The T-80 and T-90 main battle tanks of Russia are set to receive a major upgrade with the installation of the highly-advanced Arena-M reactive armor. According to a recent announcement by the High Precision Systems Group of Rostec, a state technology corporation, the new armor will significantly enhance the defensive capabilities of these tanks. The Arena-M armor is designed to react quickly to threats and provide superior protection to the tank crew.

The High Precision Systems Group announced that they will be equipping T-90 and T-80 tanks with the advanced Arena-M armor. This technology can also be installed on other tanks in the Russian military, with upgrades tailored to the unique specifications of each individual vehicle. The Group emphasized their commitment to providing specialized improvements to enhance the performance capabilities of the tanks.
The High Precision Systems Group, responsible for the development and production of the Arena-M reactive armor, has expressed that meeting the requirements of the Russian military and preparing for mass production is currently their primary focus. This system, designed by the Machine Building Design Bureau, serves to protect armored vehicles from anti-tank grenades and missiles, and includes a multi-function anti-interference target detection radar.
Foreign interest in the Arena-M reactive armor has been expressed; however, the current priority lies in meeting the demands of the Russian military. Despite facing severe sanctions from the United States and its allies, Russia’s tank modernization efforts remain steadfast. Reports indicate that the country has the potential to produce dozens of tanks daily, demonstrating their long-term production capabilities.
During a visit to a tank factory on February 9, Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Council Dmitry Medvedev announced that Moscow plans to increase tank production in response to Western countries supplying weapons to Kyiv.