View source for T-90

{{short description|Russian third-generation main battle tank}}
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{{Infobox weapon
| is_vehicle         = yes
| name               = T-90
| image              = T-90M.jpg
| image_size         = 300
| caption            = A [[Russian Army]] T-90M main battle tank
| type               = [[Main battle tank]]
| origin             = [[Russia]]
| service            = {{unbulleted list
 |From 1992 (T-90)
 |From 2004 (T-90A)
 |From 2019 (T-90M)
 }}
| used_by            = See [[#Operators|Operators]]
| wars               = {{Tree list}}
*[[War in Dagestan (1999)|War in Dagestan]]{{efn|Alleged by a Russian newspaper}}
*[[Syrian Civil War]]
*[[Second Nagorno-Karabakh War]]<ref name="MKT90s">{{cite web|url=https://www.mk.ru/politics/2021/01/18/pervyy-sluchay-unichtozheniya-tanka-t90-podbili-v-karabakhskom-konflikte.html|title=Первый случай уничтожения танка Т-90: подбили в Карабахском конфликте|date=18 January 2021|work=MK.ru|quote="(Azerbaijan) This is the first reliable case of the destruction of the machine of this model. Previously, T-90S tanks (an export version of the T-90 tank, which is in service with the Russian army) took part in the Syrian conflict, but their destruction was not reported. Several of these combat vehicles of the Syrian army were hit by militants, but did not lose their combat capability"|access-date=26 November 2021|archive-date=26 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211126185902/https://www.mk.ru/politics/2021/01/18/pervyy-sluchay-unichtozheniya-tanka-t90-podbili-v-karabakhskom-konflikte.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="ForbesT90s"/>
*[[Russo-Ukrainian War]]
**[[War in Donbas (2014–2022)|War in Donbas]]
**[[Russian invasion of Ukraine]]
***[[Wagner Group rebellion]]<ref>{{cite news |last1=Ryan |first1=Fergus |last2=Ralph |first2=Oliver |last3=Aglionby |first3=John |title=Russia uprising latest: Wagner vehicles reach Lipetsk region, six hours from Moscow |url=https://www.ft.com/content/9cd09366-25db-4057-a41d-0ea04b659d97 |access-date=24 June 2023 |work=Financial Times |date=24 June 2023 |archive-date=24 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230624105349/https://www.ft.com/content/9cd09366-25db-4057-a41d-0ea04b659d97 |url-status=live }}</ref>
{{Tree list/end}}
| designer           = [[Uralvagonzavod|Kartsev-Venediktov]]
| manufacturer       = [[Uralvagonzavod]], [[Heavy Vehicles Factory]]
| number             = ≈4,000 (2023, see [[#Operators|Operators]])<br />1,400 units of T-90S/SM built in India under license  <br /> >1000 delivered to other countries
| production_date    = 1992–present
| unit_cost          = USD 2.5 million in 1999,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kap-yar.ru/index.php?pg=244|title=-300 -1|access-date=15 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141013072626/http://www.kap-yar.ru/index.php?pg=244|archive-date=13 October 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> USD 2.77–4.25 million in 2011 (varies by source)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://arms-tass.su/?page=article&aid=93690&cid=25 |title=Denial of Defense Procurement MBT T-90 is not connected with the qualitative characteristics of this sample of military equipment – Ministry of Industry of the Russian Federation |publisher=Arms-Tass |date=17 March 2011 |access-date=19 March 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110726044120/http://arms-tass.su/?page=article&aid=93690&cid=25 |archive-date=26 July 2011 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />T-90SM: USD 4.5 million in 2016
| crew               = 3
| length             = {{convert|9.63|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
{{convert|6.86|m|ftin|abbr=on}} (hull)
| width              = {{convert|3.78|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
| height             = {{convert|2.22|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
| weight             = {{convert|46|t|abbr=out|lk=on}} (T-90)<br />{{convert|46.5|t|abbr=out|lk=on}} (T-90A)<br />{{convert|48|t|abbr=out|lk=on}} (T-90SM)<ref name="t90s">{{cite web|url=http://uralvagonzavod.com/products/special_products/45/|title=T-90S Modernized|publisher=UralVagonZavod|access-date=29 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151126060134/http://uralvagonzavod.com/products/special_products/45/|archive-date=26 November 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref>
| armour             = Steel-composite-reactive blend [[Armour-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot|APFSDS]]: 550{{nbsp}}mm + 250–280{{nbsp}}mm with Kontakt-5 = 800–830{{nbsp}}mm<br />
[[High-explosive anti-tank|HEAT]]: 650–850{{nbsp}}mm + 500–700{{nbsp}}mm with Kontakt-5 = 1,150–1,550{{nbsp}}mm<ref>{{cite web |url=http://btvt.narod.ru/4/t-90a/t-90A.htm |title=T-90 |publisher=btvt.narod.ru |access-date=11 April 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140410134807/http://btvt.narod.ru/4/t-90a/t-90A.htm |archive-date=10 April 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref>
| primary_armament   = [[2A46 125 mm gun|2A46M 125 mm smoothbore gun]] with 43 rounds (T-90)<br />
2A46M-2 125 mm smoothbore gun with 42 rounds (T-90A)<br />2A46M-5 125 mm smoothbore gun with 43 rounds (T-90M)
| secondary_armament = [[12.7×108mm|12.7mm]] [[Kord machine gun|Kord]] [[Heavy machine gun]], [[7.62×54mmR|7.62mm]] [[PK machine gun|PKMT]]
| engine             = V-84MS 12-cyl. diesel (T-90)<br />V-92S2 12-cyl. diesel (T-90A)<br />V-92S2F
| engine_power       = 840 hp (617 kW) for V-84MS 12-cyl. diesel engine<br />1000 hp (736 kW) for V-92S2 12-cyl. diesel engine (T-90A and T-90S)<br />1130 hp (831 kW) for V-92S2F (T-90M and T-90MS)
| suspension         = [[Torsion bar]]
| speed              = {{convert|60|km/h|abbr=on}}<ref>{{cite web |title=Танк Танк Т-90C модернизированный Т-90МС |url=http://uralvagonzavod.ru/product/70/57 |website=uralvagonzavod.ru |access-date=5 February 2022 |archive-date=5 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220205125007/http://uralvagonzavod.ru/product/70/57 |url-status=dead }}</ref> (T-90A and T-90MS)
| pw_ratio           = 18.2 hp/tonne (13.3&nbsp;kW/tonne) (T-90)<br />
21.5hp/tonne (15&nbsp;kW/tonne) (T-90A)
| vehicle_range      = {{convert|550|km|abbr=on}} (without fuel drums)
}}
{{T-72 navigation}}
The '''T-90''' is a [[List of main battle tanks by generation#Third|third-generation]] Russian [[main battle tank]] developed from, and designed to replace the [[T-72]]. It uses a 125{{nbsp}}mm [[2A46 125 mm gun|2A46]] [[smoothbore]] [[tank gun|main gun]], the 1A45T [[fire-control system]], an upgraded engine, and gunner's [[thermal sight]]. Standard protective measures include a blend of steel and [[composite armour]], smoke grenade dischargers, [[Kontakt-5]] [[explosive reactive armour]] (ERA) and the [[Shtora]] infrared [[anti-tank guided missile]] (ATGM) jamming system.

The T-90 was designed and built by [[Uralvagonzavod]], in [[Nizhny Tagil]], Russia. It entered service with the [[Russian Ground Forces|Russian army]] in 1992.

==Development==
The T-90 has its origins in a [[Soviet Union|Soviet]]-era program aimed at developing a replacement for the [[T-64]], T-72 and [[T-80]] series of main battle tanks (MBT). The T-72 platform was selected as the basis for the new generation of tank owing to its cost-effectiveness, simplicity and automotive qualities. The [[Uralvagonzavod|Kartsev-Venediktov Design Bureau]] from Nizhny Tagil was responsible for the design work and prepared two parallel proposals—the ''Object 188'', which was a relatively simple upgrade of the existing T-72B tank (''Object 184''), and the far more advanced ''[[Object 187]]''—only vaguely related to the T-72 series and incorporating major improvements to the hull and turret design, armor, powerplant and armament. Development work was approved in 1986 and the first prototypes were completed by 1988. The vehicles resulting from the ''Object 187'' program have not been declassified to this date.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Szulc|first1=Tomasz|title=Ostatnie czołgi Związku Radzieckiego?|journal=Nowa Technika Wojskowa|date=August 2009|issue=9|pages=24–30}}</ref>

The Object 188 was engineered by a team under V.N. Venediktov. The biggest change was the integration of the T-80U's 1A45 [[fire-control system]]. The Object 188 was initially designated as the T-72BM. The first four of these were delivered for trials in January 1989. An improved variant (called Upgraded T-72B<ref name=":2">{{Cite book |last=Устьянцев С.В., Колмаков Д.Г. |title=Т-72.Т-90. Опыт создания отечественных основных боевых танков |date=2013 |publisher=Uralvagonzavod |isbn=978-5-91356-210-4 |pages=120–121 |language=ru |trans-title=T-72.T-90. Experience in creating domestic main battle tanks}}</ref>) was delivered beginning in June 1990. In March 1991, the [[Ministry of Defense (Soviet Union)|Soviet Ministry of Defense]] recommended that the Army adopt the Object 188. Work on the Object 187 was simultaneously stopped for unknown reasons.<ref>{{harvnb|Zaloga|2018|pages=7–8}}</ref>

==Production and service history==
[[File:T-90 snorkel.jpg|thumb|An early series T-90 with cast turret during a military exercise in Russia, demonstrating deep fording]]

Russian tank production dwindled in the years before and after the breakup of the Soviet Union. The [[Kharkov Locomotive Factory|Kharkov]] tank plant belonged to the newly independent [[Ukraine]], the [[Chelyabinsk Tractor Plant]] ended production in 1989, and [[Kirov Plant|Kirov]] in [[Saint Petersburg|Leningrad]] in 1990. In the two remaining tank plants at [[Omsktransmash|Omsk]] and [[Krasnoye Sormovo Factory No. 112|Nizhni-Tagil]], state orders all but ceased in 1992. Around the same time, the Russian Ministry of Defense decided it would commit to eventually producing just one tank type.<ref name="auto2">{{harvnb|Zaloga|2018|pages=4–5}}</ref>

During the 1980s, the Soviet military had ordered T-64s, T-72s and T-80s, then in simultaneous production from rival tank design firms. Though all three tanks had similar characteristics, they each required different components, which contributed to the Army's logistical burden.<ref name="auto2"/> Though both Nizhni-Tagil's T-90 and Omsk's T-80U had their merits, the T-80's [[gas turbine]] engine was notorious for its high fuel consumption and poor reliability. Additionally, Russian T-80s suffered heavy losses in their first combat use during the [[First Chechen War]]. Meanwhile, the T-90 was spared media criticism as it was not deployed in Chechnya, and its new name distanced it from the T-72, which was also lost in large numbers in the conflict.<ref name="auto3">{{harvnb|Zaloga|2018|pages=16–17}}</ref>

In January 1996, Colonel General [[Aleksandr Galkin (general)|Aleksandr Galkin]], chief of the Main Armor Directorate of the Russian Ministry of Defense, said the Russian Armed Forces would phase out T-80 production in favor of the T-90 (Galkin reversed his position later that year, claiming the T-80U was a superior tank). Production of the T-80 at Omsk persisted until 2001, mainly for the export market.<ref name="auto3"/>

The principal upgrade in the T-90 is the incorporation of a slightly modified form of the T-80U's more sophisticated 1A45T ''Irtysh'' fire control system and an upgraded V-84MS multi-fuel engine developing 840&nbsp;hp (618&nbsp;kW).<ref>{{harvnb|Zaloga|2018|pages=13–14}}</ref> The T-90 was manufactured at the Uralvagonzavod factory in Nizhny Tagil, with low-level production being carried out since 1992 and virtually ceasing towards the end of the 1990s for the native market. Around 120 T-90 tanks were delivered to the Russian Ground Forces before production of an upgraded version was resumed in 2004.<ref>{{harvnb|Zaloga|2018|pages=8,21,24}}</ref>

By September 1995, some 107 T-90 tanks had been produced, located in the [[Siberian Military District]].<ref>{{cite book |first=James M |last=Warford |title=The Russian T-90S: Coming into Focus |work=Armor |date=September–October 1997 |url=https://www.knox.army.mil/center/ocoa/armormag/backissues/1990s/1997/so97/5T90.pdf |publisher=US Army}}{{dead link|date=April 2025|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}} , quoting Russian newspaper sources</ref> Later, another U.S. report said that "..with only 150 built by mid-1998, the Siberian Military District's [[21st Motor Rifle Division]] received [some of] these MBTs and formed a tank regiment (T-90s were also issued to the 5th Don Guards Tank Division in Buryatia)."<ref>Adam Geibel, "Did the Rebels Misidentify Knocked-Out Tanks?," ''Armor Magazine'', November–December 2000, p.27</ref> However, the 21st MRD had already been reduced to the status of a motor-rifle brigade by this time, and then was reduced to a storage base in 1997.

