Russian forces have begun deploying T-72B3A tanks equipped with the Arena-M active protection system in the Ukraine operational zone, according to a report by the Russian newspaper Izvestia. The report claims these tanks have been assigned to assault units for penetration operations and attacks against Ukrainian defensive positions and fortifications.
While the Arena-M system may improve survivability against guided missiles and anti-tank rockets, its effectiveness against threats such as suicide drones has not been conclusively demonstrated in practice. Additionally, the limited ammunition for the countermeasure system could reduce its effectiveness during multiple or simultaneous attacks.
Other threats including minefields, anti-tank obstacles, and artillery fire remain significant challenges for armored units. As a result, the success of these tanks will depend heavily on engineering support, infantry coordination, and proper application of combat tactics.