in such a situation the fourth generation Malachite dynamic armor system will work.

During the tests, it was found that Malachite is capable of reflecting with a probability of more than 90% anti-tank and sub-caliber projectiles (shells of a smaller caliber than the gun barrel, which gives them greater impact force). In addition, "Armata" -the world's first tank, the crew of which is hidden in a special capsule in the vehicle body, and the weak point of any tank - the tower - is uninhabited.

Today, not only our country is developing new tank equipment. Fundamentally new technologies are also implemented in the latest modifications of the French AMX-56 Leclerc tank. In addition, Israel (Merkava Mk.4) and South Korea (K2 Black Panther and K1A1) have very good tanks.

However, not a single country, except Russia, has yet created a new generation tank; in most cases, we are talking only about modifying the old tank line.

Present to your attention Armata tank test video. It is reported that the sights of the new T-14 Armata tactical tank can distinguish tank targets in the daytime at a distance of up to 5 kilometers. The same reports say that night sights can have a range of up to 3.5 kilometers.

In addition, it is known that the 48-ton modern Armata tank is capable of reaching speeds of 90 km per hour. The T-14 is equipped with an unmanned turret, no "exhaust device" and is designed for a crew of three, surrounded by a solid armored capsule. At the same time on Armata tank test video shows firing from a 125-mm smoothbore cannon, the rate of fire of which reaches 12 rounds per minute. The projectile's flight range reaches 11 kilometers.

Chassis.

The suspension is active, 7-roller with a variable steering mechanism. It smoothes out the vibration of the tank during movement. This allows you to reduce the target acquisition time by more than 2 times. The design of the auxiliary fuel tanks has changed in the T-14. Now they are built-in and covered with an anti-cumulative shield and armor. In addition, the tanks protect the engine because they take the blow. The exhaust of the tank's engines is produced from pipes running in the auxiliary fuel tanks. Taking into account the heat capacity of the fuel in the infrared range, the visibility of the tank is reduced.

Technical characteristics of the Armata T-14 tank

Maximum weight - 48 tons

The crew has been reduced to 3 people.

Speed ​​on the highway - 80 - 90 km/h, on rough terrain - 70 km/h

Armor: active protection “Afganit”, armor resistance 900 mm

Military equipment

125 mm 2A82-1M smoothbore gun, controlled remotely.

Ammunition - 45 shells, range - 7 km.

The Kord anti-aircraft machine gun can also be controlled remotely.

Protection

The developers are confident that armor made from original steel can withstand a collision with any of the existing ammunition. A distinctive feature of Armata is its uninhabited tower. The crew of the vehicle is located in a special armored capsule, which allows tank crews to be guaranteed maximum protection when hit by a projectile. The capsule contains computers. This is necessary during combat operations.

It is worth talking in more detail about the active protection system. It includes masking and reflective elements. The heavy machine gun included in the system allows it to intercept incoming projectiles. “Afganit” covers the entire front part of the vehicle’s hemisphere.

Engine.

Armata has a diesel, 12-cylinder. It is manufactured at the tractor plant in Chelyabinsk. The gearbox is automatic and has 16 speeds. It is possible to switch speed manually. The engine power range is 1200 hp. With. — 1600 l. With.

Mine protection

The bottom of the tank is V-shaped, armored, which is protection against explosions. In addition, the tank has remote mine detectors and a remote mine detonation system. When creating the tank, special materials were used that can absorb a blast wave. Crew seats reduce impact load.

The Americans have already begun developing a new Abrams tank, which should become a counterweight to the Armata tank. We invite you to familiarize yourself with the main modern comparative characteristics of these tanks.

There are many different ways to classify tanks; they are divided depending on the tasks performed, weapons, weight, speed and layout. Many of the types of classification are clearly outdated; they are based on military doctrines dating back to the first half of the last century. Recently, it has become quite popular to divide combat vehicles into generations, although this classification is not considered indisputable.

According to the latest classification, there are four generations of tanks:

• The first includes vehicles created in the 50-60s of the last century; the T-34-85, Panther, M26 General Pershing, T-54, and Centurion fell into this category.
• The second generation includes cars that were released in the 60-70s: T-64, T-62, M60, M60A1, English Chieftain, Vickers Mk 1, French AMX-30, early modifications of the German Leopard.
• The third generation of tanks includes vehicles that appeared after the 1980s: T-80, T-90, Chinese Type 88 and Type 99 tanks, M1 Abrams, Challenger 1, Leopard 2.
• The fourth generation of combat vehicles includes promising developments that have not yet been adopted for service. The only representative of this generation of tanks so far is Russian T-14 "Armata".

