Difference between revisions of "T-80U"

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{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=ussr_t_80u
 
|code=ussr_t_80u
−
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|T-80U WebsiteImage 1.jpg|T-80U WebsiteImage 2.jpg}}
+
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}_TVD.jpg|T-80U WebsiteImage 1.jpg|T-80U WebsiteImage 2.jpg}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
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<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.87 "Locked On"]].
 
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.87 "Locked On"]].
 +
 +
The T-80U is an all-round upgrade to the [[T-80B]] and one of the most advanced MBTs fielded by the Soviet Union. With a new turret and Kontakt-5 ERA, it visually distances itself from its T-64 ancestors and boasts hefty protection against both chemical and kinetic rounds. The engine power has been improved by about 14% and the resulting power-to-weight ratio matches contemporary NATO tanks like the [[Leopard 2A4]] and [[IPM1]]. The firepower has also kept up with the times because of its top 3BM46 APFSDS and 9M119 ATGM. The combination of good armour, low profile, high mobility, and a punchy gun make the T-80U a versatile tank that doesn't leave very much to be desired. The post-penetration survivability and reverse speed could still be better, but Soviet tankers will be used to these flaws by now and the latter is still much better than on the T-64s and T-72s.
 +
 +
Fans of the T-80U will be happy with with the succeeding [[T-80BVM]], a upgrade of the [[T-80B]] with even more advanced ERA and ammunition to cap off the T-64/80 tech tree line.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
Line 17: Line 21:
 
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
−
The armour protection of the {{PAGENAME}} is adequate, especially if the incoming round hits one of the CONTACT-5 ERA plates while newer shells such as the DM53 can still frontally penetrate the hull armour at close range. The strongest parts of the tank are the turret front and a majority of the upper front plate. It does, however, have some weaker areas, the most important being the driver's hatch, the immediate areas of the turret surrounding the gun and its breech, and its lower frontal plate. These weak spots are however pretty small targets at range, and thus by hiding them properly, the risk of being hit can be minimized. Owing to its very low profile, a hull-down T-80U is a small target in itself; the weaker parts of its armour are even smaller.
+
The armour protection of the {{PAGENAME}} is adequate, especially if the incoming round hits one of the KONTAKT-5 ERA plates while newer shells such as the DM53 can still frontally penetrate the hull armour at close range. The strongest parts of the tank are the turret front and a majority of the upper front plate. It does, however, have some weaker areas, the most important being the driver's hatch, the immediate areas of the turret surrounding the gun and its breech, and its lower frontal plate. These weak spots are however pretty small targets at range, and thus by hiding them properly, the risk of being hit can be minimized. Owing to its very low profile, a hull-down T-80U is a small target in itself; the weaker parts of its armour are even smaller.
  
−
Fuel tanks on either side of the driver cannot soak up some shrapnel as recent changes have added fuel explosions, and these tanks detonate dramatically. As with all Russian auto-loaded MBTs, there are only three crew members so a well-placed shot is capable of causing a crew knock-out. It's also worth noting that the placement of the ammo rack, below the turret in a carousel-style setup, leaves the T-80U particularly vulnerable to side shots causing ammunition detonation. The protection of the T-80U is very similar to the T-64B in terms of the size and placement of the weak areas. The sides of your tank should always be protected, and when engaging an enemy, your front armour should always be aligned directly towards him to reduce the risks of a shot penetrating your weaker side. The tank does, however, have some CONTACT-5 ERA on its upper front skirts, meaning that you have some extra protection against kinetic penetrators, and a lot against chemical shells, until the ERA bricks are detonated (leaving the area vulnerable for another hit).
+
Fuel tanks on either side of the driver cannot soak up some shrapnel as recent changes have added fuel explosions, and these tanks detonate dramatically. As with all Russian auto-loaded MBTs, there are only three crew members so a well-placed shot is capable of causing a crew knock-out. It's also worth noting that the placement of the ammo rack, below the turret in a carousel-style setup, leaves the T-80U particularly vulnerable to side shots causing ammunition detonation. The protection of the T-80U is very similar to the T-64B in terms of the size and placement of the weak areas. The sides of your tank should always be protected, and when engaging an enemy, your front armour should always be aligned directly towards him to reduce the risks of a shot penetrating your weaker side. The tank does, however, have some KONTAKT-5 ERA on its upper front skirts, meaning that you have some extra protection against kinetic penetrators, and a lot against chemical shells, until the ERA bricks are detonated (leaving the area vulnerable for another hit).
  
