In the American Abrams, the driver operates the multi-ton machine almost like a car. Electronics help shift gears, control braking, and distribute the load on the transmission. In the Russian T-90M, many solutions appear much more conservative.
However, behind this lie two completely different philosophies of tank building. "Pervyy Tekhnicheskiy" explains why Americans entrusted control to computers, while Russian designers still rely on mechanical reliability.
Abrams is More Like a Truck of the Future
In modern versions of the Abrams, the driver works not with heavy levers, but with a steering wheel resembling a motorcycle handlebar. Electronics automatically control the automatic transmission, assist with braking, and monitor the power plant's operation.
This is a huge advantage for the crew. Operating a machine weighing almost 67 tons becomes significantly easier. The driver gets less tired during long marches, masters the equipment faster, and can pay more attention to the surrounding environment.
The American concept is based on the idea that complex electronics can always be quickly serviced, and repair infrastructure will be located near the troops.
T-90M Retains the Old School
The Russian approach looks completely different. Here, the main thing is not comfort, but the machine's ability to continue moving even after serious damage.
On the T-90M, the driver still operates through traditional controls connected to the machine by the simplest and most reliable mechanisms.
The less complex electronics there are between man and machine, the less likely a failure is in harsh conditions. Even with serious damage, many mechanical systems continue to work where sensitive electronics would already require repair.
What's More Important on the Battlefield
From a convenience perspective, the Abrams is the undisputed winner. Its controls are simpler, and the load on the driver is significantly lower.
While the T-90M loses in comfort, it wins in maintainability and resistance to heavy use. This is why Russian designers continue to choose solutions that may seem outdated at first glance.
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