According to a video released on social networks on 12 June 2023, Ukrainian soldiers announced for the first time the capture of a Russian T-80BVM, the most modern tank of the T-80 family. According to reports, the tank was recently seized by Ukrainian troops in the Donetsk region. This marks the first confirmed seizure of a T-80BVM tank by the Russian military.
Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, dozens of Russian tanks and armoured vehicles have been seized by Ukrainian troops, which are often repaired and returned to service with the Ukrainian armed forces. According to information from open sources (OSINT) quoted by a defence media outlet, more than 500 Russian tanks have been seized by the Ukrainians.
The T-80BVM is a modern upgrade of the T-80BV tank, which was originally designed and used by the Soviet Union in the 1970s. This upgrade is primarily aimed at enhancing the combat capabilities of the older T-80 series, thus making it more effective in a wide range of operational scenarios.
The T-80BVM is known for its powerful gas turbine engine, which significantly enhances the tank's mobility. This high-performance engine, combined with the tank's relatively low weight, allows for superior speed and maneuverability on a variety of terrain.
The T-80BVM is equipped with a comprehensive suite of modern armor technologies designed to enhance survivability and protect against various types of today's threats.
One of the most important aspects of the T-80BVM's armor is the use of reactive armor, specifically Relikt explosive reactive armor. Reactive armor is designed to counter the impact of anti-tank weapons by exploding in response to a hit, disrupting the penetration force of the incoming projectile or warhead. The Relikt reactive armor used by the T-80BVM offers significantly enhanced protection over older types of reactive armor and is designed to be effective against modern anti-tank threats, including multi-load warheads.
In addition to the reactive armour, the T-80BVM's turret and hull consist of composite armour. Composite armour involves the use of different materials, such as metals and ceramics, which are layered together to provide resistance against both kinetic energy penetrators and chemical energy warheads.
The firepower of the T-80BVM is also significantly enhanced. The tank has an upgraded 125mm gun that can fire both traditional projectiles and guided missiles. In addition, it has an improved fire control system, which enhances the accuracy of its attacks.
Another major improvement of the T-80BVM is its advanced thermal imaging and night vision capabilities. These features significantly improve the tank's effectiveness in low-light conditions and during night operations.
The tank also features a modified turret and a new automatic loader, which improves its rate of fire. Finally, the tank's durability and operational life have been extended thanks to improved engine and transmission systems.
In essence, the T-80BVM is a substantial upgrade of the older T-80 series tanks, with numerous improvements designed to enhance performance, survivability and combat effectiveness.
