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T-34-85 Model 1969
Introduction
The T-34-85 (1969) or Model 1969, also sometimes semi-incorrectly referred to as the “T-34-85M”, represents the final and most comprehensive post-war modernization of the legendary T-34-85. This upgrade program aimed to extend the tank’s combat effectiveness and service life well into the Cold War. The 1969 standardization brought together nearly all previously developed improvements, ranging from mobility and optics upgrades to communications and external modifications, into a single, unified package. Rather than being an entirely new variant, the Model 1969 was the culmination of successive modernization efforts, incorporating enhancements trialed in earlier programs to create the most refined and combat-ready version of the T-34-85 platform.
The above image depicts a historically confirmed variant of the T-34-85 (1969). Zaloga: “Post-war, remaining T-34-85s in the Red Army were put through two major rebuilds, resulting in the Model 1960 and Model 1969 variants. This is a T-34-85 Model 1969. Some rebuilds include the reinforced mounting for the external fuel tanks, the new starfish wheels, and the infra-red driver’s headlight on the left side, with the white light searchlight sometimes moved to the right side. This tank has a post-war composite turret with split mushroom vents.”
T-34-85 (1969) History
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The development of the T-34 began in the late 1930s as a response to the need for a modern, well-armored, and mobile tank to replace outdated Soviet designs. It evolved from a series of prototypes, starting with the BT series of fast tanks, particularly the BT-7M, which served as a testbed for a new diesel engine and sloped armor concepts. This led to the A-20, a 4-roadwheel prototype with thin armor, and then the more advanced A-32, which introduced 5 road wheels, thicker armor, and a 76.2 mm gun. Finally, the A-34 prototype, tested in 1939, became the direct ancestor of the T-34. After successful trials, it entered mass production in 1940 as the T-34 Model 1940. From there, it evolved rapidly through wartime upgrades, culminating in the T-34-85 in 1944. After World War II, the T-34-85 underwent a series of modernization programs aimed at extending its service life. This series of enhancements ultimately culminated in the T-34-85 (Model 1969), which incorporated most of the key modifications developed over the previous two decades.
Why bother with T-34s in the late 1960s? The answer is simple: thousands of T-34-85s had already been produced and were sitting in storage. Rather than scrapping them, it made far more sense to transfer them to allied states and movements in support of broader political and strategic objectives. Many of these allies lacked trust, resources, infrastructure, and training required to operate more sophisticated armored vehicles. In that respect, the T-34 was actually well suited to the role. It was mechanically simple, rugged, and easy to maintain compared to newer tanks.
It’s also important to avoid viewing these conflicts through the lens of Cold War superpowers. Just because advanced anti-tank weapons such as the TOW missile existed in U.S. service at the time did not mean that every sandal-wearing rebel group in Africa or the Middle East had access to them. In many cases, insurgent forces possessed few or no effective anti-tank weapons at all. Under those conditions, an aging T-34 could still provide valuable fire support, protection, and a significant psychological advantage. As a result, despite its age and obsolescence against modern armies, the T-34-85 continued to achieve a measure of success in a number of post-war conflicts.
P.S These postwar upgrades are often collectively and somewhat incorrectly referred to as the T-34-85M, a general designation encompassing various national and factory-level refits. This classification is somewhat supported by Przemysław Skulski in his own research and publications. He specifically states that "in some countries (Vietnam, for instance) called the 1969 version “T-34-85M.” Nevertheless, this suggestion is going to maintain the T-34-85 (1969) designation.
T-34-85 (1969) Full List of Visible Upgrades (Full Package):
- Rear mounted fuel drums
- Side mounted smoke canisters
- Side mounted fuel pump box
- Upgraded ventilation system/split mushroom vents
- Improved commander’s hatch/cupola
- Squared front fenders
- One basic headlight mounted on the right side
- One headlight covered with blackout on the left side (possibly IR)
- Turret mounted red traffic light or rear facing turret mounted projector (possibly IR)
- T-55 style “starfish” road wheels
- Wooden splash guard
Lack of Uniformity
Spoiler
It is imperative to note that not all Cold War T-34-85s received every upgrade that I listed above. Equipment varied depending on the year of refurbishment, refurbishment facility, end user requirements, and export configuration. In his work, Steven Zaloga refers to the modernized Cold War-era T-34-85s as the T-34-85 Model 1969, even though he acknowledges that these tanks often lacked full uniformity in their upgrades.