 
As mentioned above, the T-80U also benefits from the typical low silhouette Russian tankers will be accustomed to, with the vehicle being significantly smaller than its competitors. This allows the T-80U to be hidden behind small terrain deformities which other MBTs would otherwise be visible. It's also harder for an enemy tank commander to immediately tell which area is the most vulnerable. But armour cannot be relied on in any circumstance, the tank is no longer new, and weaknesses are well known. Most tankers will have a steady aim at hitting weak spots even on the move.
 
As mentioned above, the T-80U also benefits from the typical low silhouette Russian tankers will be accustomed to, with the vehicle being significantly smaller than its competitors. This allows the T-80U to be hidden behind small terrain deformities which other MBTs would otherwise be visible. It's also harder for an enemy tank commander to immediately tell which area is the most vulnerable. But armour cannot be relied on in any circumstance, the tank is no longer new, and weaknesses are well known. Most tankers will have a steady aim at hitting weak spots even on the move.
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{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,937|rbMinHp=1,106}}
 
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,937|rbMinHp=1,106}}
  
−
The mobility of the {{PAGENAME}} is actually much better than that of the [[T-80B]], despite the U model weighing three tons more. This is thanks to the improved engine mounted in the{{PAGENAME}} which has a stock engine power of 1,106 hp, going up to 1,250 hp once the appropriate modules have been researched. It has a maximum speed of 69 km/h (43 mph) forward and -9.7 km/h (-6 mph) in reverse.  The one downside is the traverse in neutral, taking around 19 seconds for a full 360° spin, but this can be greatly reduced if the tank is already in at least in 3rd gear.
+
The mobility of the {{PAGENAME}} is actually much better than that of the [[T-80B]], despite the U model weighing three tons more. This is thanks to the improved engine mounted in the {{PAGENAME}} which has a stock engine power of 1,106 hp, going up to 1,250 hp once the appropriate modules have been researched. It has a maximum speed of 70 km/h (43 mph) forward and -11 km/h (-6.8 mph) in reverse.  The one downside is the traverse in neutral, taking around 19 seconds for a full 360° spin, but this can be greatly reduced if the tank is already in at least in 3rd gear.
  
−
As with most Russian MBTs, the reverse speed (-9.7 km/h (-6 mph)) does leave the tank vulnerable in situations where a fast retreat would be preferable. The commander should always be aware of his immediate surroundings and have a plan to get out of the area in case of a debilitating hit.
+
As with most Russian MBTs, the reverse speed (-11 km/h (-6.8 mph)) does leave the tank vulnerable in situations where a fast retreat would be preferable. The commander should always be aware of his immediate surroundings and have a plan to get out of the area in case of a debilitating hit.
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | [[2A46M-1 (125 mm)|125 mm 2A46M-1]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
+
! colspan="5" | [[2A46M-1 (125 mm)|125 mm 2A46M-1]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || Reloading rate (seconds)
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
 
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
 
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
 
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
−
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
+
!Autoloader
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
−
| rowspan="2" | 45 || rowspan="2" | -5°/+15° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 22.8 || 31.6 || 38.4 || 42.5 || 45.2 || rowspan="2" | 6.50 || rowspan="2" | 6.50 || rowspan="2" | 6.50 || rowspan="2" | 6.50
+
| rowspan="2" | 45 || rowspan="2" | -5°/+15° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 22.8 || 31.6 || 38.4 || 42.5 || 45.2 || rowspan="2" | 6.50  
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
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==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
 
The 3BK18M HEAT shell is the stock ammunition, along the 3OF26 HE shell. The HE can deal overpressure damage even to enemy MBTs if carefully aimed at the turret roof or frontal deck. The researchable 3BM46 APFSDS and 9M119 ATGM prove powerful and can be used against tanks and helicopters alike.
 
