Modernization of T-72 tanks is ongoing in Bulgaria

Bulgaria is successfully modernizing T-72 tanks.

Defense Minister of the country Dimitar Stoyanov said this, Defense24.pl writes.

The tanks are being repaired and upgraded to extend their service life until 2030.

“We witnessed excellent results achieved due to upgraded equipment and good crew training,” said Defense Minister Dimityr Stoyanov after showcasing the combat capabilities of the upgraded T-72 tank.

At the Novo Selo Training Area, the military conducted firing with the main armament of tanks. They fired from a place and on the move at different distances and with different types of ammunition, and also fired with a machine gun at stationary and moving targets.

The ability of the thermal imager to detect targets at night and in conditions of insufficient visibility was also showcased.

Minister Stoyanov explained that the modernization of military equipment is a long-term process that requires an improvement of weapons systems so that they meet the modern requirements of conducting combat operations.

Among other things, the tank upgrade includes the installation of a new TIFCS fire control system from Elbit Systems, replacing the original 1K13 night sight with a TIFCS-GS day and night sight, which also includes a laser rangefinder with a range of up to 9 km.

A total of 44 T-72M1 will be upgraded, 40 of them for the Ground Forces and 4 for the Vasil Levski National Military University.

As previously reported, the Bulgarian government approved the updated version of the T-72 tank modernization project at a meeting on February 16, 2022.

The upgrade of combat vehicles aims to overcome the technological backwardness of tank formations in terms of fire control systems, secure communication and situational awareness.