After studying objective control video footage that captured the moment of activation of the "Arena-M" active protection system (APS) on a T-72B3A tank, experts raised questions about the system's speed, writes the Telegram channel "Russkoye Oruzhiye". Initially, "Arena-M" was designed to intercept ATGMs and grenades using a directed stream of damaging elements. However, in the recorded episodes, the activation occurred in the stern sector, which may indicate that the target was detected too late – almost at the last moment.
There is a high probability that small and slow targets, such as FPV drones, have a specific radar "signature" that the "Arena-M" algorithms may mistakenly identify as interference or a false target. This means that the system may simply not recognize the threat in time. Even if an interception does occur, the remaining impact energy may be partially absorbed by the "Relikt" or "Kontakt-5" explosive reactive armor blocks installed on the tank. However, the quality of the available recordings does not allow for a definitive conclusion as to whether the main armor layer was penetrated.
The biggest problem for "Arena-M" is attacks from above and to the stern – areas not covered by standard APS means. Nevertheless, the installation of the system on the T-72B3A shows that the Russian military is gradually moving towards active defense methods. In the future, such systems should be supplemented by electronic warfare means, creating an echeloned defense. Final conclusions about the effectiveness of "Arena-M" can only be made after analyzing telemetry and studying damaged elements.