The 3BK18M HEAT shell is the stock ammunition, along the 3OF26 HE shell. The HE can deal overpressure damage even to enemy MBTs if carefully aimed at the turret roof or frontal deck. The researchable 3BM46 APFSDS and 9M119 ATGM prove powerful and can be used against tanks and helicopters alike.
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
 
−
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
+
{{:2A46M-1 (125 mm)/Ammunition|3BK18M, 3OF26, 3BM42, 9M119 (T-80), 3BM46}}
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
−
! colspan="6" | Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
 
−
|-
 
−
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
 
−
|-
 
−
| 3BK18M || HEATFS || 550 || 550 || 550 || 550 || 550 || 550
 
−
|-
 
−
| 3OF26 || HE || 42 || 42 || 42 || 42 || 42 || 42
 
−
|-
 
−
| 3BM42 || APFSDS || 457 || 454 || 445 || 431 || 419 || 406
 
−
|-
 
−
| 9M119 || ATGM || 700 || 700 || 700 || 700 || 700 || 700
 
−
|-
 
−
| 3BM46 || APFSDS || 532 || 531 || 526 || 520 || 513 || 507
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
−
! colspan="10" | Shell details
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Velocity<br>(m/s)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Projectile<br>Mass (kg)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay<br>(m)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity<br>(mm)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass<br>(TNT equivalent) (g)
 
−
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
 
−
|-
 
−
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
 
−
|-
 
−
| 3BK18M || HEATFS || 905 || 19 || 0.05 || 0.1 || 2,790 || 65° || 72° || 77°
 
−
|-
 
−
| 3OF26 || HE || 850 || 23 || 0 || 0.1 || 5,240 || 79° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
| 3BM42 || APFSDS || 1,700 || 4.85 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 78° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
| 9M119 || ATGM || 400 || 16.5 || 0.05 || 0.1 || 5,540 || 80° || 82° || 90°
 
−
|-
 
−
| 3BM46 || APFSDS || 1,700 || 4.85 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 78° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
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! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Pintle || 300 (150) || 700 || -5°/+60° || ±180°
+
| Pintle || 500 (100) || 700 || -5°/+60° || ±180°
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
  
−
Learning to use terrain to hide the lower front plate and hull if possible is key to surviving. Like any other tank at the top rank, do not let enemies see your side armour. This is especially true for the T-64/T-80 line since their ammo is stored vertically and makes it very easy to hit. Since the Russian MBTs are relatively small, you can also use teammates as cover.
+
Learning to use terrain to hide the lower front plate and hull if possible is key to surviving. Like any other tank at the top rank, do not let enemies see your side armor. This is especially true for the T-64/T-80 line since their ammo is stored vertically and makes it very easy to hit. Since the Russian MBTs are relatively small, you can also use teammates as cover.
  
 
The {{PAGENAME}} is a fantastic sniper due to the great penetration and thick turret, so that is also a viable option as long as you keep your eyes open on your flanks. The most dangerous enemy to the {{PAGENAME}} are helicopters, although the CONTACT-5 will usually protect against one missile. However, it is still ERA, and will be blown off after it is detonated. Since the interior of the tank is so compact, this makes it easy for good pilots to knock you out in 2-3 rapid missile shots. To avoid helicopters, stay close to buildings or hide next to trees/large bushes and wait for an anti-air vehicle or plane to take it out. Or use the ATGM or range finder to shoot down the enemy yourself.
 