The above schematic clearly highlights the core issue. The top drawings show the near full upgrade package but retain the older turret roof design, while the bottom drawing includes the improved turret roof, yet still uses the T-54 style road wheels and retains the rear-mounted smoke canisters. Interestingly, both drawings feature the rear-mounted IR spotlight on the turret, whereas the first reference image I provided does not. It is important to note, that I have found no photographic evidence that shows the “full package” with the rear mounted projector. However, there is evidence that shows them being used on the earlier 60s versions. Most images of Model 1969 show them being equipped with a simple red traffic light instead, as seen in the first image.
T-34-85 (1960)
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The Model 1969 is often confused with the Model 1960, as the two share several external features. Despite these similarities, they are distinct modernization variants. The T-34-85 Model 1960 is arguably the most recognizable Cold War-era upgrade of the T-34-85. Most of the improvements were internal, meaning that externally it retained a strong resemblance to late-war production vehicles. The T-34-85 Model 1960 can be identified by the presence of several Cold War-era upgrades while still retaining the smoke canister mounts, or what remains of them (wires), on the rear hull slope.
Take note of the projector mounted at the top rear of the turret on this T-34-85 (1960), as well as the blackout light positioned on the front left. This type of rear-facing projector was mounted on most modern Soviet tanks and served as a reversing light or convoy signalling light, designed to assist the commander during low-light operations. It could be configured either as a standard white light or an infrared (IR) projector. According to Zaloga , the Model 1969 received upgraded optics that removed the need for older night-driving equipment, which may explain the absence of the turret-mounted projector on many examples.
The T-34-85 Model 1960 was primarily an internal modernization, with its most visible external change being the modified projectors. Otherwise, it closely resembled late-war T-34-85s, as noted by Skulski and Zaloga. However, it is clear that the T-34-85 began receiving Cold War-era upgrades well before 1969. Notably, Cypriot T-34-85s already featured starfish wheels and the fuel pump box by 1965. This particular example features T-55 starfish road wheels, a fuel pump box on the left glacis, and a wooden splash guard. While it lacks rear fuel tanks, improved turret ventilation, and smoke canisters (the remaining smoke canister wiring on the rear slope suggests they were removed at some point).
Specifics
Engine and Mobility
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In the 60s the tanks were upgraded with the V-2-34M-11 diesel engine, producing 500 hp at 1800 rpm. Some sources say it had 520 hp. This enhancement provided a modest boost in performance and reliability compared to the original V-2-34 engine. In addition, numerous startup assistance upgrades were introduced to help the vehicle start reliably in adverse conditions, particularly in cold weather. Cooling, Lubrication and Air-Filtration systems were also improved.
The T-34-85 (1969) incorporated T-55-style ‘starfish’ pressed steel road wheels, replacing the original cast or stamped wheels commonly seen on earlier T-34-85s. While visually similar to those used on the T-54/55, these wheels were not interchangeable between the tank types due to differences in hub design.
On this T-34B the T-54 style wheel is at the back, while the rest are T-55 style wheels. Notice the tank being equipped with an upgraded roof while lacking the other previously mentioned upgrades. Upon closer inspection you will also notice that they both are also slightly physically different to those of their T-54/55 counterparts.
The T-34-85 (1969)'s wheel is on the left.
This is from Zaloga’s book. He refers to a T-34-85 only equipped with T-55 style wheels as a T-34-85 (1969). He claims that any T-34-85 with T-55 style “Starfish” wheels is a T-34-85 (1969). However, he also acknowledges that “not all T -34-85 Model 1969 received this new wheel; it was added only when existing stocks of the older wheels were exhausted at local rebuilding plants.” Somalian T-34-85 (1969)s are an example equipped with older wheels.
