The T-90M2 “Ryvok-1” is a new version of the T-90, Russia’s most extensively used main battle tank, that is set to enter production in 2026. This model is the next stage in the evolutionary refinement of the T-90M “Proryv” tank, as indicated by documentation from the Uralvagonzavod corporation (UVZ) that was disclosed by Russian sources and confirmed by analytical data from the project Frontelligence Insight. The model emphasizes the integration of electronic and optical systems, the modernization of the fire control system, and the armor composition, all of which are based on the most recent combat experience acquired in Ukraine.
Production Planning and Industrial Context
The T-90M2 “Ryvok-1” is designated as the focal point of Russia’s tank production program from 2026 to 2029, as indicated by the documentation dated spring–summer 2025. In 2026, Uralvagonzavod, the main tank manufacturer in Russia, will commence limited serial production of the new “Object 188M2” (the factory designation for T-90M2) with an initial output of approximately ten units per year. The company is located in Nizhny Tagil. The production of T-90M tanks will experience a substantial increase in the coming years, with the total output, which includes the modernization and overhaul of extant platforms, expected to reach approximately 290 tanks in 2027 and 428 tanks in 2028. The total combined volume of production, modernization, and overhaul for T-90M and T-90M2 variants is anticipated to exceed 1,118 vehicles between 2027 and 2029, representing a nearly 80% increase from 2024 levels.
The production curve indicates that the 2027–2029 period will be a consolidation phase, including the integration of the “Ryvok-1” configuration and the refurbishment of older T-90A and T-90M tanks. This is indicated by Russian-language reports from defense industry monitoring portals and commentary from experts close to the Uralvagonzavod complex. Low-scale assembly will take place in the initial years. The plant is anticipated to transition primarily to modernization and maintenance operations following the conclusion of the production schedule in 2029, rather than the construction of new vessels.
The transition from T-90M “Proryv” to “Ryvok-1”
The T-90M2 “Ryvok-1” is identified as Объект 188M2 (Object 188M2) in Russian industry correspondence, indicating that it evolved from the original Объект 188 (Object 188) T-90, which was developed in the 1990s. A second-level modernization that develops upon the “Proryv-3” configuration (T-90M) is indicated by the new letter “М2” suffix. “Ryvok-1” is described in Russian defense blogs such as Военно-промышленный курьер and Боевая техника России as incorporating structural upgrades derived from the Armata family. The upgrades encompass new subsystems for thermal imaging, sensor fusion, and protection modules that align with the current Russian networked command architecture.
According to reports, the modernization involves an updated set of optical-electronic components that are supplied by the Zagorsk Optical-Mechanical Plant (ZOMZ). These components are categorized under the index ИС-445 . A new generation panoramic sight and an enhanced laser rangefinder attachment for the gunner’s station comprise these components. The correspondence between UVZ and ZOMZ, which was publicized in Russian industrial procurement databases in mid-2025, indicates that “Ryvok-1” will be equipped with modular electronics that will enable the software reconfiguration of fire control profiles based on the type of ammunition. The baseline T-90M lacks this feature.
Improvements to the Engine and Mobility
It is anticipated that the T-90M2 will keep the V-92S2F engine (1,130 hp) that originally appeared on the T-90M but with reinforced transmission units and the potential integration of an auxiliary power unit (APU) for electronic systems, according to unofficial but credible technical data that is circulating in Russian-language defense forums, such as Гурхан/ otvaga2004. Nevertheless, the V-93 diesel engine, which is capable of producing up to 1,200 horsepower, may be tested in experimental vessels, according to internal UVZ testing protocols from 2024 to 2025.
The chassis has also been improved to accommodate wider tracks (up to 580 mm) and to enhance maneuverability in muddy terrain, as well as to extend the life of the track. The result includes a reconfigured torsion bar suspension. UVZ’s metallurgical base has initiated the production of a new composite steel alloy for the T-90M2’s undercarriage components in order to enhance durability, as indicated by reports in Russian-language media outlets such as Военное обозрение and Новости Тагила.
Armor and Protection System
The defensive survivability bundle is the core element of the T-90M2 modernization. Russian defense designers have focused a lot on improving both the passive protection layers and the hard-kill layers after learning from experiences with Ukrainian drones and anti-tank missiles. The “Ryvok-1” will incorporate the most recent iteration of динамическая защита “Реликт” (Relikt reactive armor) into modular side panels and turret cheeks. The Relikt modules have been improved with new explosive layers that make them better at protecting against both tandem-charge and top-attack weapons, according to the technical details released by the UVZ design bureau for the Russian army.