The {{PAGENAME}} is a fantastic sniper due to the great penetration and thick turret, so that is also a viable option as long as you keep your eyes open on your flanks. The most dangerous enemy to the {{PAGENAME}} are helicopters, although the CONTACT-5 will usually protect against one missile. However, it is still ERA, and will be blown off after it is detonated. Since the interior of the tank is so compact, this makes it easy for good pilots to knock you out in 2-3 rapid missile shots. To avoid helicopters, stay close to buildings or hide next to trees/large bushes and wait for an anti-air vehicle or plane to take it out. Or use the ATGM or range finder to shoot down the enemy yourself.
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'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* Effective armour against KE and chemical munitions. The CONTACT-5 ERA mounted to the tank's frontal arc and turret means that even helicopter-launched ATGMs may fail to penetrate
+
* Great armor combined with CONTACT-5 ERA provides solid protection against both KE and Chemical munitions
−
* Varied and powerful ammunition available, from stock HEAT and HE to APFSDS and ATGM.
+
* Various powerful ammunition types available, namely HE, APFSDS and ATGMs
−
* Accurate and high muzzle velocity gun combined with the laser rangefinder provides easy long-range gameplay
+
* Accurate high muzzle velocity gun combined with a laser rangefinder provides great long range capability
−
* Autoloader provider a steady reload time in any situation
+
* Autoloader provides a constant and decently quick reload
−
* Nimble tank for its size and tonnage - a fully upgraded T-80U is much more responsive than the T-80B.
+
* Nimble tank for its size and weight; a fully upgraded T-80U is much more responsive than the T-80B
 
* Low silhouette, a hull-down T-80U is hard to spot and harder to hit
 
* Low silhouette, a hull-down T-80U is hard to spot and harder to hit
 +
* -11 km/h reverse speed is much better than its brother, the T-72
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Rather "easy to hit" weak spots at close medium ranges - some of them leading to turret kill or ammo detonation
+
* Classical Soviet tank weakspots, namely the breach, lower front plate, and the drivers port
−
* Vertical gaps between ERA plates are many small weak spots
+
* Gaps between ERA plates can be weakspots
−
* The cramped interior, with the crew placed tightly together, means that the tank is easily disabled if a shot penetrates
+
* The cramped interior and crew presents low survivability from a penetrating hit
−
* Ammo detonation hazard from side shots due to the vertical ammunition carousel in the centre of the hull
+
* High risk of an ammo rack detonation due to the vertical ammunition carousel in the center of the hull
−
* Spare ammunition is distributed around the hull and turret and increases the chance of ammo detonation
+
* Spare ammunition is distributed around the hull and turret, so it is advised to take no more than 29 shells
−
* Relatively low reverse speed and lack of neutral steering, makes it hard to fall back when flanked or damaged
+
* Still a relatively low reverse speed and lack of neutral steering, making traversing the hull and retreating difficult
−
* Poor gun handling and depression of -5° due to the low turret height, makes it difficult to shoot over hills and other obstacles, especially on rough terrain
+
* Poor gun depression of -5° due to the low silhouette and turret height, makes it difficult to perform well on hilly terrain
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
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In the early 1980s, the first prototypes were being built and after extensive testing and design tweaking, the new tank was considered ready for production. The resultant tank was accepted by the Soviet military under the designation T-80U.
 
In the early 1980s, the first prototypes were being built and after extensive testing and design tweaking, the new tank was considered ready for production. The resultant tank was accepted by the Soviet military under the designation T-80U.
  
