Following the classic Soviet doctrine, the T-72 was easy to manufacture, simple to use, robust, and reliable. It mounted a powerful 125mm gun with an autoloader to replace the loader, producing a compact and relatively light tank with a significantly greater level of armour protection, powered by a reliable, tried and tested engine.

The updated T-72A saw widespread use, being the mainstay of the Soviet tank forces facing the US Army across the Iron Curtain, including the 15th ‘Mozyr’ Guards Tank Division in Czechoslovakia.

The latest model has the improved 2A46 gun firing fin-stabilised ammunition capable of penetrating any tank in the world. A new laser rangefinder and stabilisation system give it unprecedented accuracy, while the bulged armour on the turret front conceals a high-tech composite armour radically increasing its survivability.