Russia intends to keep T-80 tanks among the main combat vehicles of its army. This conclusion was reached by the American publication Military Watch Magazine, analyzing the latest statements by representatives of the Russian defense industry.

According to the authors of the publication, this is not about extending the service life of existing vehicles, but about the long-term development of the platform. Despite the emergence of newer T-90M tanks, the T-80 family continues to receive new technical solutions and remains in demand.

The basis for this conclusion was the statements of Igor Lobov, General Director of OmskTansMash. He reported that the enterprise continues to improve the T-80BVM in several areas, including increasing firepower, protection, mobility, and developing crew control systems. Specific technical changes have not yet been disclosed.

As Military Watch Magazine notes, the further development of the tank is directly related to the experience of its use in modern combat conditions. The publication believes that this factor determines the directions of further work.

The authors also draw attention to the T-80's gas turbine engine. In their assessment, high dynamics, high specific power, and the ability to start quickly at low temperatures still make the vehicle unique among Russian serial tanks.

As a result, Military Watch Magazine concludes that Russia does not plan to abandon the T-80. On the contrary, the tank is considered one of the key platforms that will continue to be developed and adapted to the new requirements of the modern battlefield.