Main Battle Tank
T-14 Armata
The T-14 Armata is a Russian next-generation main battle tank built by Uralvagonzavod, part of Rostec. Unveiled in 2015, it introduced an unmanned turret and an armoured crew capsule, but its production and fielding remain far smaller than Russian officials first announced.
Russia|Uralvagonzavod (Rostec)Overview
First shown at the Victory Day parade in Moscow in May 2015, the T-14 is based on the Armata heavy tracked platform. Its three crew sit in an armoured capsule in the hull front, while the 125 mm 2A82-1M gun and autoloader sit in a remotely controlled turret. Russian sources cite Malachit reactive armour and the Afganit active protection system. The 12N360 diesel is rated at 1,500 hp, with claimed speeds of 75–80 km/h and a weight of about 55 t.
Russian officials announced serial production several times, and Rostec head Sergey Chemezov said in March 2024 that the tank had entered service, but independent evidence of large-scale fielding is lacking and total output is usually estimated in the low tens. Chemezov also said the army preferred the cheaper T-90M. State media reported T-14s firing in Ukraine in 2023, yet no frontline combat use has been independently verified, and no export contract has been confirmed.
Key Specifications
Variants
The main battle tank of the family, with an unmanned turret, 125 mm 2A82-1M gun and a three-person armoured crew capsule.
Heavy infantry fighting vehicle on the Armata chassis, with the engine moved to the front to make room for dismounted troops.
Armoured recovery vehicle based on the Armata platform, designed to tow and repair damaged vehicles of the family.
Operators
RussiaFrequently Asked Questions
How much does a T-14 Armata cost?
The price of a T-14 has never been officially confirmed. Estimates range from about $3.7–4.6 million (2015) to $5–7 million (2022), and Rostec’s chief has said cost was a reason the army prefers the T-90M.
How many T-14 Armata does Russia have?
Nobody outside Russia knows exactly; independent estimates put total T-14 production in the low tens. Russia has announced serial production several times, but there is no evidence of large-scale fielding.
Is the T-14 Armata in Ukraine?
There is no verified frontline combat use of the T-14 in Ukraine. Russian state media said in 2023 that T-14s fired from indirect positions and were later withdrawn, and Rostec’s chief said in 2024 the tank was unlikely to be used there.
T-14 Armata vs Abrams: which is better?
On paper the T-14 offers newer ideas such as an unmanned turret and crew capsule, while the M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams is combat-proven and built in large numbers. Without verified combat data or real production, the T-14’s advantages remain unproven.
How fast is the T-14 Armata?
The T-14 Armata has a claimed top road speed of 75–80 km/h, powered by a 1,500 hp 12N360 X-shaped diesel engine. Its range is about 500 km, according to Russian figures.
Which countries want to buy the T-14 Armata?
No country has signed a confirmed contract for the T-14. India, Egypt and Vietnam were named in media reports as possible customers, but no export order or delivery has been confirmed.