Fuel
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The 1969 version introduced two barrels fuel barrels on an inclined stern sheet with a capacity of 200 liters each. The tank could travel 300 km on internal fuel and ~615km with the full fuel drum kit, given that the fuel consumption of the T-34-85 on roads averaged around 1.9–2.2 liters/km. The tank spare parts kit included a small-sized MZA-3 filling unit, placed in a transport position in a metal box mounted outside on the inclined left side of the hull. It simplified the refueling process, given that the external fuel drums were not connected to the engine.
The inward fuel drum holders on the T-34-85 can be mounted in different configurations, either positioned inside (closer to the engine access hatch) or outside the exhaust pipes, effectively shifting the entire fuel drums closer together toward the center or further apart toward the edges of the rear hull. This means the mounting layout is not standardized and may vary depending on the tank’s production batch, modernization program, or operator preference. Additionally, the fuel drums can be mounted at different vertical positions on the rear armor slope. When mounted too high, the drums risk obstructing the turret’s full rearward rotation, unless they are removed before combat. The gallery below includes examples of the T-34-85 Model 1969 where the fuel drums are positioned closer together and lower, minimizing interference with turret movement and reflecting one of the more practical configurations seen in the field.
Smoke
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The T-34-85 (1969) featured the TDP smoke generation system, which utilized MDSh smoke canisters mounted externally on the side. These canisters were electrically detonated from inside the tank, allowing the crew to deploy a smoke screen without exposing themselves to enemy fire. This system greatly enhanced the tank’s ability to disengage from combat or conceal movement, especially in open terrain or during retreats.
While the TDP smoke generation system was generally reliable under standard conditions, its performance could degrade over time due to factors such as weather sensitivity, aging chemical compounds, and electrical wiring issues, particularly in vehicles that were poorly maintained or stored in harsh environments. Additionally, the system was single-use, requiring manual replacement of the canisters after activation, which significantly limited its practicality. These limitations contributed to the system being rarely seen on many T-34-85 Model 1969 tanks, particularly those operated in harsh climate conditions, where exposure to heat, moisture, and dust often led to accelerated degradation or removal of the system altogether.
Communications and Electrical
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In the 1960s, the T-34-85’s electrical system was thoroughly modernized as part of the broader upgrade program. This overhaul included the installation of new wiring harnesses, improved circuit protection, and updated electrical panels and connectors, replacing outdated WWII-era components. These changes increased the system’s durability, resistance to short circuits, and overall operational reliability, especially important in harsh environments. The upgrades also allowed the tank to support more advanced onboard equipment introduced in postwar refits, marking a significant leap in electrical safety and functionality for continued frontline use.
The 1969 modernization introduced a significant upgrade to the T-34-85’s communication systems by replacing the outdated World War II-era equipment with the more advanced R-123 radio set and R-124 intercom system. The R-123 was a VHF radio that offered clearer, more reliable voice transmission over greater distances and was far more resistant to interference and signal degradation than the older 10-RT series radios. This allowed for improved coordination between tank units and command elements on the battlefield. The accompanying R-124 intercom system enhanced internal crew communication, ensuring more effective operation during combat by allowing all five crew members to communicate clearly even in high-noise environments. These upgrades significantly modernized the T-34-85’s battlefield networking capabilities, aligning them more closely with the standards of newer Soviet armored vehicles of the era.
Night Vision, Ventilation and the Commander’s Hatch
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To enhance its capabilities in night operations, the T-34-85 (1969) was fitted with the BVN night vision device for the driver, which allowed basic visibility in darkness. This system was supported by a IR projectors, typically FG-100 series, depending on availability and production batch. These infrared searchlights were mounted on the hull or at the top rear or of the turret, illuminating the battlefield with infrared light that was barely visible to the naked eye but detectable through the night vision optics. This setup allowed the driver to navigate and maneuver the tank in low-light or no-light conditions, something that was a significant limitation for earlier T-34 variants.
