The Soviet, Russian T-80B tank. The world’s first tank with a gas turbine engine. For its unique aerodynamic characteristics named a “flying tank”. The basic model of the T-80 entered service with the Soviet Army in 1976 (modification T-80B – in 1978). The main armament is a 125 mm smoothbore tank gun. The T-80B modification reinforced the tower’s armor and supplied an upgraded cannon, the Cobra guided weapon system, a fire control system and a smoke grenade launch system.

The T-80 and its variants are in service in Belarus, Cyprus, Egypt, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Russia, South Korea, and Ukraine. The chief designer of the T-80 was the Russian engineer Nikolay Popov.

Vadim Zadorozhny’s Museum of Equipment, Moscow

Years of production: 1976-1998

Country of origin: USSR, Russia

Issued: 5600 items

Weight: 42 t

Power: 110 hp

Speed: 70 km/h

Crew: 3 persons

Manufacturers:  LKZ and OmskTransmash (Russia), Malyshev Factory (Ukraine).

Read more: Tanks and fighting vehicles with Andrew Pantele ...