"Alarming trend for NATO": new Iranian modernization of the T-72 tank
The Iraqi People's Mobilization Force (PMF), backed by Iran and operating separately from the country's military, has demonstrated its combat potential. On June 26, at the base in Ashraf, PMF troops, numbering up to 150 thousand soldiers, held a military parade, showing their equipment.
As noted in the 21AAR edition, more than two dozen, in particular, took part in the celebrations. tanks... Among them were 9 T-72s, which have undergone significant modernization; seven of them were equipped with a new set of armor, and two are identified as T-72S, operated by the regular army of Iran and the IRGC.
T-72S were acquired by Tehran in the 1990s to replenish the dwindling fleet of British and American tanks. The newer T-72s, which took part in the parade on June 26, deserve special attention. In appearance, they are closer to the Serbian modifications of the T-72 - MBT M-84AS1 / AS2, being also similar to the Czech model T-72 "Scarab".
- indicated in 21AAR.
The seven upgraded T-72s, delivered by Iran to PMF, have towers of large size and are surrounded by composite panels, which, according to the author, "doubles the thickness of their armor", while the rear of the turret was covered with grilles. Composite armor panels have also been added under the turret and above the Glacis [sloped front hull]. The tracks of the tanks are partially covered with new rubber side skirts, held together by rows of armor panels, and rectangular sheets suspended on either side of the engine compartment. The external fuel tanks, located at the rear of the hull, also have a different shape.
- indicated in the publication.
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