According to Zaloga, by 1969, the original infra-red night driving equipment on the T-34-85 was replaced with updated periscopes and modernized headlights, reflecting a broader effort to improve night-time visibility and operational effectiveness during Cold War-era upgrades.
Some T-34-85 (1969)s also featured improvements to the ventilation system, addressing one of the long-standing issues of the original T-34-85 design. The upgraded system enhanced air circulation within the fighting compartment. This not only improved crew comfort, but also slightly reduced the risk of overheating and internal condensation, contributing to greater operational reliability in a wider range of environmental conditions.
The tank featured a modified commander’s hatch, an improvement over the earlier wartime design. This hatch was single-piece, forward-opening. It was equipped with a rotating MK-4 periscope sight mounted on top, while a TPK-1 sight was positioned further forward in front of the cupola. Beyond just visibility, the hatch provided quicker entry and exit, which was crucial in combat emergencies. Its structure also offered better frontal protection while on the move, allowing the commander to observe the battlefield with greater safety during marches and offering better protection in case the crew is forced to abandon the vehicle.
Armament and Ammunition
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The T-34-85 (Model 1969) retained the same main armament as its World War II predecessors, the 85 mm ZiS-S-53 rifled tank gun. While the gun itself was unchanged, it was supported by several important upgrades in the 1969 modernization program, including an electric turret traverse motor and modernized optics. The ZiS-S-53 was originally designed to fire AP, APBC, APCR, and HE shells, but by the Cold War period, it was also potentially capable of using the BK-367, BK-367M, 3BK2 and 3BK2M HEAT-FS shells, shaped-charge shells that have ample penetration regardless of range. However, some shells designed for the D-44 divisional gun were not interchangeable with the ZiS-S-53. The ammunition load was reorganized to accommodate 55 rounds and 1890 cartridges for the DTM machine guns.
The image above shows a HEAT round compatible with the T-34-85’s main gun, specifically the 3BK-2 and 3BK-2M HEAT-FS rounds. The 3BK-2 uses a steel-lined shaped charge, while the 3BK-2M features an improved copper liner for greater penetration.
Some countries mounted heavy anti-air MGs on their modernized T-34-85 tanks, however there is no visual evidence of this from the USSR, Angola or Somalia with regards to the T-34-85 (1969) “full package” specifically. Nevertheless, if we take Zaloga’s word about the wheels, then a lot of T-34-85 (1969)s mounted heavy MGs. For example, the image below shows a Vietnamese T-34-85M featuring a simple yet distinctive DShK mount, positioned on the right side of the turret.
Summary
Distinguishing Features Brief
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The most reliable way to identify a true Model 1969 is by looking for key external features such as the box housing for the electric fuel pump and especially side-mounted smoke canister racks. According to Steven Zaloga, the presence of T-55-style “starfish” road wheels is also a strong visual indicator of a 1969 model, although even this feature was not universal. Other elements, such as rear-mounted 200L fuel drums, upgraded traffic lights, and the revised turret ventilation system, may or may not be present on the 1969 modernization. This variation underscores the lack of strict standardization among Cold War-era T-34-85 upgrades. The Angolan example number “D-230” is as good as it gets, as far as the photographic evidence goes.
While retaining the core design of the original T-34-85, the T-34-85 (1969) can be distinguished by several key features:
- Road Wheels: The adoption of T-55-style ‘starfish’ pressed steel road wheels is a clear visual indicator of the upgrade. Although similar in appearance to those on the T-54/55, these wheels were not interchangeable.
- External Equipment: The addition of rear-mounted 200-liter fuel drums, relocated smoke canisters to the left side, wooden splash guard and MZA-3 filling unit box also set the T-34-85 (1969) apart from earlier models.
