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| source: Uzbek MoD |
In a remarkable move to adapt to the realities of contemporary battlefields, Uzbekistan has unveiled a significant upgrade program for its aging fleet of T-64 main battle tanks.
These formidable vehicles, some over 60 years old, are receiving comprehensive overhauls that include new armor and engine systems, specifically tailored to withstand the pervasive threat of modern drones.
The modernized T-64 was recently showcased at the Victory Park exhibition in Tashkent, marking its first public appearance.
This ambitious program reflects a notable shift in Uzbekistan’s defense philosophy, prioritizing survivability in an era where unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can deliver devastating top-attack threats.
A striking aspect of the upgraded Uzbek T-64 is its redesigned turret and hull, which are now fully encased in protective armor.
This new shielding is believed to incorporate advanced ceramic elements, offering enhanced protection against a variety of modern munitions.
Notably, the original Soviet-era optics and reactive armor blocks have been replaced, and the turret’s profile has been streamlined, with an extended rear possibly housing new electronics or auxiliary systems.
Under the hood, the change is equally significant. The obsolete 5TDF engine has been swapped out for a modern South Korean Doosan DP222LC diesel engine, boosting power output to 950 horsepower.
This upgrade enhances the tank’s mobility, allowing it to reach a maximum speed of 65 km/h and extending its operational range to 500 km, all managed through an automatic transmission.
While the main armament remains the reliable 125 mm 2A46 main gun, the focus of this modernization is clearly on protection and situational awareness against evolving threats.
Uzbekistan inherited a substantial number of T-64B tanks during the Soviet withdrawal in the late 1980s. For decades, many of these tanks remained in storage.
This current modernization effort, reportedly led by Semey Engineering, signifies the maturation of Uzbekistan’s domestic defense industry.
By addressing vulnerabilities exposed in recent global conflicts, particularly concerning drone warfare.
Uzbekistan’s upgraded T-64 offers a compelling template for other nations operating similar aging tank fleets looking to adapt to 21st-century battlefield challenges without acquiring entirely new, expensive platforms.
This initiative positions Uzbekistan as a capable regional player in armored vehicle upgrades.