Facing tapering domestic orders, Uralvagonzavod received government approval to export the T-90 in the mid-1990s. The designers at Uralvagonzavod created a new, welded turret that offered improvements in protection and internal space in the same period. In 1997, India signaled interest in the T-90 in response to Pakistan's acquisition of 320 Ukrainian T-80UD tanks. India's [[Heavy Vehicles Factory]] in [[Avadi]] was already license-manufacturing the T-72 under the name "Ajeya".<ref>{{harvnb|Zaloga|2018|pages=17–18, 20}}</ref>

The first 42 complete Indian tanks were delivered in 2001 and were designated '''T-90S''' ('''''Object 188S'''''), still equipped with the older cast turrets of the early series<ref>{{harvnb|Zaloga|2018|page=20}}</ref> (this exhausted the remaining stocks of cast turrets warehoused at Nizhny Tagil) and powered by the V-84 engine making 840&nbsp;hp (618&nbsp;kW).{{citation needed|date=April 2022}} In 2002, 82 vehicles were delivered, now equipped with the new welded turrets and the V-92S2 engine, generating 1,000&nbsp;hp (735&nbsp;kW). The initial contract stipulated the following batch of 186 tanks, now officially called '''Bhishma''', to be completed in India from Russian-supplied kits, and then gradually replaced with domestically manufactured parts. Delays in domestic production compelled the Indian authorities to place an additional order for 127 complete vehicles from Uralvagonzavod.<ref>{{harvnb|Zaloga|2018|pages=20–21}}</ref>

[[File:T-90A - Engineering Technologies 2012 -01.jpg|thumb|A Russian specification T-90A. The new welded turret with its angular geometry is clearly visible.]]
In 2005 the Russian army resumed delivery of the T-90, requesting the "original" specification for the vehicle with a cast turret. But with the new order numbering 14 tanks, and the large capital investment required to set up production of new cast turrets, the Russian Ministry of Defence agreed on a new configuration very close to the Indian T-90S, which was expeditiously accepted into service without any trials as the '''''Object 188A1''''' or '''T-90A'''.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Szulc|first1=Tomasz|title=Nowe Czołgi Naszych Wschodnich Sąsiadów: T-90MS I Opłot-M|journal=Nowa Technika Wojskowa|date=September 2012|issue=9|pages=14}}</ref> 2005 saw delivery of 18 new tanks – enough to equip approximately five tank platoons. These new Russian tanks were powered by the V-92S2 engine, carried a T01-K05 ''Buran-M'' gunner's sight (passive-active night-vision channel with an EPM-59G ''Mirage-K'' matrix and a maximum observation distance of 1,800 m) and were protected by the most recent Kontakt-5 reactive armor with 4S22 explosive tiles.

The years 2006–2007 saw the delivery of 31 T-90A tanks each, now fitted with entirely passive ESSA main gunner's sights supplied by Peleng in [[Belarus]] and using the 2nd-generation thermal camera Catherine-FC from [[Thales Group|Thales]], and improved 4S23 ERA tiles. The joint venture established on the basis of JSC Volzhsky Optical and Mechanical Plant (VOMZ) and Thales Optronics, produced Catherine-FC thermal imaging devices, which were further used to develop "ESSA", "PLISA" and "SOSNA-U" sighting systems produced for the Russian armoured vehicles, including T-72B3 tanks and export versions of T-90S (exported to India, Algeria and Azerbaijan). Since 2012, Russia was able to produce 3rd-generation Catherine-XP cameras based on QWIP matrix technology.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://defence-ua.com/index.php/en/publications/defense-express-publications/1182-paris-moscow-a-thorny-path-of-justified-sanctions |title=Paris-Moscow: A Thorny Path of Justified Sanctions |access-date=3 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180803224146/https://defence-ua.com/index.php/en/publications/defense-express-publications/1182-paris-moscow-a-thorny-path-of-justified-sanctions |archive-date=3 August 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>

In 2012, the Russian-made commander combined sample supervisory-sighting system ''"T01-K04DT/Agat-MDT"'' was presented to the public at the International Forum Engineering Technologies 2012. According to Krasnogorsky Zavod plant, Agat-MDT has the ability to install (for further modernization) in the sight the newly developed domestic UPF format 640×512 by 15 microns, which makes possible in the future to extend the range of target identification at night to 3.5–4.0&nbsp;km without modifications to the sight.<ref name="survincity.com">{{cite web |url=http://survincity.com/2013/10/of-kmz-complex-produced-the-first-tank-with-a/ |title=Of KMZ complex produced the first tank with a domestic — Encyclopedia of safety |access-date=3 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180803141034/http://survincity.com/2013/10/of-kmz-complex-produced-the-first-tank-with-a/ |archive-date=3 August 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>

In 2016, the Krasnogorsk plant finished testing the ''Irbis-K'' night-vision sighting system for the T-80U and T-90, with first deliveries planned for 2017. Completion of the Irbis-K, the first Russian-produced [[mercury cadmium telluride]] (MCT) matrix thermal sight, addressed a disadvantage of Russian tanks relative to their Western counterparts. The Irbis-K can identify targets at ranges up to 3,240 meters during day and night.<ref name="mil.today">{{cite web |url=http://mil.today/2017/Weapons52/ |title=T-90 Tanks to Get MCT-Matrix Heat-Vision Sight |date=14 May 2017 |access-date=16 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180716053931/http://mil.today/2017/Weapons52/ |archive-date=16 July 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>

In 2007, there were about 334 T-90 tanks of various types serving in the Russian Ground Forces' [[5th Guards Tank Division]], stationed in the Siberian Military District, and seven T-90 tanks assigned to the marines.<ref name="warfare.ru">{{cite web|url=http://www.warfare.ru/?lang=&catid=244&linkid=1778|title=T-90/S MBT|access-date=19 October 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071110070955/http://www.warfare.ru/?lang=&linkid=1778&catid=244|archive-date=10 November 2007|url-status=live}}</ref> Since 2008, the Russian army has received 62 tanks annually, suspending orders in 2011.

After the cancellation of the [[T-95]] in 2010, Uralvagonzavod began the OKR Armata (Armament) design study. The study resulted in the Object 148 based on the T-95 (itself based on the Object 187). The Russian Army curtailed T-90 orders beginning in 2012 to prepare for the arrival of the new tank.<ref>{{harvnb|Zaloga|2018|p=34}}</ref> In July 2021, Industry and Trade Minister [[Denis Manturov]] said the tank, designated the [[T-14 Armata]], will enter serial production in 2022.<ref name="Cranny-Evans">{{cite news |last1=Cranny-Evans |first1=Samuel |title=T-14 Armata to enter series production in 2022 |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/t-14-armata-to-enter-series-production-in-2022 |access-date=27 December 2021 |work=Janes |date=6 July 2021 |archive-date=27 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211227192702/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/t-14-armata-to-enter-series-production-in-2022 |url-status=live }}</ref>

Deliveries of upgraded T-90M tanks started in April 2020 to the Guards Tank Army of the RF [[Western Military District]]. The T-90M ‘Proryv’ (‘Breakthrough’) has received a principally new turret, the 2A46M-5 gun, and a more powerful engine. The Proryv is outfitted with a new multi-channel sighting system that allows employing weapons at any time of day or night and it can exchange data with other vehicles in real time.<ref name="mdb_chechnya"/> A new batch was delivered in March 2021.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://tass.com/defense/1261443|title=Defense firm delivers a batch of upgraded T-90M main battle tanks to Russian troops|access-date=2 March 2021|archive-date=2 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210302110627/https://tass.com/defense/1261443|url-status=live}}</ref> According to Ukrainian intelligence sources, manufacturing of T-90s was slowed because of the effect of [[International sanctions during the Russo-Ukrainian War|International sanctions]] since the start of the [[2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine|invasion of Ukraine]].<ref name="jpost.com">{{Cite web|url=https://www.jpost.com/international/article-704376|title=Russia-Ukraine war: Sanctions cripple Russia's tank production – GUR|date=17 April 2022|access-date=30 May 2022|archive-date=3 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220503062702/https://www.jpost.com/international/article-704376|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://tass.com/politics/1552923 | title=T-90M main battle tanks arrive for Russian troops in Ukraine special operation zone | access-date=21 December 2022 | archive-date=21 December 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221221162918/https://tass.com/politics/1552923 | url-status=live }}</ref> An article from ''[[Forbes]]'' magazine in early October 2023 suggested a rise in T-90M's production based on the increasing amount of T90 losses in Ukraine.<ref name="Axe 2023 v267">{{cite web | last=Axe | first=David | title=Russia Is Losing More Of Its Best T-90 Tanks, Perhaps Because It Has More T-90s To Lose | website=Forbes | date=6 October 2023 | url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidaxe/2023/10/06/russia-is-losing-more-of-its-best-t-90-tanks-perhaps-because-it-has-more-t-90s-to-lose/ | access-date=25 October 2023}}</ref>

The UK-based [[International Institute for Strategic Studies]] (IISS) estimates that annual production of T-90M tanks could reach up to 90 units in 2024. Analysis suggests, however, that the majority of these T-90Ms are likely upgrades of older T-90A models rather than newly built tanks.<ref>{{Cite news |date=16 July 2024 |title=Russia's vast stocks of Soviet-era weaponry are running out |url=https://www.economist.com/europe/2024/07/16/russias-vast-stocks-of-soviet-era-weaponry-are-running-out |access-date=11 August 2024 |newspaper=The Economist |issn=0013-0613}}</ref> Sources indicate that over 200 T-90Ms have been delivered since the war in Ukraine started.<ref>{{cite web | last=Nikolov | first=Boyko | title=Uralvagonzavod rolls out new batch of T-90M tanks for Russia | website=Bulgarian Military Industry Review | date=7 September 2024 | url=https://bulgarianmilitary.com/2024/09/07/uralvagonzavod-rolls-out-new-batch-of-t-90m-tanks-for-russia/ | access-date=9 September 2024}}</ref> The UK-based ''Military Watch Magazine'' reported in September 2024 that efforts to surge the production rate to well over 1000 per year had fallen far short, with the output remaining uncertain with some reports indicating that over 300 T-90Ms would be delivered throughout the year.

==Combat use==
===Russian service===
An early variant of the export-oriented T-90S allegedly saw combat action during the [[War of Dagestan|1999 Chechen invasion of Dagestan]] instead of being delivered to India. The tank's survivability against [[rocket-propelled grenade]]s (RPGs) is disputed. [[Gordon L. Rottman]] writes that T-90s were "frequently" knocked out by three or four hits from a [[RPG-7]]. He adds that Chechens found a way to compromise T-90s fitted with [[explosive reactive armor]]: they would fire an RPG-7 from close range (within 50m) to trigger the explosive reactive armor protection, and then re-attack the exposed tank armour underneath with two or more RPG hits, again from close range.<ref>{{cite book|title=The Rocket Propelled Grenade|series=Weapon 2|first=Gordon L.|last=Rottman|author-link=Gordon L. Rottman|year=2010|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NDa1CwAAQBAJ|isbn=978-1-84908-153-5|publisher=Osprey Publishing|page=65|access-date=3 August 2022|archive-date=13 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230913151113/https://books.google.com/books?id=NDa1CwAAQBAJ|url-status=live}}</ref>

On the other hand, ''[[Moscow Defense Brief]]'' gives the example of one T-90 that remained in action despite being hit by seven RPGs. The journal concluded that with regular equipment, the upgraded T-90 seems to be the best protected Russian tank, especially with the implementation of Shtora-1 and [[Arena (countermeasure)|Arena]] defensive systems.<ref name="mdb_chechnya">{{cite journal|last=Pashin |first=Alexander |title=Russian Army Operations and Weaponry During Second Military Campaign in Chechnya |journal=[[Moscow Defense Brief]] |publisher=Centre for Analysis of Strategies and Technologies |issue=3/2002 |url=http://mdb.cast.ru/mdb/3-2002/ac/raowdsmcc/ |access-date=29 May 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140501050127/http://mdb.cast.ru/mdb/3-2002/ac/raowdsmcc/ |archive-date=1 May 2014}}</ref>

The T-90A was deployed to [[Syria]] in 2015 to support the Russian involvement in the [[Syrian Civil War]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/the-tanks-russia-is-sending-to-syria-2015-9|title=The tanks Russia is sending to Syria|author=Jeremy Bender|date=15 September 2015|work=Business Insider|access-date=29 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160106134827/http://www.businessinsider.com/the-tanks-russia-is-sending-to-syria-2015-9|archive-date=6 January 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

In September 2020, a [[Russia]]n T-90 was accidentally hit by an [[anti-tank guided missile]] (ATGM) during exercises held in Russia's [[Astrakhan]] region causing serious damage to the vehicle.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.defenseworld.net/news/27868/T_90_Tank_Accidentally_Hit_by_Missile_During_Russian_Exercise |title=T-90 Tank Accidentally Hit by Missile During Russian Exercise |date=17 November 2020 |access-date=18 September 2020 |archive-date=19 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200919162801/https://www.defenseworld.net/news/27868/T_90_Tank_Accidentally_Hit_by_Missile_During_Russian_Exercise |url-status=live }}</ref>