- Turret Roof Modifications: Additionally, the ventilation system was upgraded with a revised turret vent layout. Unlike the original configuration, the modernized setup included one “mushroom” vent positioned at the front of the turret roof and another at the rear, providing improved airflow. Additionally, the commander’s hatch was also changed to the later version.
- Night Driving Equipment: The T-34-85 (1969) featured IR or normal blackout headlights mounted to the sides of the hull and maybe an IR or normal spotlight mounted at the rear of the turret, part of the upgraded night-driving system.
- Performance: The T-34-85 (1969) came with an improved engine, electronic turret traverse, improved optics and HEAT ammunition.
P.S It’s important not to confuse the T-34-85 Model 1969 with Czechoslovak-manufactured T-34-85s, which were also exported in large numbers to Africa and the Middle East. While both types often served side by side in the same armed forces, they are distinct variants. Czech-built T-34-85 (1953) are easily identified by their exceptionally smooth, high-quality turret castings, an intercom attachment below the rear left fuel tank, specific types of traffic lights, modified exhaust pipe armor and carried smoke canisters on the rear slope. They typically lack some of the most prominent 1969 modernization features, making them more akin to late-war or early post-war Soviet configurations. Although, it is not a guarantee.
Conclusion
Spoiler
Overall, the T-34-85 (1969)'s enhancements focused on extending the service life of the original T-34-85 by integrating updated components and systems such as improved road wheels, modernized communications equipment, uprated ammunition, improved mechanical equipment, better electrical wiring, increased fuel capacity, and night-driving capabilities. These upgrades ensured that the tank remained relevant and functional in the evolving post-WWII battlefield, even as more advanced designs like the T-55 and T-62 entered widespread service.
The various modified T-34-85s were widely used by Warsaw Pact nations for training, reserve forces, and internal security roles. However, the true legacy, of the T-34-85 (Model 1969) specifically, lies in its vast global export footprint. These modernized variants found their way into some of the most intense conflicts of the 1980s, including wars in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. In one form or another, the T-34-85 continued to serve in numerous other conflicts, even into the 21st century.
With over 80,000 units built, the T-34 remains one of the most iconic, influential, and long-serving tanks in military history. If you read or hear about a T-34 being used during the Cold War or even into the 2000s, it was most likely a T-34-85 (1969) or a similar modernization.
Implementation
Spoiler
In War Thunder, the T-34-85 (Model 1969) would likely feature minor yet meaningful performance improvements over the standard T-34-85 variants already in the game. It could be slightly more mobile due to its modernized engine, and benefit from a faster turret traverse speed, thanks to the inclusion of an electric traverse motor. Most importantly, it would have access to post-war ammunition, including the HEAT rounds, giving it a significant firepower upgrade. It would also feature the ability to deploy smoke, something that most T-34-85s in-game lack. With these enhancements, the T-34-85 (1969) would realistically be the best T-34-85 in the game. However, the real appeal would be visual, with a proper Cold War-era refit featuring T-55-style road wheels, external fuel drums, updated turret details, and other subtle yet historically accurate cosmetic changes. These features would help the T-34-85 (1969) stand out from its WWII-era counterparts and offer players a visually rich and immersive representation of Cold War Soviet armor.
Gaijin has a consistent habit of removing Soviet rear-mounted external fuel drums from various tank models. However, when it comes to the T-34-85 (Model 1969), these fuel drums should be retained for the sake of visual impact and historical authenticity. In most documented configurations, the fuel drums are positioned in a way that does not obstruct the turret’s ability to fully traverse, including to the rear, so they would not interfere with gameplay. Moreover, photographic evidence of captured and destroyed T-34-85 (1969)s shows that many of these tanks entered combat with their external fuel drums still attached. This clearly demonstrates that, contrary to common belief, the drums were in some cases not removed before battle.
