Russia’s Ministry of Defence has received into service a new batch of the improved T-72B3 main battle tanks.

That was reported by Russian tank manufacturer UralVagonZavod (UVZ) .

According to the  UVZ,the Russian Army has received the next batch of upgraded T-72B3 main battle tanks (MBTs) with additional armor protection.

Modernization of the T-72B to the T-72B3 began in 2010 and this process also includes improving the tank’s firepower by installing a new fire control system; overhauling each of these old tanks and replacing their outdated engines.

The new version of T-72B3 is fitted with armour plates on each side at the front of the hull and wire cage armour at the rear part to increase protection of the engine compartment against RPG (Rocket-Propelled Grenade) threats. The developers took into account the experience of fighting in Ukraine, Georgia and Syria.

According to armyrecognition.com, the armour of the turret is also upgraded with a new armour package including new generation of ERA (Explosive Reactive Armour) mounted on each side of the turret, while the rear part of the turret is fitted with wire cage armour similar to the system used to protect the rear part of the hull.