At the moment, the latest innovation of the Russian army is the Burlan tank.

Tank troops have been and remain the leading striking force of the Russian army. Unfortunately, it was not always possible to maintain them at the proper level. After the collapse of the USSR, the number of vehicles and personnel began to decline sharply. In the early 2000s, the main task of the military leadership of our country was the modernization of the tank fleet. Thus, based on the Armata platform, specialists created a new family of combat vehicles. T-14 was first demonstrated on May 9, 2015.

Interesting comments on the material on “Armata” in A. Khlopotov’s bogey:

Uralvagonzavod is ready to create a new tank on the Armata platform... well, of course!

Having dropped out of the news agenda dedicated to Russian tanks for some time, today I was catching up when I suddenly came across an unexpected revelation from Uralvagonzavod. Back on August 22, the RT channel published a material with the headline “Uralvagonzavod is ready to create a new tank on the Armata platform.” It’s short, so I’ll quote it in full here:
“The Uralvagonzavod corporation announced its readiness to create a new heavy tank on the Armata platform with a 152-mm cannon. TASS reports this with reference to the UVZ press service. According to a representative of the corporation, confirmation from the customer is required to start work. "The technical groundwork for creating a tank on the Armata platform with a cannon of increased muzzle energy is available. The decision is up to the customer - the Russian Ministry of Defense," the agency's interlocutor said. Currently, the Russian army is testing T-14 Armata tanks with guns of the caliber 125 mm."

How did I miss it then?! Here's the thing, many said that UVZ is already working on such a tank. Even more people assured that changing the gun on the T-14, replacing the 125-mm 2A82 with a six-inch 2A83, was a piece of cake. In turn, I constantly, over and over again repeated and repeated that installing a 125-mm cannon on a promising Russian tank is a mistake, and even more often I said that it would be easy, with “little blood”, to change the 125-mm combat module to a 152-mm one. mm on the T-14 will not work. Such work will, in fact, lead to the creation of a new tank. And voila, finally my words received official confirmation. UVZ admitted that re-equipment of the Armata to 152 mm caliber would indeed require the creation of an actual new tank.
For UVZ, and especially for UKBTM, this is an extremely profitable idea. They have already partially spent the money received for the T-14. At the same time, they issued a tank, which turned out to be unnecessary for the Ministry of Defense. And, lo and behold, the designers were not at all to blame for this! They actually fulfilled the customer’s technical specifications quite punctually. But what place did that same customer think?
By the way, I won’t be surprised that no one in the Ministry of Defense and the Government of the Russian Federation will suffer any punishment for the billions thrown away. They will stupidly write off the money for OCD and start a new job. They'll cut even more.
Well, as for the technical basis, yes, it really exists - it has not gone away since the days of the T-95. We lost 8 years during which we could produce a heavy tank destroyer with a 152mm cannon - so that’s nonsense - no one attacked Russia during this time... Now, if we order it, we’ll spend 10-15 years... K Unfortunately, the existing socio-economic formation does not contribute to the real strengthening of defense capability. Our focus now is on making money and transferring it abroad, to the accounts of beneficiaries of LLC "Russian Federation", and not on real concern for the safety and well-being of citizens.

Jan 21, 2015

Tank troops are considered one of the most powerful components of the modern army. Developers all over the world are paying special attention to improving tanks and other heavy armored vehicles so that they can carry out a large number of assigned combat missions.

Russia was no exception, where specialists decided to create powerful combat vehicles based on the special Armata tracked platform, which would unify armored units and units, as well as optimize the costs of producing tanks and armored vehicles.

Of the entire Armata family, the most anticipated new product in military engineering was the main tank - a new combat vehicle, on the creation of which Uralvagonzavod specialists, engineers and designers worked hard.