Rumors also suggest that the T-90M2 will feature an enhanced Arena-M active protection system, providing a 360° interception capability against incoming missiles and ATGMs. Arena-M’s radar array has been miniaturized to reduce weight, enabling it to be affixed without modifying the turret’s external contours, according to Russian technical sources. The completion of trials for a new dual-band radar sensor for short- and medium-range anti-tank threat engagement has been confirmed by reports from Арзамасский приборостроительный завод имени Пландина, one of the Arena system developers.
According to reports, the T-90M2’s turret’s passive armor structure is composed of stratified composite elements that were developed through research conducted in the “Armata” program. These elements include advanced ceramic inserts and NERA (non-explosive reactive armor) modules. Even the frontal section of the hull has been reorganized to more effectively deflect kinetic penetrators at a wider approach angle, as indicated by field service documentation. Additionally, the turret canopy has been reinforced to counter drone-deployed submunitions.
Enhancements to Firepower and Targeting
The T-90M2 maintains the 125 mm smoothbore cannon 2A46M-5 that is present on the Proryv. However, it may incorporate the enhanced 2A82-1M gun from the T-14 Armata in later manufacturing runs. The tank’s fire control and aiming suite has been digitalized to the extent that it can now automatically track targets with AI-assisted stabilization software derived from the “Sosna-U” architecture, according to a Russian analysis published on Бастион-Карпатов in 2025.
Including armor-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot (APFSDS), high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT), and guided missiles such as “Инвар-М” and the new “Спринтер” series, which can be launched through the main gun barrel, the main weapon supports the full spectrum of Russian 125 mm ammunition. The 7.62 mm PKT machine gun, which is coaxial, is now remotely stabilized and integrated into the same target display as the main gunner’s viewfinder. The 12.7 mm Kord heavy machine gun is mounted on an updated remote weapons station with enhanced automated reload access.
Crew Ergonomics and Battlefield Networking
According to Russian sources, the “Ryvok-1” tank will be equipped with a new digital intercommunication system that will connect it to Russian tactical networks. This network-centric integration will enable real-time positioning updates, adversary tagging, and communication with artillery or UAV reconnaissance. The “Созвездие-М2” (Sozvezdie-M2) architecture is the foundation of the hardware platform, which facilitates encrypted connections up to the battalion command level.
Crew protection and comfort have been somewhat enhanced within the tank by the implementation of improved insulation and air conditioning systems, particularly in southern operational theaters. According to Russian reports, the tank has transitioned to a multifunctional digital interface and a color thermal imaging feed, which have replaced analog dials. The classical T-90 configuration is maintained, with the commander, gunner, and driver forming the crew of three. However, electronic panels and fewer physical control rods have been implemented. The 2A46M-5 gun’s autoloader mechanism is largely unchanged; however, it has been equipped with reinforced safety interlocks to mitigate the danger of ammunition cook-off in the event of penetration.
Economic Consequences of Production Scale
During its prime operations from 2006 to 2010, Uralvagonzavod historically produced large-scale outputs of up to 140 tanks annually. Uralvagonzavod achieved this by supplying both complete tanks and kits to India for licensed T-90S assembly. The factory has produced more than 100 tanks annually in at least six distinct cycles, which include both domestic and export orders, as evidenced by industrial documents in Russian between 2001 and 2023. Frontelligence Insight observes that UVZ can effortlessly restore such production rates using its existing facilities, given the high attrition rates in Ukraine and the state’s demand for replenishment.
The Ministry of Defense’s unified tank fleet renewal policy expects the modernization program that produces T-90M2 vehicles to function within state contracts. This program will consolidate production lines for T-72B3M, T-80BVM, and T-90M2. Russian state media has verified investments in metallurgical and component subcontractors, such as Omsktransmash and Chelyabinsk Tractor Plant, to supply armor components and turrets on a large scale.
A Strategic Perspective
The T-90M2 “Ryvok-1” is anticipated to serve as the foundation of Russian armored forces by 2029, in addition to the enhanced T-72 and T-80 platforms. Its introduction serves as an interim modernization measure, as the T-14 Armata continues to be produced in limited quantities. “Ryvok-1” is designed to combine battlefield survivability with affordability, as per Russian analysts. This is achieved by incorporating specific technologies derived from Armata and leveraging the demonstrated reliability of the T-90 chassis.
It is probable that the complete standardization of T-90M2 systems will facilitate the establishment of interoperable supply chains and simplified maintenance cycles throughout the Russian tank fleet. The T-90M2 “Ryvok-1” is not only a product of technical refinement but also an industrial necessity, as evidenced by the current documentation. This reflects Russia’s adaptation to wartime manufacturing conditions and its intention to stabilize an armored core for the long-term replacement of casualties.