Russian T-80BVM crews need about one to two minutes to prepare for an attack after detecting a target, according to gunner-operator Maksim Yerokhin, who described the tank’s combat procedure in a video released by the Russian Defense Ministry.

Once a target is spotted, the gunner identifies a reference point and passes the azimuth to the commander. The commander uses a program to calculate the required firing data and sends the final parameters back to the operator. The gunner then determines the range and angle, aims the weapon and prepares to fire.

After the shot is fired, the enemy has almost no time to react. Tank commander Vladimir Machikhin said only three to four seconds pass between the sound of the gun firing and the projectile hitting its target, making it extremely difficult to evade the strike.

The T-80BVM is a modernized version of the Soviet T-80 tank. The upgrade introduced improvements to its firepower, protection, mobility and control systems.

Another key feature of the tank is its ability to operate in extremely low temperatures. The T-80BVM engine is designed for severe cold, while the vehicle can be started even at minus 40 degrees Celsius.

Modernized T-80BVM tanks have been supplied to the Russian Army since 2017. The vehicle meets modern requirements and is operated in a wide range of climatic conditions.