Iraqi People's Mobilization Forces (PMF), supported by Iran and functioning separately from the country's armed forces, demonstrated their combat potential. 26 June at the base in Ashraf PMF troops, up to 150 thousand. fighters, held a military parade, showing off your technique.
As noted in 21AAR, took part in the celebrations, in particular, more than two dozen tanks. Among them were 9 T-72, which have been extensively upgraded; seven of them were equipped with a new set of armor, and two are identified as T-72S, operated by the regular Iranian army and the IRGC.
T-72S were acquired by Tehran in the 1990s to replenish the dwindling fleet of British and American-made tanks.. Newer T-72s, participating in the parade 26 June, deserve special attention. In appearance, they are closer to the Serbian modifications of the T-72 - MBT M-84AS1 / AS2, being also similar to the Czech model T-72 "Scarab".
Soviet T-72 - one of the most battle-tested tanks in the world, but they are notorious for the vulnerable carousel magazine, mounted under the automatic loader for the 125 mm 2A46M gun. When the lower half of the hull or the flanks of the turret are penetrated by high-explosive fragmentation shells, this often results in ammunition detonation, stored in the store, and the destruction of the tank
– specified in 21AAR.
Seven upgraded T-72s, transferred by Iran to PMF, towers are large and surrounded by composite panels, what, according to the author, "doubles the thickness of their armor", while the back of the turret was covered with bars. Under the tower and above the "glacis" [sloping front hull] composite armor panels were also added. Tank caterpillars are partially covered with new rubber side screens, fastened rows of armored panels, and rectangular sheets, suspended on either side of the engine compartment. External fuel tanks, located at the back of the case, also have a different shape.
Export of upgraded T-72s along with other Iranian weapons systems to Tehran's proxy, such as PMF, is a worrying trend for NATO, as they can then be transferred elsewhere, eg, to Syria to take part in the battles against the USA or Turkey
– indicated in the edition.
used photos:https://21stcenturyasianarmsrace.com/