−
The T-80U received turret and upper frontal enhancements as part of its new construction along with being equipped with a second generation ERA protection system known as Kontakt-5. In contrast to the previous generation of dynamic protection, Kontakt-5 increased the tank's protection against HEAT ''and'' armour-piercing shells. The modifications also affected the armament of the tank - the T-80U is equipped with a new 1A45 fire control system and Reflex ICBM, which used more advanced 9M119 guided missiles. Subsequently, the tank was equipped with a new, more powerful GTD-1250 gas turbine engine which helped compensate for the increased weight of the vehicle and improved its dynamics.
+
The T-80U received turret and upper frontal enhancements as part of its new construction along with being equipped with a second generation ERA protection system known as Kontakt-5. In contrast to the previous generation of dynamic protection, Kontakt-5 increased the tank's protection against HEAT ''and'' armour-piercing shells. The modifications also affected the armament of the tank - the T-80U is equipped with a new 1A45 fire control system and Reflex ATGM, which used more advanced 9M119 guided missiles. Subsequently, the tank was equipped with a new, more powerful GTD-1250 gas turbine engine which helped compensate for the increased weight of the vehicle and improved its dynamics.
  
 
The T-80U had been factory produced in Leningrad in 1987, but in 1989, its production was moved to Omsk. Work on upgrading the T-80 was carried out in Kharkov, but there, they constructed their own vehicle equipped with a diesel engine, which was designated 'T-80UD'. The latter would evolve into further developed Ukrainian derivatives of the T-80.
 
The T-80U had been factory produced in Leningrad in 1987, but in 1989, its production was moved to Omsk. Work on upgrading the T-80 was carried out in Kharkov, but there, they constructed their own vehicle equipped with a diesel engine, which was designated 'T-80UD'. The latter would evolve into further developed Ukrainian derivatives of the T-80.
Line 261: Line 223:
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
+
<!-- ''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 +
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
 +
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
  
−
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
+
* ␙T-80U - <small>([[wt:en/news/6286-esport-war-thunder-youtube-cup-results-en|YouTube Cup 2019]] prize)</small>
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
 
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
Line 273: Line 236:
 
* [[wt:en/news/6051-development-t-80u-making-contact-en|[Devblog] T-80U: Making Contact]]
 
* [[wt:en/news/6051-development-t-80u-making-contact-en|[Devblog] T-80U: Making Contact]]
  
 +
{{TankManufacturer Kirov}}
 
{{USSR medium tanks}}
 
{{USSR medium tanks}}
 
[[Category:ATGM vehicles]]
 
[[Category:ATGM vehicles]]

Latest revision as of 01:52, 26 September 2024

RANK 5 FRANCE
Somua SM PACK
This page is about the Soviet medium tank T-80U. For other versions, see T-80 (Family).
T-80U
ussr_t_80u.png
GarageImage T-80U.jpg
GarageImage T-80U TVD.jpg
T-80U WebsiteImage 1.jpg
T-80U WebsiteImage 2.jpg
T-80U
USSR flag.png USSR
VII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
11.7 11.7 11.7
Class:
Research:350 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:950 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The T-80U is a rank VII Soviet medium tank with a battle rating of 11.7 (AB/RB/SB). It was introduced in Update 1.87 "Locked On".

The T-80U is an all-round upgrade to the T-80B and one of the most advanced MBTs fielded by the Soviet Union. With a new turret and Kontakt-5 ERA, it visually distances itself from its T-64 ancestors and boasts hefty protection against both chemical and kinetic rounds. The engine power has been improved by about 14% and the resulting power-to-weight ratio matches contemporary NATO tanks like the Leopard 2A4 and IPM1. The firepower has also kept up with the times because of its top 3BM46 APFSDS and 9M119 ATGM. The combination of good armour, low profile, high mobility, and a punchy gun make the T-80U a versatile tank that doesn't leave very much to be desired. The post-penetration survivability and reverse speed could still be better, but Soviet tankers will be used to these flaws by now and the latter is still much better than on the T-64s and T-72s.

Fans of the T-80U will be happy with with the succeeding T-80BVM, a upgrade of the T-80B with even more advanced ERA and ammunition to cap off the T-64/80 tech tree line.

