Russia's tank struggle: Depleted reserves and faltering production
According to an analysis by Resurgam in the OSINT (open-source intelligence) community, Russia has depleted most of its tank reserves, and its defense industry is struggling to compensate for the battlefield losses.
Russia is facing significant challenges in mechanizing its armed forces. Based on Resurgam's analysis, since 2022, Russia has withdrawn over 4,000 tanks from service, which comprises 54% of the vehicles that are eligible for renovation. Current estimates suggest there are about 3,500 tanks in storage, but their technical condition is so poor that most can only be used for spare parts.
Issues with production and renovation
Analysts note a drastic decline in the production of new tanks in Russia. In 2022, the production rate was 120 units per month, but by the end of 2023, it had fallen to 90 tanks per month. In 2024, the output ranged from 33 to 75 vehicles per month, ending the year with 50 tanks produced. At the beginning of 2025, the production rate was only 30-35 tanks per month, and it may drop further due to the lack of T-80 tanks for refurbishment.
Resurgam, in calculating losses, notes that not only did tank production rates begin to decline, but there was also a reduction in the number of tanks lost by Russian forces. This is because Russia has dwindling equipment to fight with. From September to November 2024, 300-400 tanks were destroyed monthly, whereas from December 2024 to January 2025, the number fell to 200-240 units.
The future of Russian armed forces
OSINT analysts point out that about 1,200 tanks from Russian storage can be relatively easily returned to service after major repairs. In light of these challenges, Russia is being forced to seek alternative solutions to maintain the combat capabilities of its armed forces, which are becoming increasingly strained each month.
Russia's best tanks
Resurgam's analysis highlights the production of T-90M Proryv tanks, which are among the most advanced designs remaining in Russia's mechanized forces. These tanks feature a modern 125 mm 2A46M-5 cannon and an upgraded fire control system known as Kalina. Additional protection is provided by Relikt reactive armor, which shields both the turret and the hull. The tank's armament is complemented by two machine guns with calibers of 7.62 mm and 12.7 mm.
Analysts also mention the T-80 tanks, particularly the BWM variant, as the second-best machines after the T-90M for the Russian forces. The T-80BWM variant is well-armored with Relikt reactive armor, a two-layer shield that offers protection against tandem warhead missiles. The T-80BWM's engine is a gas turbine, and it is equipped with an advanced Sosna-U fire control system with a thermal sight.
