Russia’s T-90M main battle tank has tested an upgraded version of the Arena-M protection system during exercises, demonstrating its ability to intercept drones and loitering munitions. According to Military Watch Magazine (MWM), the system uses radar to detect an approaching target before launching an interceptor to destroy the incoming threat.

Arena-M was originally developed primarily to protect armored vehicles against conventional anti-tank weapons. The growing role of unmanned aircraft, however, prompted further modifications. In early 2026, representatives of Russia’s defense industry said software changes had given the system a dedicated mode for countering drones.

Modified Arena-M systems later began appearing on T-72B3A tanks deployed with frontline units. Crews also received additional training before the vehicles were sent into the combat zone. MWM reports that the system is currently used on both the T-90M and T-72B3A.

Footage released from the exercises showed Arena-M engaging an aerial target under controlled conditions. An earlier video was also described by analysts as the first documented battlefield use of the system against a Ukrainian FPV drone. The recording showed a T-72B3A launching an interceptor toward an approaching UAV. Analysts linked the upward-directed blast to the activation of Arena-M, while burning debris visible behind the tank was identified as fragments of the destroyed drone.

Russian forces are also using other methods to shield armored vehicles from unmanned aircraft. These include electronic warfare systems, anti-drone cages and overhead screens, remotely operated weapon stations, additional armor and active protection systems.

MWM also points to a sharp increase in T-90M production. Annual output rose from around 90–110 tanks in 2020–2021 to 280–300 vehicles in 2024. Conflict Intelligence Team analysts projected that total T-90M production could reach 1,000 units by mid-2028 and 3,000 by mid-2035.

Military expert Dmitry Kornev said the upgraded system effectively gives the tank its own defensive layer against anti-tank missiles, grenades, artillery munitions and drones. He emphasized that all-round protection against UAVs could significantly strengthen the role of armored vehicles in modern ground operations.