====Russo-Ukrainian War====
[[File:Tank-vladimir-3.jpg|thumb|Destroyed Russian T-90A in [[Zaporizhzhia Oblast]]]]
[[File:Destroyed T-90M of Russian Army 3.jpg|thumb|Russian T-90M tank, destroyed in the [[Kharkiv Oblast|Kharkiv]] region by a [[Carl Gustaf 8.4 cm recoilless rifle|Carl Gustaf]]]]
During the [[War in Donbas (2014–2022)|war in Donbas]] stage of the [[Russo-Ukrainian War]] in the summer of 2014, elements of the Russian [[136th Guards Motor Rifle Brigade]] equipped with T-90A tanks conducting operations in [[Luhansk Oblast]] of Ukraine were identified in social media posts, and locations of their photographs were geolocated by open-source investigators.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Tankspotting: T-90As in the Donbass|url=https://www.bellingcat.com/news/uk-and-europe/2017/04/02/tankspotting-t-90as-donbass/|date=2 April 2017|work=bellingcat|access-date=3 June 2018|archive-date=5 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170405101815/https://www.bellingcat.com/news/uk-and-europe/2017/04/02/tankspotting-t-90as-donbass/|url-status=live}}</ref>

During the full-scale [[Russian invasion of Ukraine]] beginning in February 2022, by 12 May, a T-90 was reported to have been destroyed by a Swedish [[Carl Gustaf 8.4 cm recoilless rifle|Carl Gustaf]] man-portable anti-tank grenade launcher in [[Kharkiv]].<ref name="Suciu 2022 d380">{{cite web | last=Suciu | first=Peter | title=Tank Deathmatch: Russia's T-90M vs. Carl Gustav Rocket Launcher (Who Wins?) | website=19FortyFive | date=12 May 2022 | url=https://www.19fortyfive.com/2022/05/tank-deathmatch-russias-t-90m-vs-carl-gustav-rocket-launcher-who-wins/ | access-date=30 August 2023 | archive-date=13 May 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220513164901/https://www.19fortyfive.com/2022/05/tank-deathmatch-russias-t-90m-vs-carl-gustav-rocket-launcher-who-wins/ | url-status=live }}</ref>

During this conflict, the T-90 has faced and been destroyed by many types of anti-tank missiles, including modern "[[top attack]]" missiles such as the American-produced [[FGM-148 Javelin]] and the Anglo-Swedish [[NLAW]].<ref name="auto">{{Cite web |date=6 May 2022 |title=One Of Russia's Most Advanced Tanks Has Been Destroyed Just Days After Being Deployed |url=https://www.ladbible.com/news/latest-russia-advanced-tanks-destroyed-days-after-deployment-20220506.amp.html |access-date=7 May 2022 |archive-date=7 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220507100059/https://www.ladbible.com/news/latest-russia-advanced-tanks-destroyed-days-after-deployment-20220506.amp.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="auto1">{{Cite web |date=7 May 2022 |title=Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine – 07 May 2022 |url=https://mobile.twitter.com/DefenceHQ/status/1522815718999289856 |access-date=7 May 2022 |archive-date=7 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220507215310/https://mobile.twitter.com/defencehq/status/1522815718999289856 |url-status=live }}</ref> The Arena system has not appeared in Ukraine and it is unclear if the system has met expectations.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bryen |first=Stephen |date=7 June 2022 |title=Russia's tanks in Ukraine are old, obsolete and failing |url=https://asiatimes.com/2022/06/russias-tanks-in-ukraine-are-old-obsolete-and-failing/ |access-date=25 June 2023 |website=Asia Times |language=en-US |archive-date=13 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213031324/https://asiatimes.com/2022/06/russias-tanks-in-ukraine-are-old-obsolete-and-failing/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In January 2024, in fighting around [[Stepove, Donetsk Oblast|Stepove]], two [[M2 Bradley|Bradley Fighting Vehicle]]s (BFV) from the [[47th Mechanized Brigade (Ukraine)|Ukrainian 47th Separate Mechanized Brigade]] engaged a T-90M. The tank was disabled by the Bradleys, and its crew escaped before a [[FPV drone]] destroyed the tank.<ref>{{Cite web |author= HOWARD ALTMAN|date=18 January 2024 |title=Armor Experts Breakdown Video Of Ukrainian M2 Bradley Mauling Russian T-90M Tank|url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/armor-experts-breakdown-video-of-ukrainian-m2-bradley-mauling-russian-t-90m-tank|access-date=20 January 2024 |website=The War Zone |language=en-US }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |author= Chris Panella |date=18 January 2024 |title=New video shows a US-made Bradley fighting vehicle hammering a T-90M, what Putin has called 'the world's best tank'|url=https://www.businessinsider.com/video-us-bradley-fighting-vehicle-hammers-russian-t-90m-tank-2024-1|access-date=20 January 2024 |website=Business Insider |language=en-US }}</ref>

In late September 2024, reports backed by images shared on social media showed a destroyed T-90M that lacked [[Kontakt-5|Relikt]] ERA. The ERA bricks had been replaced by "construction bricks".<ref>{{cite web |author= Boyko Nikolov |title= Russia puts building bricks on a T-90M Proryv tank as an armor |url= https://bulgarianmilitary.com/amp/2024/11/07/russia-puts-building-bricks-on-a-t-90m-proryv-tank-as-an-armor/ |date=7 November 2024|access-date=11 November 2024 |website= bulgarianmilitary }}</ref>

As of 9 May 2025, the [[Oryx (website)|Oryx]] blog had documented that Russia had lost at least 187 T-90s since the start of the  Russian invasion of Ukraine (visually confirmed), including 42 T-90A (of which 29 were destroyed, 3 abandoned, 10 captured), 1 T-90AK (captured and later destroyed), 11 T-90S (9 destroyed, 1 abandoned, 1 captured) and 134 T-90M (80 destroyed, 17 damaged, 30 abandoned, 7 captured).<ref name=":1">{{cite web |last1=Mitzer |first1=Stijn |last2=Janovsky |first2=Jakub |title=Attack On Europe: Documenting Russian Equipment Losses During The 2022 Russian Invasion Of Ukraine |url=https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2022/02/attack-on-europe-documenting-equipment.html#:~:text=33-,T%2D90A,-%3A%C2%A0(1%2C%20destroyed |access-date=6 February 2025 |website=Oryx |publisher=Oryxspioenkop |archive-date=14 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240114121703/https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2022/02/attack-on-europe-documenting-equipment.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Syrian service===
In early February 2016, [[Syrian Army]] forces began using T-90As in combat.<ref name="NIT90">{{cite web|url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/reboot/what-happened-when-russia-sent-its-t-90-tank-syria-182146|title=What Happened When Russia Sent Its T-90 Tank To Syria?|date=7 April 2021|first=Sebastien|last=Roblin|work=National Interest|access-date=16 February 2022|archive-date=22 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422134648/https://nationalinterest.org/blog/reboot/what-happened-when-russia-sent-its-t-90-tank-syria-182146|url-status=live}}</ref> A video was leaked on the internet which showed a T-90 survive a direct frontal turret hit by a [[BGM-71 TOW|TOW]] missile in Aleppo.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/checkpoint/wp/2016/02/26/watch-u-s-made-missile-goes-up-against-one-of-russias-most-advanced-tanks/|title=WATCH: U.S.-made missile goes up against one of Russia's most advanced tanks|newspaper=The Washington Post|date=26 February 2016|access-date=7 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160309093644/https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/checkpoint/wp/2016/02/26/watch-u-s-made-missile-goes-up-against-one-of-russias-most-advanced-tanks/|archive-date=9 March 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> The Kontakt-5 reactive armor discharged the TOW warhead before impact.<ref name="NIT90"/> Two Syrian Army operated T-90 were captured by HTS militias while ISIS fighters captured a third in November 2017. A rebel operated T-90 was recaptured by Syrian government forces while the second was reportedly destroyed in combat by a T-72. Another 5 Syrian Army operated T-90 tanks were knocked out or heavily damaged and 4 others suffered hits, according to recorded material.<ref name="NIT90"/>

===Azerbaijani service===
[[Azerbaijan]] used their T-90S tanks during the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. One T-90 was damaged and captured by [[Armenia]]n forces.<ref>{{Cite web|url = https://hingshabti.am/2020/10/02/t90/|title = Ադրբեջանական ոչնչացված Տ-90 տանկի լուսանկարները|date = 2 October 2020|access-date = 19 October 2020|archive-date = 22 October 2020|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20201022073923/https://hingshabti.am/2020/10/02/t90/|url-status = live}}</ref> At least two were confirmed destroyed in the initial phases of the war, being the first ever proven total loss of the combat vehicle.<ref name="MKT90s"/><ref name="ForbesT90s">{{cite web|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/sebastienroblin/2020/10/23/what-open-source-evidence-tells-us-about-the-nagorno-karabakh-war/?sh=1743b8526f4b|title=What Open Source Evidence Tells Us About The Nagorno-Karabakh War|work=Forbes|first=Sebastien|last=Roblin|date=23 October 2020|access-date=26 November 2021|archive-date=26 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211126190333/https://www.forbes.com/sites/sebastienroblin/2020/10/23/what-open-source-evidence-tells-us-about-the-nagorno-karabakh-war/?sh=1743b8526f4b|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Export==
===India===
{{more citations needed section|date=December 2016}}
[[File:IA T-90 in action.jpg|thumb|[[Indian Army]] T-90 ''Bhishma'' tanks take part in a military training exercise in the [[Thar Desert]], Rajasthan. The tanks have two different turret armor arrays.]]
[[File:T-90-Bhisma.jpg|thumb|A T-90 Bhisma during combat exercise]]
The T-90S ''Bhishma'' (named after [[Bhishma|the guardian warrior]] in the ''[[Mahabharata]]'') is a vehicle tailored for Indian service, improving upon the T-90S, and developed with assistance from Russia and France. The tanks are equipped with the French Thales-built Catherine-FC thermal sights.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dunnigan |first=James |date=24 June 2006 |title=Get the T-90s Out of the Kitchen |url=http://www.strategypage.com/dls/articles2006/2006624232423.asp |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080611231253/http://www.strategypage.com/dls/articles2006/2006624232423.asp |archive-date=11 June 2008 |website=Strategy Page}}</ref> They use Russian [[Kontakt-5]] [[explosive reactive armour]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ipcs.org/pdf_file/issue/2047159894IB19-Mallika-T-90sBishma.pdf |title=T-90S "Bhishma" |publisher=ipcs.org |date=1 February 2004 |access-date=23 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120407030555/http://www.ipcs.org/pdf_file/issue/2047159894IB19-Mallika-T-90sBishma.pdf |archive-date=7 April 2012 |url-status=live}}</ref> in addition to the primary armor, which consists of laminated plates and ceramic layers with high-tensile properties. The new welded turrets first developed for the Indian T-90S Bhishma have more advanced armour protection than the early cast turrets.<ref>{{Cite web |date=3 July 2020 |title=T-90 "Bhishma" Tanks in Ladakh – A Comprehensive Look |url=https://airpowerasia.com/2020/07/03/t-90-bhishma-tanks-in-ladakh-a-comprehensive-look/ |access-date=28 March 2022 |website=Air Power Asia |language=en |archive-date=24 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220124201835/https://airpowerasia.com/2020/07/03/t-90-bhishma-tanks-in-ladakh-a-comprehensive-look/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

The later T-90M features the 'Kaktus K-6' bolted explosive reactive armour (ERA) package on its frontal hull and turret-top (the T-90S has 'Kontakt-5' ERA), is fitted with an enhanced environmental control system supplied by Israel's Kinetics Ltd for providing cooled air to the fighting compartment, has additional internal volume for housing the [[Cryogenics|cryogenic cooling]] systems for new-generation [[thermal imager]]s like the [[Thales Group|THALES]]-built Catherine-FC thermal imager (operating in the 8–12 micrometre bandwidth).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Battle Tanks used by the Indian Army {{!}} Team-BHP |url=https://www.team-bhp.com/news/battle-tanks-used-indian-army |access-date=2025-03-21 |website=Team-BHP.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-07-03 |title=T-90 "Bhishma" Tanks in Ladakh – A Comprehensive Look |url=https://airpowerasia.com/2020/07/03/t-90-bhishma-tanks-in-ladakh-a-comprehensive-look/ |access-date=2025-03-21 |website=Air Power Asia |language=en}}</ref>