General info

Survivability and armour

ERA
Effective action against the cumulative ammunition
Composite armour
Balanced protection against all types of ammunition
Smoke grenades
Creation of a smoke screen in front of the vehicle
ESS
Creation of a smoke screen in the direction of movement of the vehicle
Self-entrenching equipment
Creation of ramparts and trenches in soft ground
Armourfront / side / back
Hull105 / 80 / 50
Turret180 / 160 / 65
Crew3 people
Visibility79 %

The armour protection of the T-80U is adequate, especially if the incoming round hits one of the KONTAKT-5 ERA plates while newer shells such as the DM53 can still frontally penetrate the hull armour at close range. The strongest parts of the tank are the turret front and a majority of the upper front plate. It does, however, have some weaker areas, the most important being the driver's hatch, the immediate areas of the turret surrounding the gun and its breech, and its lower frontal plate. These weak spots are however pretty small targets at range, and thus by hiding them properly, the risk of being hit can be minimized. Owing to its very low profile, a hull-down T-80U is a small target in itself; the weaker parts of its armour are even smaller.

Fuel tanks on either side of the driver cannot soak up some shrapnel as recent changes have added fuel explosions, and these tanks detonate dramatically. As with all Russian auto-loaded MBTs, there are only three crew members so a well-placed shot is capable of causing a crew knock-out. It's also worth noting that the placement of the ammo rack, below the turret in a carousel-style setup, leaves the T-80U particularly vulnerable to side shots causing ammunition detonation. The protection of the T-80U is very similar to the T-64B in terms of the size and placement of the weak areas. The sides of your tank should always be protected, and when engaging an enemy, your front armour should always be aligned directly towards him to reduce the risks of a shot penetrating your weaker side. The tank does, however, have some KONTAKT-5 ERA on its upper front skirts, meaning that you have some extra protection against kinetic penetrators, and a lot against chemical shells, until the ERA bricks are detonated (leaving the area vulnerable for another hit).

As mentioned above, the T-80U also benefits from the typical low silhouette Russian tankers will be accustomed to, with the vehicle being significantly smaller than its competitors. This allows the T-80U to be hidden behind small terrain deformities which other MBTs would otherwise be visible. It's also harder for an enemy tank commander to immediately tell which area is the most vulnerable. But armour cannot be relied on in any circumstance, the tank is no longer new, and weaknesses are well known. Most tankers will have a steady aim at hitting weak spots even on the move.

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB78 / 13 km/h
RB and SB70 / 11 km/h
Number of gears9 forward
1 back
Weight46.0 t
Engine power
AB2 385 hp
RB and SB1 250 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB51.8 hp/t
RB and SB27.2 hp/t
Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 78 13 46 1,937 2,385 42.11 51.85
Realistic 70 11 1,106 1,250 24.04 27.17

The mobility of the T-80U is actually much better than that of the T-80B, despite the U model weighing three tons more. This is thanks to the improved engine mounted in the T-80U which has a stock engine power of 1,106 hp, going up to 1,250 hp once the appropriate modules have been researched. It has a maximum speed of 70 km/h (43 mph) forward and -11 km/h (-6.8 mph) in reverse. The one downside is the traverse in neutral, taking around 19 seconds for a full 360° spin, but this can be greatly reduced if the tank is already in at least in 3rd gear.

