Why Russia Favors Modernization Over Sales: A Closer Look at Tank Upgrades

When it comes to Russia's tank arsenal, one often wonders why the Soviet Union's legacy tanks like the T-72 continue to dominate. This article will delve into the complexities of modernization and sales in the Russian defense industry, particularly focusing on the T-90 and T-14 tanks.

The Unfinished T-14

The T-14, often touted as Russia's most advanced main battle tank, remains in an early test phase. While it teases with impressive technological advancements, it is far from being a commercially viable product. The developmental journey of this tank demonstrates that even cutting-edge technology requires extensive testing and refinement before it can be successfully deployed.

Why Overlook the T-90?

When considering the T-90, an observer might wonder why Russia doesn't focus more on selling this model. However, the T-90 is far from a monolithic product. It has several variants, including the T-90 and T-90M. The latest variant, T-90M, is not only more robust but also offers enhanced performance. While it might seem logical to prioritize sales, the complexity of the market and the advanced capabilities of the T-90M make it a compelling option for potential buyers.

The Importance of the T-72B Family

Russia's continued reliance on the T-72B family is largely due to its operational effectiveness. Even when newer models are available, it is not always practical to sell older tanks because newer variants like the T-90M offer significant advantages. Selling T-72B tanks would only depreciate these advantages, making them less attractive to potential buyers who can opt for more advanced models.

The Myths of Rapid Development

One key lesson from the historical development of various systems, from the Sa-8 to the Su-27, highlights the complexity of rapid development. Just as a single mother cannot deliver a baby in less than nine months, complex military systems require significant time for development and testing. Historical examples like the Sa-8, which was adopted in 1972 but took until 1971 to complete state trials, demonstrate the intricate timeline involved in bringing a new system to operational readiness.

Understanding Russian Production Dynamics

Another important point is the evolution of Russian variants. Often, what is considered a definitive first major variant, such as the T-90M, is actually the culmination of a series of advancements and improvements. Much like the Osa-AK and Osa-AKM, which were perfected over time, the T-90M represents a mature and reliable product. The same can be said for the Su-27 and MiG-29, where early models underwent significant upgrades before becoming viable platforms.

Current Market Dynamics

The current market for surplus tanks is challenging. For instance, Syria has been acquiring a mix of surplus tanks, including T-62, T-72, Ural, T-72M, and T-72A units. However, not all surplus tanks are equally valuable. T-62s, for example, fetch only a fraction of their original value, often a few hundred thousand dollars. T-72s, while still valuable, find limited buyers for the A and B models. The current market is not favorable for large-scale sales, making modernization a more viable strategy.

Conclusion

The decision to prioritize modernization over sales is a strategic choice driven by operational needs and market realities. The T-90 and T-14 represent significant advancements in tank technology, and their continued development ensures that Russia maintains a competitive edge in the evolving landscape of modern warfare.