==== Orders and deliveries ====

# In 2001, India purchased 310 T-90S tanks from Russia, of which 124 were delivered complete (42 featured the early cast turrets seen on Russian tanks) and 186 were to be assembled from kits delivered in various stages of completion with an emphasis on shifting production to domestic means. The T-90 was selected because it is a direct development of the T-72 that India already manufactured, simplifying training and maintenance. India opted to acquire the T-90 to counter Pakistani deployment of the Ukrainian-made [[T-80]] tank in 1995–97.<ref>{{harvnb|Zaloga|2018|pages=18,20}}</ref> These T-90S tanks were made by [[Uralvagonzavod]] and the engines were delivered by [[Chelyabinsk Tractor Plant]]. The Indian tanks however omit the [[Shtora-1]] passive electronic countermeasure system which was deemed obsolete.
# A follow-on contract, worth [[US$]]800 million, was signed in October 2006, for another 330 T-90S ''Bhishma'' MBTs that were to be manufactured in India by [[Heavy Vehicles Factory]] at [[Avadi]], Tamil Nadu.{{citation needed|date=July 2024}}
# A third contract, worth $1.23 billion, was signed in December 2007 for 347 upgraded T-90Ms, most to be licence-assembled by HVF. The Army hoped to field a force of over 21 regiments of T-90 tanks and 40 regiments of modified T-72s. The Indian Army began receiving its first T-90M main battle tank in completely knocked-down form from Russia's Nizhny Tagil-based Uralvagonzavod JSC at the end of 2009.<ref>{{cite web|author=RIA Novosti Dmitry Korobeinikov |url=http://www.en.beta.rian.ru/mlitary_news/20090824/155910756.html |title=Indian army receives first T-90 tanks made under Russian license |publisher=RIA Novosti |date=24 August 2009 |access-date=7 February 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090904203207/http://en.beta.rian.ru/mlitary_news/20090824/155910756.html |archive-date=4 September 2009}}</ref> The first batch of 10 T-90Ms built under licence was inducted into the Indian Army in August 2009. These vehicles were built at the Heavy Vehicles Factory at Avadi, Tamil Nadu. HVF planned to produce 100 units of the tank per year while India already had 700 units of the tank in service.<ref>{{Cite web |last=PTI |date=24 August 2009 |title=First batch of T-90 tanks handed over to Army |url=https://www.livemint.com/Politics/Uj6kaGAq2PQURrstPMXsCL/First-batch-of-T90-tanks-handed-over-to-Army.html |access-date=28 March 2022 |website=mint |language=en |archive-date=28 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220328161440/https://www.livemint.com/Politics/Uj6kaGAq2PQURrstPMXsCL/First-batch-of-T90-tanks-handed-over-to-Army.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
# A {{INRConvert|10000|c}} purchase of 354 new T-90SM tanks for six tank regiments for the [[Line of Actual Control|China border]] was being planned in 2012,<ref name="Business Standard">{{cite news |url=http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/army-scuttles-arjun-trials-to-push-through-russian-t-90-purchase/493676/ |title=Army scuttles Arjun trials to push through Russian T-90 purchase |newspaper=[[Business Standard]] India |publisher=Business Standard |date=26 November 2012 |access-date=29 November 2012 |last1=Shukla |first1=Ajai |archive-date=12 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210212234001/https://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/army-scuttles-arjun-trials-to-push-through-russian-t-90-purchase-112112602007_1.html |url-status=live }}</ref> making India, with a total of nearly 4,500 tanks (T-90 and variants, T-72 and Arjun MBT) in active service, the world's third-largest operator of tanks.
# In November 2019, India announced that Heavy Vehicles Factory would produce 464 T-90 MBTs for 10 tank regiments.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/indian-mod-awards-ofb-usd28-billion-contract-to-licence-build-464-additional-t-90s-mbts |title=Indian MoD awards OFB USD2.8 billion contract to licence-build 464 additional T-90S MBTs |website=[[Janes.com]] |date=11 November 2019 |access-date=27 February 2022 |archive-date=27 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220227100632/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/indian-mod-awards-ofb-usd28-billion-contract-to-licence-build-464-additional-t-90s-mbts |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=2019-11-08 |title=464 Bhishma tanks to made in Tamil Nadu's Avadi |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/rs-20000-crore-worth-orders-placed-to-get-464-t90s/articleshow/71963553.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406045714/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/rs-20000-crore-worth-orders-placed-to-get-464-t90s/articleshow/71963553.cms |archive-date=6 April 2024 |access-date=31 August 2024 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> On 13 May 2024, Heavy Vehicles Factory delivered the first batch of 10 units of ''Bhishma'' Mk. 3, which is a more advanced variant of T-90, as a part of the 464 tank deal signed in 2019. The rest of 454 tanks will be delivered within five years.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |date=14 May 2024 |title=ऑटोट्रैकर, एंटी-थर्मल आईआर कोटिंग से लैस है टी-90 भीष्म टैंक का नया वर्जन, जंग में दुश्मनों के छुड़ाएगा छक्के |url=https://www.aajtak.in/defence-news/story/t-90-bhishma-mark-3-tanks-rolls-out-know-the-specification-and-fire-power-1943757-2024-05-14 |access-date=27 May 2024 |website=आज तक |language=hi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Suciu |first=Peter |date=15 June 2024 |title=T-90 Mk-III: India Is Now Building Russian Tanks |url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/t-90-mk-iii-india-now-building-russian-tanks-211462 |access-date=17 June 2024 |website=The National Interest |language=en}}</ref>

In 2013, India planned to have 21 T-90 tank regiments by 2020, with 45 combat tanks and 17 training and replacement tanks per regiment.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2013-09-04 |title=Armor: Indian T-90s Get 5,000 Meter Reach |url=http://www.strategypage.com/htmw/htarm/articles/20130904.aspx |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130907050653/http://www.strategypage.com/htmw/htarm/articles/20130904.aspx |archive-date=2013-09-07 |access-date=2025-03-21 |website=www.strategypage.com}}</ref> In the 2020s, the number of planned tanks was increased to 1,657.<ref name=":4">{{Cite news |date=2025-03-21 |title=Modernisation proposals worth Rs 54,000 crore get ministry of defence’s initial nod |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/modernisation-proposals-worth-rs-54000-crore-get-ministry-of-defences-initial-nod/articleshow/119278163.cms |access-date=2025-03-21 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>

==== Upgrades ====

* '''Commander sight''': On 25 February 2022, The Acquisition Wing of the Defence Ministry has signed a contract valued at Rs.1,075 crore with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) to retro-modify 957 T-90s with advanced Mid Wave Thermal Image (MWIR), which will replace the existing Image Converter (IC)-based commander sight.<ref>{{Cite web |date=25 February 2022 |title=India's T-90 main battle tank to be fitted with indigenously developed commander sight |url=https://frontline.thehindu.com/dispatches/indias-t-90-main-battle-tank-to-be-fitted-with-indigenously-developed-commander-sight/article65220244.ece |access-date=19 August 2024 |website=Frontline |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Commander Thermal Imaging Sight for T-90 Tank |url=https://bel-india.in/product/commander-thermal-imaging-sight-for-t-90-tank/ |access-date=19 August 2024 |website=BEL |language=en-US}}</ref>
* '''[[Active protection system]]''': In 2021, the Indian army was looking to upgrade its T-90 tank fleet with locally built modular Active Protection, with both soft kill and hard kill systems, to update the tanks to modern standards.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Indian Army seeks active protection systems for its T-90S/SK MBTs|first1=Rahul|last1=Bedi|first2=Mark|last2=Cazalet|url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/indian-army-seeks-active-protection-systems-for-its-t-90ssk-mbts|date=16 April 2021|website=Janes|language=en|access-date=28 March 2022|archive-date=26 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220226071503/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/indian-army-seeks-active-protection-systems-for-its-t-90ssk-mbts|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Mohan |first=Vijay |title=Army moves to identify Indian partners to develop advanced protection system for tanks |url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/army-moves-to-identify-indian-partners-to-develop-advanced-protection-system-for-tanks-239434 |date=15 April 2021 |website=Tribuneindia News Service |language=en |access-date=28 March 2022 |archive-date=28 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220328162549/https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/army-moves-to-identify-indian-partners-to-develop-advanced-protection-system-for-tanks-239434 |url-status=live }}</ref> On 3 February 2025, the Army released a [[Request for Information]] (RFI) to identify prospective vendors for the development of an active protection system for the T-90S/SK tank fleet. While [[explosive reactive armour]] protects the tanks from [[shoulder-fired missile]], an APS is important for protection from [[tandem warhead]]s in [[top-attack]] mode. The system being offered must feature Soft Kill, Hard Kill and Counter [[Unmanned Aerial System]] (C-UAS) measures and without compromising it's existing capabilities. It should be capable of detecting detecting all types of UAS (including loitering UAVs, [[FPV drone|first person view]] (FPV), [[Swarm drone|swarm]], and [[Kamikaze drones]]) as well as all kinds of [[Anti-tank weapon|anti-tank projectiles]] (like [[anti-tank guided missile]]s, [[rocket-propelled grenade]]s and chemical and [[Kinetic energy penetrator|kinetic energy munitions]]). The document stated that the system should not compromise the mobility of the vehicle and be operable in high altitude terrains. The [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]] (DRDO) has started work on a similar systems in 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Philip |first=Snehesh Alex |date=2025-02-04 |title=Lessons from Russia-Ukraine war makes Indian Army seek Active Protection System for T-90 tanks |url=https://theprint.in/defence/lessons-from-russia-ukraine-war-makes-indian-army-seek-active-protection-system-for-t-90-tanks/2478888/ |access-date=2025-02-05 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US}}</ref>
* '''Bhishma Mk. 3 variant:''' In May 2024, Heavy Vehicles Factory unveiled the Bhishma Mk. 3 variant of T-90. Enhancements included increase in indigenous content and several upgrades. The upgrades included advanced Mid Wave [[Thermographic camera|Thermal Image]]-based sighting systems (8&nbsp;km range) and [[Laser rangefinder|Laser Range Finder]] (LRF; 5&nbsp;km range) for commanders developed by [[Defence Research and Development Organisation|DRDO]] and [[Bharat Electronics|BEL]] (replacing Image Converter tube-based sight on older versions), a Digital Ballistic Computer to improve ammunition trajectory (derived from that of [[Arjun (tank)|Arjun MBT]]), Automatic Target Tracker. It is also expected that the new variant tanks will feature new generation ammunition like [[Armour-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot|FSAPDS]] Mk2 (originally developed for Arjun MBT), and cannon-launched [[SAMHO]] missiles that is under development. Reports also suggest the use of a more efficient and powerful engine. There are plans for further upgradation of the T-90 tanks by including indigenous [[Active protection system|Active Protection Systems]], [[Loitering munition|Loitering Munitions]] and more advanced ammunitions.<ref>{{Cite web |date=13 May 2024 |title=Unveiling the T-90 Mark III - alphadefense.in |url=https://alphadefense.in/index.php/2024/05/13/unveiling-the-t-90-mark-iii/ |access-date=28 May 2024 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Deshpande |first=Smruti |date=18 December 2023 |title=How Automatic Target Tracker & Digital Ballistic Computer will give Army's T-90 tanks the edge |url=https://theprint.in/defence/how-automatic-target-tracker-digital-ballistic-computer-will-give-armys-t-90-tanks-the-edge/1890266/ |access-date=28 May 2024 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=13 June 2024 |title=India rolls out T-90 Mk-III tanks |url=https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/defence/india-rolls-out-t-90-mk-iii-tanks |access-date=17 June 2024 |website=Janes |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | last=Linganna | first=Girish | title=T-90 Mk-III Arsenal: Atmanirbhar Ascendancy Elevates India's Defence – Analysis | website=Eurasia Review | date=15 June 2024 | url=https://www.eurasiareview.com/15062024-t-90-mk-iii-arsenal-atmanirbhar-ascendancy-elevates-indias-defence-analysis/ | access-date=17 June 2024}}</ref> India started the licensed production of Russian tank rounds 3VBM17 used by the T-72 and T-90 tanks in July 2024.
* '''Overhaul''': On 7 October 2024, the [[Indian Army Corps of EME|Indian Army Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers]] completed the first complete overhaul of the T-90 Bhishma at the 505 Army Base Workshop in [[Delhi Cantonment]]. The overhauled T-90 belongs to the first batch of such tanks received by India. This significantly extends the series life in service with the army.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Singh |first=Rahul |date=7 October 2024 |title=Indian Army rolls out its first overhauled T-90 'Bhishma' tank |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/indian-army-rolls-out-its-first-overhauled-t-90-bhishma-tank-101728313383363-amp.html |access-date=7 October 2024 |website=Hindustan Times}}</ref>
* '''Engine upgrade''': On 20 March 2025, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) cleared the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the procurement of {{Convert|1350|hp|abbr=on}} engines for T-90 tanks to improve the [[power-to-weight ratio]] and increase mobility in high-altitude regions.<ref>{{Cite news |date=20 March 2025 |title=DAC clears capital acquisition proposals worth over Rs 54,000 crore to enhance defence capabilities |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2113268 |access-date=20 March 2025 |work=[[Press Information Bureau]]}}</ref>

===Other===
In 2005, deliveries began for an initial order of 185 tanks for [[Algeria]]. These are known as the '''T-90SA''' ("A" is an acronym for Algeria).

