By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Newly released footage indicates Russia is modernizing older T-72A tanks, likely to compensate for dwindling T-72B stocks. These upgrades involve fitting Relikt explosive reactive armor and protective modules. This effort may extend Russia’s tank availability through 2026-2027, though similar facilities might exhaust T-80B/BV stocks as early as 2026. Russia’s plan includes overhauling 828 T-72 tanks to the T-72B3M standard by 2036, with peak production around 2028.
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It appears Russia is increasingly relying on older, Soviet-era T-72A tanks as its supply of more modern reserves dwindles. This shift suggests a significant strain on their military hardware and a desperate attempt to maintain operational strength on the front lines.
The T-72A models being pulled from storage are relics from the 1970s, a stark contrast to the advanced weaponry employed by modern armies. These tanks, lacking crucial upgrades like modern reactive armor, possess relatively thin plating, estimated at only three inches. Furthermore, their rear engine blocks are notably exposed, making them highly vulnerable to modern anti-tank munitions.
The decision to deploy these antiquated machines raises serious questions about Russia’s current military capacity and strategic planning. The notion of them blowing up “spectacularly” is a grim, albeit probable, outcome given their outdated design and armor. It’s a far cry from the advanced capabilities one would expect from a nation engaged in such a large-scale conflict.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Russia has dipped into its deep Soviet-era stockpiles. They were reportedly using T-62 tanks as far back as two years ago, and there are even mentions of older models being deployed in past conflicts. The sheer volume of tanks produced by the USSR is astonishing, a testament to their immense industrial capacity during that period. However, simply having a large number of tanks doesn’t equate to battlefield superiority, especially when facing modern threats.
The vulnerability of these older T-72A tanks to contemporary anti-tank weapons is a critical concern. Without modern penetration resistance, they are essentially “expensive coffins” waiting to be mobilized. The lack of reactive armor further exacerbates this weakness, leaving them susceptible to even moderately advanced anti-armor rounds.
The idea of using these tanks as “cannon fodder” is a harsh but perhaps accurate description of their current role. Their exposed ammunition storage, a well-known flaw in many Soviet tank designs, means that a direct hit could lead to catastrophic turret ejection – the infamous “turret toss.” This makes them particularly vulnerable to drone attacks, which have become a defining feature of modern warfare.
It’s a peculiar situation where Russia, purportedly engaged in a “special operation,” finds itself resorting to 50-year-old hardware. The narrative of winning the war feels increasingly hollow when the reality on the ground involves breaking out tanks that were designed before many modern soldiers were even born.
There’s also the possibility that these older tanks are being repurposed. Reports suggest they have been used as impromptu artillery platforms due to the strain on actual artillery units, which struggle to maintain their operational tempo and equipment. This further highlights the logistical and maintenance challenges Russia is facing.
The T-72 family itself has a history of design flaws, and the T-72A variant is often considered a less desirable iteration. It was quickly superseded by the more capable T-72B design. The fact that these particular models are being brought back now suggests a significant depletion of better-conditioned or more desirable reserves.
While the mechanics responsible for bringing these ancient machines back to life deserve some credit for their efforts, the underlying reality is grim. These tanks were outclassed by Western counterparts over two decades ago in the Gulf Wars, and they are now even more so in the current conflict.
The comparison to simply having to use an AK-74 instead of a more modern AR-15, while seemingly minor, underscores the broader issue. It represents a step down in capability and a reliance on older, less effective equipment.
The situation prompts the unsettling thought of what might come next. If T-72As are being deployed, it’s not a stretch to imagine even older models, like the T-62 or even T-55s, making their appearance on the battlefield. The T-34-85, a legendary tank from World War II, is even humorously suggested as a future possibility.
This reliance on outdated technology also raises concerns about the troops operating them. The T-72 is known for its problematic autoloader, which has historically been linked to injuring or even killing its own crew. Adding the lack of blowout panels for the ammunition, the risk of catastrophic failure and crew loss is amplified.
In essence, Russia’s increasing dependence on 1970s T-72A tanks is a clear indicator of dwindling modern reserves. It suggests a strategic challenge in sustaining their operations and a willingness to deploy increasingly vulnerable and outdated hardware, potentially at a significant human cost.