Russia’s New T-14 Armata Tank Enters Final Stage of Testing: Exports and Beginning of Mass Production Expected in Coming Years

Russia’s next generaton main battle tank the T-14 Armata has entered the final stage of state testing, according to a statement by an official from Uralvagonzavod, which could be followed by the design entering mass production. Unveiled in 2015, the tank is currently in low level production and in limited service with the Russian armed forces - but is not yet ready for high intensity combat. Statements regarding the testing process and the tank’s development were answered at the Defexpo India-2020 - where Russia has marketed a number of advanced weapons systems. India is considered a leading potential client for the platform, with its domestic Arjun tank program leaving much to be desired, and orders are likely to be placed once the design matures. The Indian Army is currently receiving deliveries of several hundred T-90 battle tanks - the predecessor of the T-14 which in its most advanced variants integrates many T-14 technologies.

While it was reported that no fundamental changes will be made to the T-14’s design, a number of additions are reportedly under consideration from a larger 152mm gun to latrine facilities. The tank is one of just three fourth generation battle tanks in service, alongside the South Korean K2 Black Panther and the Japanese Type 10, and is expected to form the elite of Russian armoured units alongside lighter T-90M and BMPT-72 platforms. Work is reportedly currently undermine to modernise the T-14’s 2A82-1M gun - which is capable of deploying a wide range of specialised munitions from penetrative rounds to surface to air munitions. The Russian military in early 2018 confirmed an order for two T-14 battalions, although with production still on a small scale these orders will not be met before 2022. With the military expressing considerable faith in the design, which has considerable room for further modernisation, mass production is likely to begin by the mid-late 2020s - possibly much sooner should export orders be placed.