Performance characteristics of the Armata T-14 tank

• Combat weight 48 tons
• Crew - 3 people
• Booking
  - combined multi-layer armor
  — Afghanit active protection complex
  — dynamic protection Malachite
• Armament
  — Smoothbore gun 125 mm 2A82-1M (152 mm 2A83)
  — Gun ammunition: 45 shells (32 in the automatic loader)
  — Machine guns — 1 × 12.7 mm Kord; 1 × 7.62 mm PKTM
• Engine
  - multi-fuel A-85-3A (12N360)
  — Engine power 1500 hp.
• Speed ​​on the highway - 80 - 90 km/h
• Speed ​​over rough terrain - about 70 km/h
• Cruising range on the highway - over 500 km
• Specific power - 31 liters. s./t
• Suspension type: active.

Multi-level protection of the Armata tank

The main feature of the T-14 tank is uninhabited tank turret— the crew is located in an isolated armored capsule; among other things, a multi-layer combined armor barrier is installed in the front projection of the combat vehicle, protecting tank crews during frontal hits from anti-tank shells and missiles. This approach to tank design allows the combat vehicle to withstand hits from most modern and future ATGMs and anti-tank shells, while preserving the lives of tank crews. The manned armored capsule also houses control computers, which makes the tank more survivable in modern combat conditions.

Location of components and modules of Almata

The engine, transmission, as well as the automatic loader with ammunition are isolated from each other, which dramatically increases the survivability of the Almata even if the armor of the turret or engine/transmission compartments of the tank is penetrated. That is, if there is no direct hit in the compartment with ammunition and automatic loader, then there will be no detonation of the ammunition. Even with multiple penetrations of the tank, the armored capsule will protect the crew and fire control systems, allowing the robotic uninhabited turret to fire. Another original solution is that the crew is positioned in a row, which reduces the area of ​​the side projection of the manned armored capsule, sharply reducing the likelihood of being hit.

The T-14 tank uses a new mine-resistant V-shaped armor; remote mine detectors are installed on the tank, which are connected to an anti-tank mine destruction system, which allows the tank to overcome minefields.

Turret of the T-14 Armata tank

The turret of the Armata T-14 tank, as we wrote above, is uninhabited; its armor consists of anti-fragmentation casings to protect instruments and weapons. The steel casing protects the turret instruments, as well as dynamic protection modules from light fragmentation damage; an additional function of the casing is to reduce the radio signature of the tank against ATGMs/ATGMs with radar guidance of the JAGM type, due to the geometry of the surface.

Active protection complex "Afganit"

But armor cannot 100% protect a tank from modern anti-tank weapons, so the T-14 is equipped with the Afghanit active protection complex, which has the ability to intercept modern ATGMs, cumulative grenades from RPGs, as well as sub-caliber armor-piercing shells while approaching the tank.

Defense Update experts, when analyzing the Afghanit system on the T-14, indicate that it consists of damaging and concealing elements. The striking elements are located in shotgun pedestals under the turret, operating similarly to the Drozd KAZ, but more efficiently - the reaction time allows you to intercept even sub-caliber shells. The Afghanit developers also received patent RU 2263268 for an active protection system based on the “shock core” principle, which allows them to shoot down promising ammunition at speeds of up to 3000 m/s.

The camouflage elements of the Afghanit active protection complex are located in small mortars on the roof of the tank turret. Defense Update experts report that, presumably, the camouflage elements operate simultaneously as: a smoke screen, a multispectral curtain (including the IR range) and a curtain opaque to millimeter-wave radars (by releasing a cloud of miniature dipoles). According to Defense Update, this completely blocks anti-tank systems built on the principle of laser (ATGM Hellfire, TOW, Fagot, Skif, Stugna-P), IR guidance (ATGM Javelin, Spike) and with its own MW radar (ATGM JAGM, Brimstone) , making Armata protected from these anti-tank missiles, as well as from gliding homing charges (“roofbreakers”).

Photo by Vitaly V. Kuzmin

To counteract guidance radars and AWACS aircraft, the T-14 tank uses modern elements of stealth technology with characteristic flat edges (see, for example, the casing on the turret of the Armata tank). Defense Update experts indicate that the combined destructive and camouflage KAZ "Afganit" is triggered by an AFAR radar, which is divided into 4 separate matrices directed in different directions, the rear matrices are turned upward to control the upper hemisphere, so the AFAR radar has circular coverage. The tank's optical surveillance equipment is also integrated with a system for proactive delivery of curtains.

