Image source: Photo: JSC Omsktransmash
Despite their advanced age (63 years), the famous Soviet T-55 medium tanks are in no hurry to retire. They still remain in service in the armies of more than fifty countries.
In some of them, these tanks are being upgraded, in others, new batches of "fifty-fifths" are being purchased. So, recently, units of the Border Corps of Pakistan, guarding the border with Afghanistan, purchased more than 280 T-55N in Serbia for $ 75 million.
This technique serves to strengthen border posts, as simple and cheap fire support vehicles.
In Russia, JSC Omsk Plant of Transport Engineering, which produced the T-55 until 1979, developed its own version of extending the life of the legendary veteran tank.
Thus, much attention is paid to improving survivability, it is proposed to install built-in dynamic and mine protection, on-board anti-cumulative screens, high-speed fire-fighting equipment, as well as a smoke grenade launcher system.
The gunner-operator receives a multi-channel sight with a built-in laser rangefinder and a missile control system launched through the barrel of a 100 mm cannon.
The commander will be able to monitor the situation through the updated TKN-1CM device, and the driver's seat is equipped with a combined TVK-3 device. The tank also receives advanced means of communication. Combat weight increases to 4000 kg. The engine power is 690 hp. The maximum speed is 50 km/h. The fuel reserve is 610 km . The crew is 4 people.