High maneuverability of the tank is ensured by the GTD-1250 gas-turbine engine developing 920 kW (1,250 h.p.) and a new two-flow transmission. The new tank can make turns at any radius, with a considerable reduction in fuel consumption.
The T-80UM1 Bars is fitted with the Arena active protection system and the Shtora optronic countermeasures sys-tem. The Bars differs essentially from the basic T-80U version by a more power-ful armament and improved armour plating. The use of enhanced ammuni-tion for the 2A46M-1 125mm gun has increased armour piercing capability. The tank’s built-in reactive armour was also upgraded.
The Bars should improve Russia’s competitiveness on the world market during the next decade. Ros-voorouzhenie’s representatives refused to name potential customers of the new tank. However, at the Exhibition the representatives of several Southeast Asia countries have taken an interest in the tank, ITAR-TASS has said.
The specialists of Omsk Transport Machine-building Plant refused to tell the price of the tank but it likely exceeds US$ 3 million. For example, the Ros-voorouzhenie company asks US$ 2.5 to 3.0 million for the basic T-80U version depending on delivery set.
RUSSIA AND CIS's AEROSPACE & MILITARY MARKET number 1