Previously, the developers of the T-14 also reported that the machine gun mount, based on data from the AFAR radar, is capable of protecting the tank not only by shooting down incoming anti-tank missiles, but also having a significant probability of hitting anti-tank shells in order to change the flight path of sub-caliber shells or damage cumulative ammunition.

New steel for armor of the Armata tank

For combined multilayer armor, specialists from the Research Institute of Steel have developed new armor steel grade 44S-SV-SH electroslag remelting of high resistance, as well as new materials and filler designs. This made it possible to reduce the total weight of the tank's armor protection by 15% while maintaining armor resistance. Dynamic protection of the T-14 was created according to the principle of design and modification of the configuration to suit the scenario of combat use of the tank. On the march, dynamic protection can be removed, and additional modules can be installed for an urban combat scenario.

Chassis and engine of Almaty

The new Armata medium tank is equipped with a 12-cylinder four-stroke X-shaped turbocharged diesel engine A-85-3A (12N360) with a power of 1,500 horsepower. Engine 12N360 multi-fuel, with direct injection, developed by the Chelyabinsk design bureau "Transdiesel" and produced at ChTZ (Chelyabinsk Tractor Plant).

The tank has a 7-roller active suspension on vane shock absorbers with a differential steering mechanism with hydrostatic transmission. The new active suspension eliminates the swaying of the tank while moving, which makes it possible to reduce the time of target acquisition by optical-electronic guidance means by 2.2 times, reducing the time of hitting a tank-type target by 1.45 times!

The T-14 Armata is equipped with a tank information and control system (TIUS), which monitors all components and assemblies, controls on-board systems, and diagnoses faults, which allows the driver to control the engine and chassis without leaving the armored capsule for inspection and diagnostics - the need for repairs is determined electronics.

Changed in T-14 design of additional fuel tanks, for the first time for Soviet and Russian tanks they became non-removable and recessed behind the armor and anti-cumulative screen. In this case, the tanks participate in additional protection of the engine, taking on shock deformations. The exhaust of Almaty engines is produced through pipes running through additional fuel tanks, which, taking into account the high heat capacity of hundreds of liters of fuel, reduces the visibility of the tank in the infrared range.

Although the new tank is being created according to all the standards of Russian tank building and is quite often compared to the Black Eagle, the model is an absolute novelty that has no analogues. An important distinguishing feature is the development of a high level of safety for the crew, which will be housed in a special armored capsule.

Armata tracked platform - a universal combat transformer

"Armata" is a heavy tracked platform, which was developed by the Uralvagonzavod enterprise and can be used unified in the production of various types of modern heavy armored vehicles. Based on this unique project, it is planned to create several types of armored vehicles, the development of which Russian specialists have already begun to engage in. The main positions are:

1. T-14 (object 148) - Main battle tank;
2. BMP-T T-15 (GBTU index - object 149) Infantry fighting vehicle;
3. BREM-T T-16 (object 152) - repair and recovery vehicle;
4. BMO-2 - flamethrower combat vehicle;
5. TOS BM-2 - heavy flamethrower system;
6. TZM-2 - transport-loading vehicle for a heavy flamethrower system;
7. 2S35 "Coalition-SV" - self-propelled artillery unit;
8. USM-A1 - mining system;
9. UMZ-A - minelayer (project);
10. MIM-A - multi-purpose engineering vehicle;
11. MT-A - bridge laying machine (project);
12. PTS-A - floating conveyor (project).

Also, the Armata universal tank tracked platform can serve as the basis for creating a chassis for self-propelled artillery units and various types of specialized engineering vehicles. The general public first met the Armata at the Victory Parade on May 9, 2015. The participation of the new T-14 Armata tank attracted the attention of not only Russians; the new tank was followed by a huge number of military specialists from all over the planet.

It will be interesting to see a comparison of the Armata tank with foreign models, for example Armata against Abrams, Leopard, Merkava... by the way, here is a link to.

Update: According to the statement of the head of Uralvagonzavod Oleg Sienko, the Russian Ministry of Defense has agreed on the cost and volume of the order of new T-14 Armata tanks until 2035. The previous volume of supplies of Armat to the troops, approved until 2020, will be adjusted. According to Sienko, the first batch of Armata tanks will arrive in tank units of the Russian Armed Forces by 2018. The total need of the ground forces for a new combat vehicle is 2000 - 2300 units.

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