Kremlin speeds up T-90 production - analysts say how many tanks they want to build

Starting from 2026, Russia intends to sharply increase production of modernised T-90 tanks, including the new version of the T-90M2 Ryvok-1, and restore pre-war tank reserves. This is according to a report by the Uralvagonzavod Research and Production Corporation, analysed by the Frontelligence Insight project .

Key figures and timelines

• By 2028, production of modernised T-90 tanks is to increase by almost 80% compared to the 2024 level.

• Between 2027 and 2029, it is planned to produce, modernise or overhaul 1,118 tanks of the T-90M and T-90M2 models.

• The Ryvok-1 model will start production in 2026 - 10 units per year in the first phase.

• The overall plan: about 290 tanks in 2027 and 428 in 2028, taking into account repairs and modernisation.

• After 2029, according to the documents, Uralvagonzavod will focus mainly on repair and modernisation rather than new serial assemblies.

Analysts at the Institute for the Study of War have previously estimated that under ideal conditions UVZ is capable of producing 60-70 T-90 tanks per year, but now the plant actually produces about 3-6 units per month.

The Conflict Intelligence Team project questions the official figures - the stated 28-30 tanks per year seems understated. There are reasons to believe that the production volume could actually be much higher.

Why it matters

• The revival of production of the T-90M and T-90M2 indicates Russia's desire not just to restore tank reserves, but also to modernise the fleet, adapting it to modern requirements.

• Increasing production against the background of significant losses of equipment on the Ukrainian front is of strategic importance.

• The ability to quickly modernise and repair tanks after 2029 could be a decisive factor in restoring combat capability.

Russia is clearly preparing for a long-term tank campaign, and plans to produce T-90s indicate that the Kremlin intends to use the tanks not only in the war in Ukraine, but also to consider their role in possible conflicts with NATO neighbours. Ukraine and its allies should take this factor into account in their strategic planning," the report said.

We would like to point out that Russia says that the T-90 tank is equipped with a turret module with a 125-mm cannon, which ensures the use of new high-performance ammunition and guided missiles that can destroy, in particular, other tanks and armoured vehicles at a distance of up to 5 km.