Russian T-72B3 Tank Spotted With Arena-M Active Protection System
A modernized Russian T-72B3 tank equipped with the Arena-M active protection system, electronic warfare equipment and anti-drone protection was spotted during Tsentr group exercises.
A modernized Russian T-72B3 tank equipped with the Arena-M active protection system was spotted during exercises of the Tsentr group of forces. The footage was noted by the Telegram channel Osvedomitel.
The photographs show elements of the Arena system installed on the turret of the combat vehicle. In addition, the tank received extra reinforcement: explosive reactive armor blocks, a special «cope cage» to protect the turret from drone attacks, as well as an electronic warfare system.
The Arena-M active protection system is designed to protect armored vehicles from anti-tank missiles and grenades. The system’s radar detects an incoming enemy projectile, after which it launches a protective charge intended to neutralize the threat before it hits the tank.
Thus, the T-72B3 shown during the exercises combines several layers of protection at once: active, reactive, anti-drone and electronic warfare protection. The vehicle demonstrated the use of modern solutions aimed at increasing the survivability of armored vehicles against new threats on the battlefield.
Earlier, in February 2025, Uralvagonzavod showed a T-90M Proryv tank with a similar protection system. Qualification tests of the Arena-M system began in February 2024.