Ukraine equipped the T-64E with a powerful double-barrel anti-aircraft gun

For a long time, Ukraine has been trying to improve the performance of the main battle tank (MBT) T-64 to better meet the requirements of the battlefield.
This December will mark the 55th anniversary of the adoption of the first version of the T-64 – known as Object 432. However production began earlier – in 1964. At various times, Various modifications have been made to this particular MBT.

In 1969, the Soviet Army received the T-64A variant with the 125 mm cannon instead of the 115 mm one. From 1976 to 1985, the T-64B was produced in Kharkov with an improved fire control system and the ability to launch a guided missile through the barrel. In principle, the manufacturer has managed to get rid of many previously defined problems. Two years later, the T-64 appeared with a version equipped with explosive reactive armor Kontakt-1. It is these means of fighting that are currently the basis of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Ukrainian T-64E main battle tank carrying 23 mm GSh-23L cannon In 2004, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense adopted the T-64BM “Bulat”, which was developed in the Kharkiv design room for mechanical engineering named after AA Morozov. A total of 85 MBTs were ordered but it turned out to be unsuccessful. Its special edition – the T-64E was created by the Kharkov armored repair plant. Engineers suggest using multi-channel viewfinder with gunner thermal camera and captain’s panoramic viewfinder. Firepower is enhanced by the 23 mm GSh-23L double-barrel air cannon with a ammo base of up to 600 rounds, accompanied by a remote controlled 12.7 mm anti-aircraft machine gun. This weapon can be used by any member of the crew, including the driver. Protection has also been increased thanks to the Nozh explosive reactive armor and a high-speed fire suppression system. Meanwhile, the vehicle’s weight increased to 42,500 kg, the engine capacity also increased to 850 horsepower. Despite the announced new possibilities, the Ukrainian Armed Forces Command is not interested in the amendment. Such tanks would be too complicated and expensive. Also, the repair company itself is not capable of mass-producing them. As a result, only one prototype was born and until recently was rusting in the storage.