Russia is using a T-72B3M tank designed for the Tank Biathlon competition in the war with Ukraine

The Russian military is using an upgraded T-72B3M tank in its war with Ukraine.

Twitter observers drew attention to social media photos featuring unusual equipment.

They recognized the 2014 model of the T-72B3M tank in the photo. It was developed for Russian military participation in tank biathlon competitions.

According to social media users, the tank is part of the 5th Separate Tank Brigade of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, which is stationed in Buryatia.

The T-72B3M tank designed for the Tank Biathlon competition was produced in artificial quantities mainly for participation in exhibitions and military competitions, including international ones. However, those events were held on the territory of Russia and with the participation of representatives of only “friendly” countries.

The main change of this rare Russian combat vehicle compared to the combat T-73B3 is the 1160 hp engine in combination with an automatic transmission.

The tank also received a new commander’s panoramic sight with a laser rangefinder and a TV, which was mounted in the rear upper part of the tower: between the commander’s and gunner’s hatches.

The T-72B3M, which was spotted as part of the Russian occupation forces in Ukraine, has a characteristic inscription of three letters “UVZ”. This is the abbreviation of “Uralvagonzavod” – the main Russian tank manufacturer.

As previously reported, at the beginning of August, in the Kharkiv region, a T-90 tank of the Russian invaders was neutralized.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kA7pZqyClgs

The video reveals the hit on the combat vehicle of the Russian invaders, presumably with an anti-tank weapon (ATRK, RPG) or other weapons.

After the strike, smoke was observed inside the combat compartment of the tank, which indicated the fire. A cloud of smoke gathered above the damaged equipment.

After a short period of time, the ammunition detonation occurred. This led to a powerful explosion, which completely destroyed the combat vehicle.