The T-34-85 (Model 1969) should be placed in the USSR tech tree, as there is clear visual and photographic evidence of Soviet forces operating this specific modernized variant during their intervention in Afghanistan. Its deployment in that conflict confirms that the USSR retained and actively fielded upgraded T-34-85s well into the late Cold War era. This is also supported by the previously cited Zaloga’s statement, that indicates the Soviet T-34-85s were on the mainland undergoing these upgrades. To further reflect the tank’s widespread global use, the tank could be added to Cuba or given an Angolan (D-230) skin as an optional customization option, providing players with cosmetic variety.
Disclaimer: All aspects of this suggestion are ultimately up to Gaijin’s discretion to decide and implement. This includes the vehicle’s battle rating (BR), nation (tree), available ammunition types, and visual features.
T-34-85 (1969) – Specifications
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General Characteristics:
- Designation: T-34-85 (1969)
- Origin: USSR
- Type: Medium Tank
- Crew: 5 (Commander, Gunner, Loader, Driver, Radio Operator/Bow MG)
Dimensions:
- Length (gun forward): ~8.15 m
- Hull length: ~6.68 m
- Width: 3.00 m
- Height: 2.45 m
- Combat weight: ~32 tons
Mobility & Engine:
- Engine: V-2-34M-11 500 hp @ 1800 rpm (Or 520 hp at 2000 rpm)
- Alternatively V-2-34M
- Transmission: 5-speed manual
- Fuel Tanks:
- Internal + external (manually emptied)
- Electric fuel pump added for easier refueling
- Top Speed (road): ~61 km/h
- Maximum Range (road): ~615 km
- Road Wheels: T-55-style ‘starfish’ pressed steel
Armament:
- Main Gun: 85 mm ZiS-S-53
- Ammo Load: Up to 55 rounds (Including 3BK-2 and 3BK-2M HEAT-FS)
- Coaxial MG: 7.62 mm DT
- Bow MG: 7.62 mm DT
- Turret Rotation Speed: 21.2°/s
- Vertical Guidance: -0.5/25.0°
- Optional: Some post-war T-34-85 variants were fitted with additional heavy Anti-Air MGs
Armor:
- Hull Armor:
- Front (Upper Glacis): 45 mm @ 60° (~90 mm effective)
- Lower Glacis: 45 mm @ 45°
- Sides: 45 mm (vertical)
- Rear: 40–45 mm
- Floor: 15–20 mm (thicker under engine and fighting compartment)
- Turret Armor:
- Front: 75–90 mm (cast, rounded)
- Sides: 75 mm
- Rear: 52 mm
- Roof: 20 mm
Optics & Electronics:
- Night Driving Equipment:
- BVN driver’s night vision device + Blackout IR headlight (on one side or both) and turret mounted projector (Disputed)
- Commander’s Cupola: A one-piece hatch and 5 vision blocks + modernized optics
- Radio: R-123
- Internal Systems: Fully rewired electrical system, improved reliability and safety
Historic Gallery and Conflicts
Angolan T-34-85 Model 1969
Spoiler
The Angolan T-34-85s offer perhaps the closest visual representation of the full Cold War upgrade package associated with the T-34-85 Model 1969. These tanks, while among the most comprehensively modernized examples in photographic records, still lacked full uniformity. That said, many images show tanks that are only missing the turret mounted projector, suggesting they were equipped with nearly all other components of the upgrade package.
Zaloga: “It shows the full range of Model 1969 features: starfish wheels, infra-red driver’s headlight, the external fuel pump box, repositioned MDSh racks on the hull side and rear fuel drum stowage racks.” And a new roof with the new hatch. Looks exactly the same as the first image provided.
In Angola, the T-34-85 (1969) saw significant service during the Angolan Civil War, which began in 1975 and lasted until 2002. These tanks were primarily operated by FAPLA (People’s Armed Forces for the Liberation of Angola) and supported by Cuban military advisors and expeditionary forces, especially during the late 1970s and early 1980s. These tanks, many of which were modernized with the Model 1969 upgrade package, were used in combat throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s. However, their limitations quickly became apparent. Cubans reportedly complained to the Soviets, stating that they could not continue fighting wars with T-34s, especially against better-armed South African and UNITA forces. This feedback played a role in the eventual delivery of T-55s and more modern equipment to the region.