The Cyprus House Defence Committee approved funds in January 2009 for the purchase of 41 Russian-built T-90 tanks. The money was included as part of the 2009 defence budget. [[Cyprus]] already operates the Russian-made T-80 tank.<ref>"[http://www.defenseworld.net/news/2589/www.dimdex.com#.UvHg3tKBkQM Greek-Cypriots to Buy Russian Tanks, Considering Missile Purchases] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222202119/http://www.defenseworld.net/news/2589/www.dimdex.com#.UvHg3tKBkQM |date=2014-02-22}}", defenseworld.net, 12 January 2009.</ref> In March 2010 it was reported that Cyprus had opted for 41 additional T-80s instead of purchasing T-90s.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.kommersant.ru/doc.aspx?DocsID=1336944|script-title=ru:Новую оружейную сделку с Россией обнародовал Кипр|date=13 March 2010|language=ru |work=[[Kommersant]]|access-date=17 March 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101024041717/http://kommersant.ru/doc.aspx?DocsID=1336944|archive-date=24 October 2010|url-status=live}}</ref>

Anonymous [[Venezuela]]n defence sources said that president [[Hugo Chavez]] "wants to replace his army's obsolete [[AMX-30]] main battle tanks with between 50 and 100 Russian-built T-90 main battle tanks", according to an October 2008 article by analyst Jack Sweeney.<ref>Jack Sweeney "[http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Analysis_Venezuela_buys_Russian_tanks_999.html Venezuela buys Russian aircraft, tanks to boost power] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081019072016/http://www.spacewar.com/reports/Analysis_Venezuela_buys_Russian_tanks_999.html |date=2008-10-19}}". UPI.com, 15 October 2008.</ref> In September 2009 a deal was announced for 92 T-72s only.<ref name="rusbiznews">{{cite web|url=http://www.rusbiznews.com/news/n521.html|title=Venezuela Will Load Urals Defence Plants With Work|publisher=Rus Business News|date=16 September 2009|access-date=10 October 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110715214927/http://www.rusbiznews.com/news/n521.html|archive-date=15 July 2011|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Saudi Arabia]] was reported, in July 2008, by Russian daily ''[[Kommersant]]'' to be in negotiations to buy 150 T-90 tanks.<ref>{{cite web |first=Guy |last=Faulconbridge |url=http://www.iht.com/articles/reuters/2008/07/15/europe/OUKWD-UK-RUSSIA-SAUDI-IRAN.php |title=Saudi offers Russia arms deal to curb Iran ties |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081207022651/http://www.iht.com/articles/reuters/2008/07/15/europe/OUKWD-UK-RUSSIA-SAUDI-IRAN.php |archive-date=7 December 2008 |publisher=Reuters |date=15 July 2008}}</ref> [[Lebanon|Lebanese]] Defence Minister Elias El Murr met with Russian Defence Minister [[Anatoly Serdyukov]] in December 2008, when they discussed the possibility of a transfer of military equipment including T-90 tanks.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://nowlebanon.com/NewsArticleDetails.aspx?ID=71161&MID=101&PID=2|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120711193908/http://nowlebanon.com/NewsArticleDetails.aspx?ID=71161&MID=101&PID=2|url-status=dead |archive-date=11 July 2012|title=Lebanese press round-up: December 17, 2008|date=17 December 2008|work=An-nahar Newspaper|publisher=NOW Lebanon|access-date=8 January 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/128915|title=Russia to Sell Lebanon Advanced Jets 'at Discount'|last=Ronen|first=Gil|date=17 December 2008|publisher=Israel National News|access-date=8 January 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090119194312/http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/128915|archive-date=19 January 2009|url-status=live}}</ref>

In February 2010, an arms deal was signed between [[Libya]] and Russia. Details of the sale were not immediately released, but a Russian diplomat stated that Libya had wanted 20 fighter planes, air defence systems, and may also be interested in purchasing "several dozen" T-90s, and modernising a further 140 T-72s. However, after Libya's [[2011 Libyan civil war|crackdown on anti-government protesters]] in early 2011, the United Nations enacted an international arms embargo on Libya resulting in the cancellation of Russian arms deals.<ref>{{cite news|title=Libya strikes billion-dollar Russian arms deal|date=30 January 2010|agency=AFP |url=https://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5gfD8flAiDdWsWrzZBvi9qygPkXMw |access-date=12 November 2016|url-status=dead|archive-date=15 June 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130615194131/http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5gfD8flAiDdWsWrzZBvi9qygPkXMw}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE60T1ED20100130 |title=Libya, Russia agree $1.8-billion arms deal: Putin|date=30 January 2010|publisher=Reuters|access-date=2 July 2017|url-status=live|archive-date=26 March 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100326234139/http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE60T1ED20100130}}</ref>

In April 2013, [[Rosoboronexport]] requested for the entry of the T-90S in an upcoming tender by the [[Peruvian Army]] for main battle tanks.<ref>[http://dmilt.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6488:peru-main-battle-tanks-new-contestants-emerge&catid=35:latin-america&Itemid=58 Peru; Main Battle Tanks- new contestants emerge] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131002191715/http://dmilt.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6488:peru-main-battle-tanks-new-contestants-emerge&catid=35:latin-america&Itemid=58 |date=2 October 2013}} – Dmilt.com, 30 April 2013</ref> Peru sought to acquire between 120 and 170 tanks to replace its aging [[T-55]] tanks. The T-90 was tested against the [[M1 Abrams|M1A1 Abrams]] from the [[United States]], the [[Leopard 2]]A4 offered from the [[Spanish Army]], Leopard 2A6s formerly operated by the [[Dutch Army]], and T-64s and [[T-84]]s offered by Ukraine. By September 2013, only the T-90S, the Russian T-80, the Ukrainian T-84, and American M1A1 were still competing.<ref>[http://dmilt.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=7865:peru-future-main-battle-tank-projects-lags-on-despite-criticism&catid=35:latin-america&Itemid=58 Peru; Future main battle tank projects lags on despite criticism] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130928033434/http://dmilt.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=7865%3Aperu-future-main-battle-tank-projects-lags-on-despite-criticism&catid=35%3Alatin-america&Itemid=58 |date=28 September 2013}} – Dmilt.com, 2 September 2013</ref>

Vietnam and Iraq signed contracts for at least 150 T-90S/SK tanks in 2016.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://tass.com/trade-cooperation/954768 |title=Russia's defense contractor to supply tanks to Iraq and Vietnam in 2017 |access-date=6 July 2017 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20170726134951/http://tass.com/trade-cooperation/954768 |archive-date=26 July 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref>

==Design==
===Armament===
[[File:Firing T-90A main battle tank.jpg|thumb|A T-90A tank firing its main gun at Engineering Technologies 2012]]
[[File:2A46M1 in Motovilikha Plants museum 2.jpg|thumb|The T-90 tank's main tank gun, the [[2A46|2A46M 125 mm smoothbore tank gun]]]]
{{external media|video1={{YouTube|ipc9BBodqC8|Autoloader animation}}}}
The T-90's main armament is the [[2A46]]M 125mm [[smoothbore]] tank gun. This is a highly modified version of the [[Sprut anti-tank gun]], and is the same gun used as the main armament on the T-80-series tanks. It can be replaced without dismantling the inner turret and can fire [[armour-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot]] (APFSDS), [[high-explosive anti-tank]] (HEAT-FS), [[high-explosive fragmentation]] (HE-FRAG) ammunition, and [[9M119M Refleks]] anti-tank guided missiles. The Refleks has [[semi-automatic command to line of sight]] (SACLOS) laser [[beam riding]] guidance and a [[Tandem-charge|tandem]] [[shaped charge]] HEAT warhead. It has an effective range of 100 m to 6&nbsp;km, and takes 17.5 seconds to reach maximum range. Refleks can penetrate about {{convert|950|mm}} of steel [[rolled homogeneous armour]] (RHA) and can also engage low-flying air targets such as [[helicopter]]s.{{citation needed|date=February 2023}}

The [[NSV machine gun|NSV]] 12.7mm ([[12.7×108mm|12.7×108]]) [[teleoperation|remotely controlled]] [[Anti-aircraft warfare|anti-aircraft]] [[heavy machine gun]] can be operated from within the tank by the commander and has a range of 2&nbsp;km and a cyclic [[rate of fire]] of 700–800 rounds per minute with 300 rounds available (the NSV was replaced by the [[Kord machine gun|Kord heavy machine gun]] in the late 1990s). The [[PK machine gun|PKMT]] 7.62mm ([[7.62×54mmR]]) [[coaxial gun|coaxial machine gun]] weighs about 10.5&nbsp;kg while the ammunition box carries 250 rounds (2,000 rounds carried) and weighs an additional 9.5&nbsp;kg.{{citation needed|date=February 2023}}

Like other modern Russian tanks the 2A46M in the T-90 is fed by an [[Autoloader|automatic loader]] which removes the need for a manual loader in the tank and reduces the crew to 3 (commander, gunner, and driver). The autoloader can carry 22 ready-to-fire rounds in its carousel and can load a round in 5–8 seconds.{{citation needed|date=February 2023}} It has been suggested that the automatic loaders on modern T-90 tanks have been modified to take advantage of newer ammunition such as the [[125 mm smoothbore ammunition#3VBM19/3BM42M (3BM44M)|3BM-44M]] APFSDS, which like the US [[M829 (munition)#M829A3|M829A3]] penetrates armour better than the previous shorter rounds. HEAT rounds that can be fired from the 2A46M includes the [[125 mm smoothbore ammunition#3BK21B|3BK21B]] (with a [[depleted uranium]] liner), [[125 mm smoothbore ammunition#3VBK25/3BK29|3BK29]] (with a credited penetration of 800mm RHA equivalency), and the [[125 mm smoothbore ammunition#3VBK27?/3BK29M|3BK29M]] (with a Triple-tandem charge warhead). Additionally the T-90 features the Ainet [[smart grenade|fuse setting system]] which allows the tank to detonate [[125 mm smoothbore ammunition#3VOF36/3OF26|3OF26]] HE-FRAG rounds at a specific distance from the tank as determined by the gunner's [[laser rangefinder]], improving its performance against helicopters and [[infantry]].<ref>{{cite web |title=125mm APERS And Special Rounds |publisher=Fofanov.armor.kiev.ua |url=http://fofanov.armor.kiev.ua/Tanks/ARM/apers/ammo.html |access-date=8 July 2010 |url-status=live |archive-date=4 December 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101204130029/http://fofanov.armor.kiev.ua/Tanks/ARM/apers/ammo.html}}</ref> Accurate firing range of the HE-Frag-FS 10&nbsp;km, APFSDS 4&nbsp;km.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://dokwar.ru/publ/bronetekhnika/sravnenie_tankov_altay_leopard_2a_t_90/13-1-0-45|title=Сравнение танков – Altay, Leopard 2a, Т-90|access-date=15 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006081430/http://dokwar.ru/publ/bronetekhnika/sravnenie_tankov_altay_leopard_2a_t_90/13-1-0-45|archive-date=6 October 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Fire-control system of the T-90 showed the following features of combat shooting during state testing. Heavily armoured targets at ranges of up to 5&nbsp;km were hit by tank T-90 on the move (up to 30&nbsp;km/h) with a high probability of hit with the first shot. During state testing made 24 launches of missiles at ranges of 4–5&nbsp;km and they all hit the target (all missile launches were made by inexperienced professionals). An experienced gunner at speeds of 25&nbsp;km/h hit 7 real armoured targets located at ranges of 1,500–2,500 m and 54sec.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://armor.kiev.ua/Tanks/Modern/T90/t90_1.php|title=T-90|access-date=15 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141127215530/http://armor.kiev.ua/Tanks/Modern/T90/t90_1.php|archive-date=27 November 2014|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sinopa.ee/sor/boraznoe/t90/t9002.htm |title=ÈÑÏÛÒÀÍÈßÒÀÍÊÀ Ò-90|access-date=5 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924102058/http://www.sinopa.ee/sor/boraznoe/t90/t9002.htm |archive-date=24 September 2015|url-status=live}}</ref>

Fire-control system on the T-90 includes the PNK-4S/SR AGAT day and night sighting system mounted at the commanders station which allows for night time detection of a tank sized target at ranges between 700 and 1100 metres depending on the version of the sight. Early models of the T-90 were equipped with the TO1-KO1 BURAN sight but later models (T-90S) were upgraded to use the ESSA [[thermal imaging]] sight, which allows for accurate firing to a range of 5,000–8,000m during day and 3,300m during night, using the CATHERINE-FC [[thermal camera]] produced by [[Thales Optronique]]. The gunner is also provided with the 1G46 day sighting system which includes a laser range finder, [[missile guidance]] channel and allows tank-sized targets to be detected and engaged at {{convert|5|to|8|km}}. The driver uses a TVN-5 day and night sight.{{citation needed|date=February 2023}} In 2010, Russia started licensed production of Thales-developed Catherine FC thermal cameras for T-90M tanks, a Russian daily said.{{citation needed|date=February 2023}} These thermal imagers are also present on T-90M "Bhishma" built in India under licence.{{citation needed|date=February 2023}}

