New Omsktransmash T-80BVM modernization batch

 Omsktransmash has released footage showcasing the production of T-80BVM tanks. 


A T-80BVM was shown in its full combat loadout. Several interesting integrations can be identified. This T-80BVM is equipped with up-armoured mudguards, which are present on T-90M tanks and new T-72B3M batches. Previously, T-72B3 tanks have received additional ERA containers mounted on the side of the hull, this feature has been carried over onto T-80BVM tanks. This T-80BVM also mounts the same protective netting which is present on T-90M MBTs. 


In the same video, a very interesting observation can be made. Standard T-80BV turrets are retaining the old 1G42 housing while featuring a Sosna-U cover. This is very odd, considering that during the production of T-80BVMs the old housing is removed and welded shut and replaced with an auxiliary TV-based sight located next to Sosna-U. The old DVE-BS cross-wind sensor mast has been replaced with a new welded housing. 


The original placement of the DVE-BS cross-wind sensor

New DVE-BS housing 

The T-80BVM also features a new main housing cover design which was been present on several T-80BVMs that were shipped by Omsktransmash back in September of 2022. Article covering the delivery

T-80BVM delivery in Q3 of 2022

T-80BVM main sight housing =  2023

The sight housing did not change but it's an interesting integration. The design is similar to the T-90M housing but does not feature spring-loaded hinges on both sides of the shutters. In a different video published here. There is a cylindrical opening mechanism located underneath the shutter. This single shutter feature strays away from the standard 2 shutter design in favour of 1 to simplify the design and reduce cost. It is unknown how the shutter is operated, manually or with the use of mechanical input, but could explain the additional protective metal plate mounted on the side. 



The aforementioned video also showcases a different batch T-80BVM, which is fielding the 1PN-96MT thermal imaging sight, which has been present on some T-72B3 tanks. Article covering different T-72B"3" batch.

Taken from:

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Object 490 "Тополь" - "Poplar"

T-90A - a short history of sights

"AGAVA" - "AGAVA-2" and its confusing history