The Ogaden/Badme War T-34-85 Model 1969
Spoiler
During the Ogaden War (1977–1978), both Ethiopia and Somalia deployed T-34-85 tanks in combat, including modernized versions such as the T-34-85 Model 1969. Interestingly, some Somali T-34-85s appear to incorporate nearly the full suite of post-war upgrades, missing only a few minor elements. Although Somalia operated T-34-85 Model 1969, they also made extensive use of Czechoslovak-built T-34-85 (1953). The Ethiopian Army also fielded 56 T-34-85s during the war, details on their exact configurations are less documented, though they did capture a lot of Somali tanks. After the war, Ethiopian alongside captured Somali T-34-85 Model 1969s tanks remained service well beyond the 1970s, with some examples reportedly used as late as the Badme War (1998–2000) against Eritrea. This prolonged operational life highlights the durability and continued relevance of the Model 1969, even decades after its initial development.
These Ogaden War-era T-34-85s are nearly identical to the first example image provided, with the primary difference being the road wheels. Other key features, including the commander’s hatch, headlights, roof, fuel pump box, rear-mounted fuel drums, and smoke canister holders, are all present and consistent with the “full package” upgrade.
This particular T-34-85 (1969) was abandoned by Ethiopian forces during the Badme War in the year 2000. It’s unclear whether it was a former captured Somali vehicle from the Ogaden War or part of the original Soviet delivery, but its presence on the battlefield highlights the remarkable longevity of the T-34-85 in active service.
Soviet T-34-85 Model 1960/69 in Afghanistan
Spoiler
The modified T-34-85 also saw service in Afghanistan, used by both Soviet forces and Soviet-aligned Afghan government troops. Its high gun elevation made it particularly well-suited for mountainous warfare, allowing it to engage targets on steep terrain where more modern Soviet tanks struggled. Additionally, its mechanical simplicity and ease of maintenance meant that it could be quickly mastered by local crews, making it a practical and reliable asset in such a rugged environment.
According to the photographs, these Soviet-supplied tanks appear to lack the upgraded ventilation system and blackout projectors, while all other key features of the modernization package are present in some form.
Community Skin: WT Live // Camouflage by FlyingDuckOfSky
Other Conflicts
Spoiler
These wrecks, originating from two different African nations feature the side-mounted smoke canister mounts/brackets.
This tank from Yemen features the fuel pump box and the T-55 style “starfish” road wheels.
These Cypriot (likely originally Yugoslav T-34-85Bs) feature the fuel pump box, the T-55 style “starfish” road wheels, and modified projectors. Some also feature the upgraded turret ventilation with the new commander’s hatch. However, it is likely that, due to the limited operational value or poor reliability of the TDP smoke generation system, many customers (including these) chose to order these tanks without the system, thereby saving some money. However, most of these tanks still retain the wiring for the rear smoke canister mounts.
Video (Min: 3:51)
Sources
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Skulski, P. (2015). T-34-85 After WW2: Camouflage and Markings 1946 - 2016. Mushroom Model Publications. Available at: Captcha
Zaloga, S., Kinnear, J. (1996). T-34-85 Medium Tank 1944 - 1994. Osprey Publishing. Available at: https://prussia.online/Data/Book/t-/t-34-85-medium-tank-1944-94/Osprey%20NV%20020%20-%20[20c]%20-%20T-34-85%20Medium%20Tank%201944-94.pdf?utm_source
https://en.topwar.ru/22503-opytnyy-tank-t-34-85-obrazca-1960-goda-obekt-135-rossiya.html?utm_source
https://www.safar-publishing.com/post/the-legend-itself-t-34-in-soviet-afghan-war
T-34 in Angola: 1970s / 1980s – wwiiafterwwii
the T-34 in Somalia – wwiiafterwwii
T-34-85/Operation Bureau - NamuWiki