In 2012, the Russian-made combined sample of commander supervisory-sighting system T01-K04DT/Agat-MDT was presented to the public. According to Krasnogorsky Zavod (plant), Agat-MDT has the ability to be installed (for further modernization) in the sight of the newly developed domestic UPF format 640×512 by 15 microns, which is possible in the future to extend the range of target identification at night to 3.5–4.0&nbsp;km without sight modifications.<ref name="survincity.com"/> In 2016, the Krasnogorsk plant finished testing the ''Irbis-K'' night-vision gunner's sighting system for the T-80U and T-90, with first deliveries in 2018.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.armstrade.org/includes/periodics/news/2018/0914/101548713/detail.shtml |title=ЦАМТО / Новости / Россия полностью заместила французские комплектующие для танковых прицелов |access-date=18 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180918194108/http://www.armstrade.org/includes/periodics/news/2018/0914/101548713/detail.shtml |archive-date=18 September 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref> Completion of the Irbis-K, the first Russian-produced mercury-cadmium-telluride (MCT) matrix thermal sight, will bridge a gap with the leading NATO countries in this area. The Irbis-K can identify tank targets at ranges up to 3,240 meters during day and night.<ref name="mil.today"/>

The Russian-made thermal imaging device not only meant that Russian tanks would no longer need to be equipped with foreign parts, but it also meant that complete tank modernization was cheaper.{{citation needed|date=March 2025}} Furthermore, there will be no decrease in demand for the [[T-72]] and the T-90 in the next few years.{{citation needed|date=March 2025}} The new tank gunner's heat-vision sight Irbis-K and the commander's combined sighting and observation system Agat-MDT can be supplied to T-72, T-80 and T-90 upgraded versions (T-72B3M, T-80BVM, T-90M...), replacing the Thales Catherine-FC thermal camera.{{citation needed|date=March 2025}}

===Mobility===
[[File:T-90 engine.jpg|thumb|The T-90's diesel engine]]

The [[Engine|prime mover]] is the {{ill|V-92S|es|B-92}} [[diesel engine]], built in the Chelyabinsk Tractor Plant. Different models of the T-90 tank are powered by various motors in its initial models, like the V-84MS 618&nbsp;kW (840&nbsp;hp) [[Four-stroke engine|four-stroke]] [[V12 engine|V-12]] [[Reciprocating engine|piston engine]], uprated {{convert|1000|hp|abbr=on}} engines and {{convert|1250|hp|abbr=on}} engines made by Uralvagonzavod and are delivered by Chelyabinsk Tractor Plant. The Т-90S with {{convert|1000|hp|abbr=on}} engine can attain a top speed of 60&nbsp;km/h on the road and up to 45&nbsp;km/h on rough terrain. The T-90 tank has a typical drivetrain arrangement, with a rear placed engine and transmission. The {{convert|1000|hp|abbr=on}} engines are V-92 four stroke, 12 cylinder, [[Multifuel|multi-fuel]] diesel while the {{convert|1250|hp|abbr=on}} engine is V-96. The T-90 export version i.e. modified T-90S is fitted with an increased power multi-fuel {{convert|1000|hp|abbr=on}} diesel engine with [[turbocharger]]s. The tank has an [[HVAC|air conditioning system]] for work in hot places.{{citation needed|date=February 2023}}

===Protection===
[[File:T-90-ET 2010.jpg|thumb|A T-90A fitted with second generation [[Kontakt-5]] [[explosive reactive armour|ERA]]]]
[[File:Indian Army T-90.jpg|thumb|A T-90S Bhishma of the Indian Army is fitted with a "two-tiered" protection system: the first tier is the composite armour in the turret, second tier is third generation [[Kontakt-5]] ERA.]]

The T-90 has a "three-tiered" protection system. The first tier is the [[composite armour]] in the turret, consisting of basic armour shell with an insert of alternating layers of aluminum and plastics and a controlled [[Deformation (engineering)|deformation]] section.{{citation needed|date=February 2023}}

The second tier is third generation Kontakt-5 [[explosive reactive armour]] (ERA) bricks which degrade the penetrating power of kinetic-energy APFSDS ammunition. These bricks give the turret a distinctive angled "clam shell" appearance. ERA bricks are also located on the turret roof to protect against attacks from above. The turret's forward armour package, in addition to the ERA and steel plating, includes Russian composite armour sandwiched between upper and lower steel plates. Composite armour offers lower weight and better protection than steel-only armour.{{citation needed|date=February 2023}}

The third tier is a [[Shtora]]-1 (Russian: Штора-1 or "curtain" in English) [[Countermeasure|countermeasures suite]], produced by Elektromashina of Russia. This system includes two electro-optical/IR "[[Dazzler (weapon)|dazzlers]]" (i.e. [[Infrared countermeasure|active infrared]] jammer) on the front of the turret (which gives the distinctive "Red Eyes"), four [[laser warning receiver]]s, two 3D6 [[smoke grenade|'smoke' grenade]] [[Grenade launcher|discharging systems]] and a computerised control system. The Shtora-1 warns the tank's crew when the tank has been '[[Laser designator|painted]]' by a [[laser guidance|weapon-guidance laser]] and allows the crew to slew the turret to face the threat. The infrared jammer, the TShU1-7 EOCMDAS, jams the semi-automatic command to line of sight (SACLOS) guidance system used by some anti-tank guided missiles. The smoke grenades are automatically launched after Shtora detects that it has been painted. The smoke grenades are used to mask a tank from laser rangefinders and designators, and the optics of other weapon systems. Indian T-90S tanks are not equipped with the Shtora-1 countermeasures suite.{{citation needed|date=February 2023}} They will be equipped with the Land Electronic Defence System [[LEDS-150]].

In addition to the passive and active protection systems, the T-90 is also fitted with nuclear, biological and chemical ([[NBC (weapon)|NBC]]) protection equipment, KMT [[Mine plow|mine sweeps]] and an [[Automatic fire suppression|automatic fire suppression system]].{{citation needed|date=February 2023}} The [[EMT-7]] [[Directed-energy weapon|electromagnetic-counter mine system]] can also be installed on the T-90.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.janes.com/articles/Janes-Mines-and-Mine-Clearance/EMT-7-electromagnetic-countermine-system-Russian-Federation.html |title=EMT-7 electromagnetic countermine system (Russian Federation) |work=Jane's |date=20 June 2011 |access-date=11 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100406035925/http://www.janes.com/articles/Janes-Mines-and-Mine-Clearance/EMT-7-electromagnetic-countermine-system-Russian-Federation.html |archive-date=6 April 2010 |url-status=live}}</ref> EMT-7 emits an [[electromagnetic pulse]] to disable magnetic mines and disrupt electronics before the tank reaches them. The [[Nakidka]] signature reduction suite is also available for the T-90. Nakidka is designed to reduce the probabilities of an object to be detected by [[infrared]], [[Thermal radiation|thermal]], radar-thermal, and [[radar]] bands.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.niistali.ru/pr_secure/nobron_en.htm|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20090810051547/http://www.niistali.ru/pr_secure/nobron_en.htm#7|url-status=dead|archivedate=10 August 2009|website=www.niistali.ru |title=Niistali }}</ref>

During a reported test conducted by the Russian military in 1999 the T-90 was exposed to a variety of RPG, ATGM, and APFSDS munitions. When equipped with Kontakt-5 ERA, the T-90 could not be penetrated by any of the APFSDS or ATGM used during the trial and outperformed a T-80U which also took part.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.modernarmy.ru/article/335/osnovnoy-tank-t-90|title=Т-90 – российский основной танк|access-date=4 October 2014|url-status=live|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006084412/http://www.modernarmy.ru/article/335/osnovnoy-tank-t-90}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=20.10.1999 T-80U and T-90 Protection Trials (Vasily Fofanov) |url=http://russianarmor.info/Tanks/TRIALS/19991020.html |archive-date= 29 January 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080129043924/http://russianarmor.info/Tanks/TRIALS/19991020.html}}</ref>{{Unreliable source?|date=December 2009}} During combat operations in Dagestan, there were witness accounts of one T-90 sustaining seven hits from RPGs, and remaining in action.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mdb.cast.ru/mdb/3-2002/ac/raodsmcc/|title=Russian Army Operations and Weaponry During Second Military Campaign in Chechnya|author=Alexander Pashin|publisher=[[Centre for Analysis of Strategies and Technologies]]|archive-date=29 January 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090129141108/http://mdb.cast.ru/mdb/3-2002/ac/raowdsmcc/}}</ref>

T-90M and T-90MS mounts the more advanced "Relikt" ERA.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://otvaga2004.ru/tanki/tanki-concept/tank-t-90ms-analiz/|title=Танк Т-90МС: анализ основных характеристик и возможные пути дальнейшего повышения боевых качеств|work=Военно-патриотический сайт «Отвага»|access-date=15 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129020112/http://otvaga2004.ru/tanki/tanki-concept/tank-t-90ms-analiz/|archive-date=29 November 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> Relikt defends against tandem warheads, while reducing the penetration of APFSDS rounds by over 50 percent.<ref name="Relikt50">{{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20170318194729if_/http://www.military-today.com/tanks/t90ms_tagil.htm T-90MS Tagil]}}</ref> It can be installed instead of Kontakt-1 or Kontakt-5.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.niistali.ru/security/armor/relict|title=Комплекс ДЗ типа "Реликт" для танков|author=Oleg Kropotkin|access-date=15 November 2014|url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129010848/http://www.niistali.ru/security/armor/relict|archive-date=29 November 2014}}</ref>

====Estimated protection level comparison====
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align: center"
! Model
! ERA
! vs [[Armour-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot|APFSDS]]{{citation needed|date=February 2016}}
! vs [[High-explosive anti-tank|HEAT]]{{citation needed|date=February 2016}}
|-
| [[T-72]]M || None || 335–380 || 450–490
|-
| T-72M1 || None || 380–400 || 490
|-
| T-72A || Kontakt-1 || 360–400 || 490–500
|-
| T-72B/T-72S (produced after 1985) || Kontakt-1 || 400–500 || 500–550
|-
| T-72B (produced after<ref>{{cite web|url=http://armor.kiev.ua/Tanks/Modern/T72/T72_90.php|title=Основной танк Т-72/Т-90|work=armor.kiev.ua|access-date=10 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150315015254/http://armor.kiev.ua/Tanks/Modern/T72/T72_90.php|archive-date=15 March 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> 1988)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://btvt.narod.ru/5/rogatka/rogatka.htm|title=Т-72Б "Рогатка"|work=narod.ru|access-date=10 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129032117/http://btvt.narod.ru/5/rogatka/rogatka.htm|archive-date=29 November 2014|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://fofanov.armor.kiev.ua/Tanks/index_r.html|title=Vasiliy Fofanov's Modern Russian Armour Page|first=(C) 1998, 1999, Sauron's Creations – Vasiliy|last=Fofanov|work=armor.kiev.ua|access-date=10 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160903135816/http://fofanov.armor.kiev.ua/Tanks/index_r.html|archive-date=3 September 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://btvt.narod.ru/4/t-72.htm|title=ОСНОВНОЙ БОЕВОЙ ТАНК T-72|work=narod.ru|access-date=10 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150630211509/http://btvt.narod.ru/4/t-72.htm|archive-date=30 June 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> || Kontakt-5 || 690–800 || 940–1180
|-
|T-90<ref name="ria.ru">{{Cite web |url=https://ria.ru/infografika/20100912/274278915.html |title=Характеристики боевого танка Т-90 |date=12 September 2010 |access-date=17 April 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170418081803/https://ria.ru/infografika/20100912/274278915.html |archive-date=18 April 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> || Kontakt-5 || 800–830<ref name="ria.ru"/> || 1150–1350<ref name="ria.ru"/>
|-
| T-90A/T-90S  || Kontakt-5 || ≈870–910 || ≈1250–1450
|-
| T-90M/T-90MS || Relikt || 1100–1200 || ≈1900
|-
|}

The T-90A / T-90S turret uses a stronger steel alloy, giving an approximately 10–15% increase in the protection level given from the steel elements of the armor array; as the array from many aspects is not wholly steel, the overall increase in protection is less than this margin over these areas.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.uvz.ru/products/t90-s |title=ТАНК Т-90С: ОСНОВНОЙ БОЕВОЙ ТАНК |access-date=10 December 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180504074545/http://www.uvz.ru/products/t90-s |archive-date=4 May 2018 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://btvt.narod.ru/4/armor.htm |title=Бронирование современных отечественных танков |access-date=26 May 2017 |archive-date=25 May 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170525213624/http://btvt.narod.ru/4/armor.htm |url-status=live}}</ref> Protection values will decrease somewhat against Tandem HEAT or penetrators with precursor tips. These measures are not as effective against heavier, newer generations of E.R.A. such as Relikt.

