Russian military personnel have begun receiving modernized T-72B3M tanks of the 2025 model, created on the basis of old T-72A tanks. The new arrangement of the "Relikt" explosive reactive armor covers the frontal part of the turret without characteristic gaps between the blocks, noted military expert Evgeny Damantsev.
In previous configurations, such gaps were considered a vulnerability of the tank when hit by modern ammunition.
In the case of using a T-72A turret with special armor made of sand rods, the 4S24 "Relikt" elements increase the equivalent resistance against kinetic projectiles to 570–600 mm, and against cumulative projectiles to 850 mm.
Damantsev explained that the type of turret used is of key importance in a tank duel.
Earlier, the Russian military began installing unusual protection on T-80BVM tanks, dubbed "kartuz". It is a cocoon of steel sheets and grilles that covers almost the entire vehicle.