The actual level of protection provided by the T-90 was questioned after some of these models were destroyed or captured during the [[Russo-Ukrainian War]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Documenting Russian Equipment Losses During The Russian Invasion Of Ukraine |url=https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2022/02/attack-on-europe-documenting-equipment.html#:~:text=33-,T%2D90A,-%3A%C2%A0(1%2C%20destroyed |access-date=15 May 2023 |website=Oryx |archive-date=19 May 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230519175858/https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2022/02/attack-on-europe-documenting-equipment.html#:~:text=33-,T%2D90A,-%3A%C2%A0(1%2C%20destroyed |url-status=live }}</ref>

====Turret issues====
The T-90 has an unknown issue that causes it to become disabled via the turret spinning uncontrollably. Currently there is no concrete understanding of what precisely causes this issue, but a theory by a former tank commander of the British Army, Hamish de Bretton-Gordon, states: "It’ll likely be a combination between inexperienced crews and poor electronics."<ref name="a801">{{cite web |last=Barnes |first=Joe |date=27 May 2024 |title=Russia's most modern battle tank hit by 'disco head' glitch |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2024/05/27/russias-most-modern-battle-tank-hit-by-disco-head-glitch/ |access-date=1 June 2024 |website=The Telegraph}}</ref>

==Variants==
[[File:T-90A - TankBiathlon2013-12.jpg|thumb|T-90A Main Battle Tank competing in the 2013 [[Tank Biathlon]]]]
[[File:Moscow 2012 Victory Day Parade Rehearsal, T-90 Tank 2, Russia.jpg|thumb|T-90A on the streets of Moscow]]
[[File:Т-90М.jpg|thumb|T-90M tank in parade]]
[[File:T-90SM - RAE2013-04.jpg|thumb| T-90MS Main Battle Tank at the [[Russian Expo Arms|2013 Russian Arms Expo]]]]
* '''T-90 (Object 188)''' – The first production version. Object 188 (1989), production 1992.<ref name="ria.ru"/> At one point during development it was designated as the Upgraded T-72B.<ref name=":2" /> 46 tons.{{sfn|Foss|2005|pages=85−88}}
** '''{{visanc |T-90K}}''' – Commander's version of the T-90, with additional communication (R-163-50K station) and navigation equipment (TNA-4-3).{{sfn|Foss|2005|page=88}}<ref name="autogenerated3">{{cite web |url=http://www.militarium.net/wojska_ladowe/t90.php |title=T-90 |publisher=militarium.net |language=pl |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120429102516/http://www.militarium.net/wojska_ladowe/t90.php |archive-date=29 April 2012 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
** '''{{visanc |T-90A}}''' – Russian army version with welded turret, V-92S2 engine and ESSA thermal viewer. Sometimes called T-90 Vladimir, in honor of its chief designer Vladimir Potkin.<ref name="autogenerated2">{{cite web |url=http://www.fprado.com/armorsite/T-90S.htm |title=Main Battle Tank – T-90/T90S/T90C |publisher=armorsite |access-date=19 October 2008 |url-status=live |archive-date=28 October 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081028214731/http://www.fprado.com/armorsite/T-90S.htm}}</ref>
** '''{{visanc |T-90AK}}''' – Command version of the T-90A.<ref>{{harvnb|Zaloga|2018|page=24}}</ref>
** '''T-90AM ("Proryv-2")''' – Upgrade of T-90A which was later developed into the T-90MS. Featured a new turret developed in the "Proryv-2" program. Revealed in 2011. 48 tons. Not in service.{{sfn|Zaloga|2018|p=25}}
* '''T-90M ("Proryv-3")''' – Heavily upgraded version of the T-90, first appearance in public in 2017.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bastion-karpenko.narod.ru/T-90AM_tagil-2011.html|title=ОСНОВНОЙ ТАНК Т-90АМ (Т-90МС). MAIN BATTLE TANK T-90АМ (T-90MS)|access-date=15 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141020053727/http://bastion-karpenko.narod.ru/T-90AM_tagil-2011.html|archive-date=20 October 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> The main feature is the modernization of turret design ("all welded" instead of cast) with the new advanced fire control system Kalina (with integrated combat information and control systems), new PNM-T gunner's sight and four video cameras that provide a 360° view of the environment for the commander, new upgraded gun 2A46M-5 with coaxial machine gun of 7.62&nbsp;mm, weapon station "UDP T05BV-1" with the remotely controlled machine gun of 12.7&nbsp;mm "Kord". There is improved armor on the ammunition carousel. Each side of the hull is fitted with additional armor plates at the front and [[slat armor]] at the rear. The new version also includes brand new Relikt ERA on turret and hull, "soft kill" APS Shtora-1 without the (now obsolete) jammers, and "hard kill" APS Arena-M.<ref name="Eastwood">{{cite web |url=https://www.19fortyfive.com/2022/03/why-russias-feared-t-90-tank-keeps-getting-killed-in-ukraine/ |title=Why Russia's Feared T-90 Tank Keeps Getting Killed In Ukraine |last=Brent M. |first=Eastwood |date=31 March 2022 |website=1945 |access-date=6 April 2023 |archive-date=23 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220423082740/https://www.19fortyfive.com/2022/03/why-russias-feared-t-90-tank-keeps-getting-killed-in-ukraine/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://tank-t-90.ru/index/t90am/0-78 |author=Вторник |date=9 April 2012 |title=T-90МС |access-date=12 April 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-date=4 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120904165631/http://tank-t-90.ru/index/t90am/0-78}}</ref> ERA on the front of the turret is made of one "cast" and is easily replaceable in the field by a crew.  Other improvements include a new 1130{{nbsp}}hp V-92S2F<ref>{{cite web|url=https://eurasiantimes.com/t-90-tank-gets-faster-deadlier-more-survivable-how-does-india/|title=With New Upgrades, Have The T-90 Tanks Become The World's Deadliest Main Battle Tanks?|date=7 March 2021|publisher=eurasiantimes.com|access-date=4 June 2021|archive-date=4 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210604082428/https://eurasiantimes.com/t-90-tank-gets-faster-deadlier-more-survivable-how-does-india/|url-status=live}}</ref> engine coupled with automatic transmission, an enhanced [[environmental control system]] and GLONASS satellite navigation systems. It also features an upgraded autoloader AZ-185M2 which allows for longer (and thus more effective) APFSDS ammunition Svinets-1 and Svinets-2. Much of the ammunition stored outside the autoloader has been moved from around the hull to the rear of the turret with added blowout panels in the event the ammunition suffers a catastrophic explosion, protecting the crew and other sensitive equipment.{{sfn|Zaloga|2018|p=26}}
* '''{{visanc |T-90S}}''' – Export version of the T-90,{{sfn|Foss|2005|page=88}} later adopted by the Russian Armed Forces as the T-90A.{{citation needed|date=October 2023}} These tanks were made by Uralvagonzavod and were updated with 1,000{{nbsp}}hp (750{{nbsp}}kW) engines made by Chelyabinsk Tractor Plant.{{sfn|Foss|2005|page=88}} These tanks carry an export version of the Shtora-1 passive/active protection system which lacks the infra-red dazzlers carried on the turret, however this area was covered with more Kontakt-5.{{citation needed|date=October 2023}} These were initially supplied with cast turrets of the early T-90, and when stocks were depleted, new, welded turrets were fabricated.{{citation needed|date=October 2023}}
** '''{{visanc |T-90SK}}''' – Commander's version of the T-90S, with additional communication and navigation equipment. It differs in radio and navigation equipment and Ainet remote-detonation system for HEF rounds.{{sfn|Foss|2005|pages=85−88}}<ref name="autogenerated3"/><ref name="autogenerated2"/>
* '''{{visanc |T-90MS|text=T-90MS / T-90SM}}''' – Export variant of T-90AM ("Proryv-2"),{{citation needed|date=February 2023}} first time showed in Abu Dhabi IDEX-2013.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Арабы убедились в превосходстве российского танка Т-90СМ над другими|url=https://rg.ru/2015/02/27/vistavka.html|access-date=28 March 2021|website=Российская газета|date=27 February 2015|archive-date=8 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191208074625/https://rg.ru/2015/02/27/vistavka.html|url-status=live}}</ref> It is equipped with a 1,130&nbsp;hp engine, a [[Sosna-U]] gunner sight,<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://army-news.ru/2011/09/sistema-upravleniya-ognyom-tanka-t-90sm-tagil/ |title=Система управления огнём танка Т-90МС "ТАГИЛ" &#124; Армейский вестник |access-date=4 June 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170609223835/http://army-news.ru/2011/09/sistema-upravleniya-ognyom-tanka-t-90sm-tagil/ |archive-date=9 June 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> a UDP T05BV-1 RWS with a 7.62{{nbsp}}mm machine gun, [[GLONASS]], inertial navigation systems, new Relikt explosive reactive armour that covers more of the tank,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Научные Разработки |url=http://www.niistali.ru/products/nauka/dynamic+protection/relikt/ |access-date=4 June 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170515010144/http://www.niistali.ru/products/nauka/dynamic+protection/relikt/ |archive-date=15 May 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> and a steering wheel.{{citation needed|date=March 2022}} A new removable turret bustle is included, which provides storage for eight additional rounds. The T-90MS is ready for serial production.<ref>{{cite web|title=Экспортная версия танка Т-90МС готова к серийному производству|url=http://ria.ru/defense_safety/20150909/1239730138.html|work=РИА Новости|date=9 September 2015 |access-date=19 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150911234459/http://ria.ru/defense_safety/20150909/1239730138.html|archive-date=11 September 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> Four video cameras provide a 360° view of the environment, while the tank is more connected to command.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.uvz.ru/products/t90-ms |title=Т-90МС: ОСНОВНОЙ БОЕВОЙ ТАНК НОВОГО ПОКОЛЕНИЯ |access-date=10 December 2018 |url-status=dead |archive-date=12 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612140620/http://www.uvz.ru/products/t90-ms}}</ref> The T-90SM has an upgraded thermal imager that can detect tanks over 3,300 meters away. The same autoloader as the T-90M "Proryv-3" is used.{{sfn|Zaloga|2018|p=26}}

'''Variants'''
* '''BREM-1M''':  Armoured recovery vehicle<ref name="jpost.com"/>
* '''IMR-2MA''': Combat engineer vehicle. Referred to as the IMR-3M by some sources.{{sfn|Foss|2005|page=88}}
* '''MTU-90''': Bridge layer tank with MLC50 bridge.{{sfn|Foss|2005|page=88}}
* '''UBIM (Universal Armored Engineering Vehicle)''': It was unveiled at the Army-2018 international arms show.<ref>{{Cite web |title=UBIM - Armored engineer vehicle |url=http://www.military-today.com/engineering/ubim.htm |access-date=30 March 2022 |archive-date=30 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220330051012if_/http://www.military-today.com/engineering/ubim.htm |url-status=usurped}}</ref>

==Operators==
<!-- READ FIRST: This section is for cited entries only. Please do not add entries into this list without a citation from a reliable source. All entries without a citation will be removed. Thank you. -->
[[File:Main Battle Tank of the Indian Army, T-90 Bhishma passes through the Rajpath, at the 72nd Republic Day Celebrations, in New Delhi on January 26, 2021.jpg|thumb|T-90S "Bhishma" of the [[Indian Army]]]]
[[File:T-90S armenia.jpg|thumb|Armenian T-90 in [[Yerevan]]]]
[[File:Independence Day Parade - Flickr - Kerri-Jo (66).jpg|thumb|T-90SA and T-72UMG. Celebrating the 20th year of independence in [[Turkmenistan]].]]
[[File:The 80th Air Assault Brigade captured a T-90M Proryv tank in the Kursk region.jpg|thumb|T-90M captured by the Ukrainian [[80th Air Assault Brigade (Ukraine)|80th Air Assault Brigade]] during the [[2024 Kursk offensive]]]]

===Current===
* {{ALG}}: 600+ T-90SA as of 2024{{sfn|IISS|2024|page=342}}
* {{ARM}}: 1 T-90A as of 2024{{sfn|IISS|2024|page=178}}
* {{AZE}}: 93 T-90S as of 2024{{sfn|IISS|2024|page=180}}
* {{IND}}: Around 1,300 T-90S tanks in service as of 2025.<ref name=":4" />
* {{IRQ}}: 73 T-90S as of 2024{{sfn|IISS|2024|page=357}}
* {{RUS}}: 100 T-90A and 120+ T-90M in service, plus an unknown number of T-90 and T-90A tanks in storage as of 2024{{sfn|IISS|2024|page=193}}<ref>{{cite web | last=Nikolov | first=Boyko | title=UVZ sent one trainload of T-90M Proryv tanks to the Russian Army | website=Bulgarian Military Industry Review | date=6 May 2024 | url=https://bulgarianmilitary.com/2024/05/06/uvz-sent-one-trainload-of-t-90m-proryv-tanks-to-the-russian-army/ | access-date=7 May 2024}}</ref>
* {{SYR}}: Unknown number of T-90 and T-90A tanks in service as of 2024{{sfn|IISS|2024|page=386}}
* {{TKM}}: 4 T-90S as of 2024{{sfn|IISS|2024|page=208}}
* {{UGA}}: 44 T-90S as of 2024{{sfn|IISS|2024|page=526}}
* {{UKR}}: Operates an unknown number of T-90A and T-90M tanks captured from Russian forces during the [[Russian invasion of Ukraine]]{{sfn|IISS|2024|pages=211,214}}<ref>{{Cite web |last=Epstein |first=Jake |title=Retreating Russian troops are arming Ukraine with modern T-90 tanks as Putin's army digs 60-year-old armor out of storage, Ukraine's military says |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/ukraine-armed-with-modern-t-90-tanks-captured-from-russians-2022-10 |access-date=14 October 2022 |website=Business Insider |language=en-US |archive-date=14 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221014001345/https://www.businessinsider.com/ukraine-armed-with-modern-t-90-tanks-captured-from-russians-2022-10 |url-status=live }}</ref>
* {{VIE}}: 64 T-90S as of 2024{{sfn|IISS|2024|page=324}}

=== Former ===
*{{flag|Artsakh}}: 1 T-90S prior to the [[2023 Azerbaijani offensive in Nagorno-Karabakh]]{{sfn|IISS|2023|page=174}}
*[[Wagner Group]]: Used during the Russian invasion Ukraine,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Axe |first1=David | url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidaxe/2022/12/28/why-are-mercenaries-driving-russias-best-t-90-tank/?sh=71d88e271ea6 | title=Why Are Mercenaries Driving Russia's Best T-90 Tanks? | website=[[Forbes]] | date=28 December 2022| access-date=5 January 2023 | archive-date=5 January 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230105045229/https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidaxe/2022/12/28/why-are-mercenaries-driving-russias-best-t-90-tank/?sh=71d88e271ea6 | url-status=live }}</ref> they were later handed over to the Russian government in the aftermath of the [[Wagner Group rebellion]]<ref>{{cite news |last1=Seddon |first1=Max |title=Wagner fighters start handing over their weapons |url=https://www.ft.com/content/800a20aa-f205-4d49-bb25-c709653efa87 |access-date=13 April 2024 |work=Financial Times |date=12 July 2023}}</ref>
* {{flagicon image|InfoboxHTS.svg}} [[Tahrir al-Sham]]: Prior to the [[Northwestern Syria offensive (2024)|Northwestern Syria offensive]] in November 2024, at least two were captured from the [[Syrian Army]], one was recaptured by Syrian government forces and the other was disabled.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Janovský |first1=Jakub |title=Seven Years of War — Documenting Syrian Rebel Use of Anti-Tank Guided Missiles |url=https://www.bellingcat.com/news/mena/2018/05/04/seven-years-war-documenting-syrian-rebel-use-anti-tank-guided-missiles/ |website=Bellingcat |access-date=13 April 2024 |date=4 May 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Roblin |first1=Sebastien |title=What Happened When Russia Sent Its T-90 Tank To Syria? |url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/reboot/what-happened-when-russia-sent-its-t-90-tank-syria-182146 |access-date=13 April 2024 |work=The National Interest |date=7 April 2021 |language=en}}</ref> During the Northwestern Syria offensive, at least one T-90A tank was captured.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Suciu |first1=Peter |title=Syrian Rebels Didn't Just Capture Aleppo − They Took Abandoned Military Hardware |url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/syrian-rebels-didn%E2%80%99t-just-capture-aleppo%E2%80%94they-took-abandoned-military-hardware-213990 |website=The National Interest |access-date=6 December 2024 |date=5 December 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Ershad |first1=Alijani |title=Fighter Jets, tanks and more: Syrian army's retreat from Aleppo is a windfall for rebels |url=https://observers.france24.com/en/middle-east/20241203-fighter-jets-tanks-and-more-syrian-army-s-retreat-from-aleppo-is-a-windfall-for-rebels |access-date=6 December 2024 |work=The France 24 Observers |publisher=[[France 24]] |date=3 December 2024}}</ref>

===Future operators===
* {{EGY}}: In June 2020, Egypt signed a deal with Russia to acquire 500 T-90MS tanks, under a deal that would include local assembly and manufacture.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.israeldefense.co.il/en/node/43814|title=Egypt Reportedly Signs Contract for 500 Russian T-90MS Tanks|date=29 June 2020|work=Israel Defense|access-date=17 February 2022|archive-date=11 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220211010342/https://www.israeldefense.co.il/en/node/43814|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Russia's T-90 tanks to be assembled under license in Egypt|url=http://tass.com/defense/954764|website=TASS|access-date=26 July 2017|archive-url=https://archive.today/20170726135452/http://tass.com/defense/954764|archive-date=26 July 2017|location=Moscow|date=6 July 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref>
* {{KUW}}: Looking to acquire 146 T-90MS tanks as replacement for [[M-84]]. Contract could be signed after being approved by the National Assembly.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defaiya.com/news/Regional%20News/MENA/2017/02/28/russia-to-supply-t-90ms-battle-tank-to-mideast-country |title=Russia to Supply T-90MS Battle Tank to Mideast Country |publisher=Al Defaiya |date=28 February 2017 |access-date=21 July 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170808001746/http://www.defaiya.com/news/Regional%20News/MENA/2017/02/28/russia-to-supply-t-90ms-battle-tank-to-mideast-country |archive-date=8 August 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> Russian Presidential aide confirmed that Kuwaiti contract could be signed by the end of 2017,{{update after|2022|9|1}}<!-- so was it ever signed?  source citation? --><ref>{{cite web|url=http://tass.com/defense/965107|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171024205531/http://tass.com/defense/965107|url-status=dead|archive-date=24 October 2017|title=Contract with Kuwait to supply T-90MS tanks can be signed before yearend|publisher=Tass|date=12 September 2017}}</ref> but the acquisition was postponed in 2019.<ref>{{cite news|title= Kuwaiti army officer says Russian tanks purchase postponed|work=[[Xinhua News Agency]] |url=http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2019-03/05/c_137871438.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190305213900/http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2019-03/05/c_137871438.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=5 March 2019|date=5 March 2019}}</ref>

===Failed bids===
* {{flag|Malaysia}}: The tank was in the tender for Malaysia, but they selected the Polish tank [[PT-91M]] in 2002.
* {{PAK}}: Planned to acquire 600 battle tanks and considered the T-90 but instead opted for the Chinese [[VT-4]].<ref name="Week">{{cite news |last1=Week |first1=The |title=Pakistan plans to buy 600 battle tanks; eyes Russian T-90 |url=https://www.theweek.in/news/world/2018/12/31/pakistan-600-tank-t-90.html |access-date=2 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190102112118/https://www.theweek.in/news/world/2018/12/31/pakistan-600-tank-t-90.html |archive-date=2 January 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="ET">{{cite news |last1= |first1= |title=Pakistan procuring 600 tanks to strengthen capability along border with India: Intelligence Sources |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/pakistan-procuring-600-tanks-to-strengthen-capability-along-border-with-india-intelligence-sources/articleshow/67310370.cms |work=Economic Times |access-date=2 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190102144525/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/pakistan-procuring-600-tanks-to-strengthen-capability-along-border-with-india-intelligence-sources/articleshow/67310370.cms |archive-date=2 January 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/pakistan-confirms-plans-to-induct-chinese-made-vt4-main-battle-tank|title=Pakistan confirms plans to induct Chinese-made VT4 main battle tank|website=Janes.com|date=23 September 2020|access-date=27 February 2022|archive-date=27 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220227100715/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/pakistan-confirms-plans-to-induct-chinese-made-vt4-main-battle-tank|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Evaluation===
* {{USA}}: 1 T-90A.<ref name=Altman>{{cite news |last1=Altman |first1=Howard |last2=Trevithick |first2=Joseph |date=14 April 2023 |title=Destination Of Russian T-90 Tank Left At Truck Stop Comes Into Focus |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/destination-of-russian-t-90-tank-left-at-truck-stop-comes-into-focus |work=The Drive |access-date=16 April 2023 |archive-date=15 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230415222149/https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/destination-of-russian-t-90-tank-left-at-truck-stop-comes-into-focus |url-status=live }}</ref> The T-90A was first spotted in the middle of April 2023, at a [[Louisiana]] truck stop.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Altman |first1=Howard |title=Russian T-90 Tank From Ukraine Mysteriously Appears At U.S. Truck Stop |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/russian-t-90-tank-from-ukraine-mysteriously-appears-at-u-s-truck-stop |website=The Warzone |date=13 April 2023 |publisher=The Drive |access-date=19 April 2023 |archive-date=18 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230418034240/https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/russian-t-90-tank-from-ukraine-mysteriously-appears-at-u-s-truck-stop |url-status=live }}</ref> The tank itself was likely captured by [[Armed Forces of Ukraine|Ukrainian forces]] during the [[2022 Kharkiv counteroffensive|Kharkiv counteroffensive]] in 2022 and was in Ukrainian service before being shipped to the United States.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Ankel |first1=Sophia |title=Pentagon explains the mysterious Russian tank at a truck stop in Louisiana — saying it was disarmed and is going to an Army training center |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/russian-tank-mysteriously-appears-off-louisiana-highway-report-2023-4 |website=Insider |publisher=Insider Inc. |access-date=19 April 2023 |archive-date=19 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230419162202/https://www.businessinsider.com/russian-tank-mysteriously-appears-off-louisiana-highway-report-2023-4 |url-status=live }}</ref> A [[The Pentagon|Pentagon]] spokesperson stated that its destination is [[Aberdeen Proving Ground]] for evaluation purposes.<ref name="Altman" />

==See also==
* [[List of main battle tanks by generation]]

==Notes==
{{notelist}}

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

==Sources==
* Mallika, Joseph (2004) "[https://web.archive.org/web/20071213104901/http://ipcs.org/printIssueBrief.jsp?status=publications&status1=issue&mod=d&check=22&try=true Issue Brief No. 19: T-90S 'Bhishma']". Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies. URL accessed 24 July 2006.
* {{citation |last1=Sewell |first1=Stephen "Cookie" |year=1998 |title=Why Three Tanks |url=https://www.benning.army.mil/armor/EArmor/content/issues/1998/JUL_AUG/ArmorJulyAugust1998web.pdf |access-date=4 March 2022 |work=Armor |volume=CVII |issue=July–August 1998 |publisher=U.S. Army Armor Center |pages=21–29, 45 |issn=0004-2420 |id=PB-17-98-4}}
* {{cite book |last1=Zaloga |first1=Steven J. |last2=Markov |first2=David |title=Russia's T-80U Main Battle Tank |date=2000 |publisher=Concord |location=Hong Kong |isbn=962-361-656-2}}
* {{cite book |last1=Zaloga |first1=Steven J. |last2=Sarson |first2=Peter |title=T-72 Main Battle Tank 1974–93 |date=1993 |publisher=Osprey Publishing |location=London |isbn=978-1855323384}}
* {{cite book |last1=Zaloga |first1=Steven J. |title=T-90 Standard Tank |date=2018 |publisher=Osprey Publishing Ltd |isbn=978-1-4728-1822-5}}
*{{cite book |editor1-last=Foss |editor1-first=Christopher F. |editor1-link=Christopher F. Foss |title=Jane's Armour & Artillery, 2005-06 |date=15 August 2005 |publisher=Janes Information Group |isbn=978-0-7106-2686-8 |edition=26th |language=English}}
*{{cite book |last1=International Institute for Strategic Studies |title=The Military Balance 2023 |date=15 February 2023 |publisher=Routledge |isbn=978-1032508955 |edition=1st |author1-link=International Institute for Strategic Studies |ref={{SfnRef|IISS|2023}}}}
*{{cite book |last1=International Institute for Strategic Studies |title=The Military Balance 2024 |date=13 February 2024 |publisher=Taylor & Francis |isbn=978-1-040-05115-3 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=zIb0EAAAQBAJ|language=en |ref={{SfnRef|IISS|2024}} |author1-link=International Institute for Strategic Studies }}

==External links==
{{commons}}
* [http://uralvagonzavod.com/products/special_products/1/ T-90S Third-Generation Main battle tank, uralvagonzavod] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150729133552/http://uralvagonzavod.com/products/special_products/1/ |date=29 July 2015}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20071231132856/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/LAND-FORCES/Army/Images-MBT6.html T-90S Main Battle Tank]—Bharat Rakshak
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20080214223841/http://www.uvz.ru/eng/ Uralvagonzavod], manufacturer's English-language home page ([https://web.archive.org/web/20051124100448/http://www.uvz.ru/rus/index_1024.htm Russian], [https://web.archive.org/web/20071013161539/http://www.uvz.ru/eng/edata/euvz/eprodukt/mprod/t_90.htm T-90 English page])
* [http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/row/t-90.htm The T-90 tank by the Federation of American Scientists]
* [http://www.fprado.com/armorsite/T-90S.htm T-90S Main Battle Tank] at the Armor Site
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20061108012009/http://www.rbs.ru/exhibition/uralexpoarms/2000/video/t90.mpg Main battle tank T-90: Firing sample]
* [https://tanksdb.ru/t-90/ T-90 Main Battle Tank]

{{Post–Cold War tanks|style=wide}}
{{Post WWII Soviet AFVS|T}}

[[Category:Main battle tanks of Russia]]
[[Category:Tanks with autoloaders]]
[[Category:Post–Cold War main battle tanks]]
[[Category:Uralvagonzavod products]]
[[Category:Military vehicles introduced in the 1990s]]