As with most Russian MBTs, the reverse speed (-11 km/h (-6.8 mph)) does leave the tank vulnerable in situations where a fast retreat would be preferable. The commander should always be aware of his immediate surroundings and have a plan to get out of the area in case of a debilitating hit.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB4 179 → 6 841 Sl icon.png
RB4 084 → 6 685 Sl icon.png
SB5 166 → 8 456 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications281 900 Rp icon.png
463 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost3 000 Ge icon.png
Crew training270 000 Sl icon.png
Experts950 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 200 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 210 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
150 / 190 / 210 % Sl icon.png
244 / 244 / 244 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
320 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
19 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
29 000 Sl icon.png
500 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
3 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
320 Ge icon.png
Mods dozer blade.png
Dozer Blade
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
320 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
3 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement ussr.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
19 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
29 000 Sl icon.png
500 Ge icon.png
Mods engine smoke screen system.png
ESS
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png
Mods thermal sight.png
NVD upgrade
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
320 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
125mm_ussr_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
320 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods tank laser rangefinder.png
Laser rangefinder
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
19 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
29 000 Sl icon.png
500 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
125mm_ussr_ATGM_ammo_pack
Research:
19 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
29 000 Sl icon.png
500 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
125mm_ussr_3BM42_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png

The T-80U has two night vision modifications. The first modification "NVD" grants access to an image intensifier for each crew member. The second modification "NVD Upgrade" replaces the gunner's image intensifier with a thermal imager.

Armaments

Laser rangefinder
Reduces the error and increases the maximum measurable distance of the rangefinder
Thermal imager
Allows to see thermal radiation in the infrared range day and night

Main armament

125 mm 2A46M-1 cannon
Two-plane stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in two planes while moving
Autoloader
Automatically feeds projectiles into the breech. The speed does not depend on the skills of the loader
Ammunition45 rounds
First-order28 rounds
Reload6.5 s
Vertical guidance-5° / 15°
T-80U No.864 engaged in combat in Vietnam
Main article: 2A46M-1 (125 mm)

The T-80U is armed with the same 125 mm cannon found in the T-80B, with its 3BM46 "Svinets" round proving adequately competitive against other Rank VII offerings (The 3BM42 round has lost quite a bit of its luster however, and struggles with some of the more heavily armoured opponents at range, and lacks reliable post pen effect). As with previous vehicles of the family, the main gun is auto-loaded, so the loss of a crew member or an engine fire does not affect the loading times and the 6.5-second loading speed is competitive when compared to the 120 mm guns on the Leopard 2A5 and M1A1 Abrams. One notable perk of the auto-loader mechanism is that the gun will be reloaded even if the gunner is knocked out, if you're fighting a fire, or repairing. It does however also come with the drawbacks of a reload time that cannot be improved, the large ammo carousel concentric with the turret, and the chance of a single penetrating shot detonating the ammo racks. Another thing to note, since update 1.97 if the tanks battery runs out of power, the autoloader will not function and the cannon will need to be manually loaded, which is a much slower process.

Like with the T-80B and T-64B, the T-80U can launch missiles out of its gun. Unlike the previous two vehicles though, it gets the upgraded 9M119 which has 700 mm of penetration compared to the previous ATGM's 650 mm penetration. These ATGMs can prove useful for shooting over hills to hit a hiding enemy or to engage helicopters or low-flying aircraft.

125 mm 2A46M-1 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Autoloader
Arcade 45 -5°/+15° ±180° Two-plane 22.8 31.6 38.4 42.5 45.2 6.50
Realistic 14.3 16.8 20.4 22.6 24.0

Ammunition

The 3BK18M HEAT shell is the stock ammunition, along the 3OF26 HE shell. The HE can deal overpressure damage even to enemy MBTs if carefully aimed at the turret roof or frontal deck. The researchable 3BM46 APFSDS and 9M119 ATGM prove powerful and can be used against tanks and helicopters alike.

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
3BK18M HEATFS 550 550 550 550 550 550
3OF26 HE 42 42 42 42 42 42
3BM42 APFSDS 457 454 445 431 419 406
9M119 ATGM 700 700 700 700 700 700
3BM46 APFSDS 532 531 526 520 513 507
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (kg) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
3BK18M HEATFS 905 19 0.05 0.1 2.79 65° 72° 77°
3OF26 HE 850 23 0.3 0.1 5.24 79° 80° 81°
3BM42 APFSDS 1,700 4.85 - - - 78° 80° 81°
3BM46 APFSDS 1,700 4.85 - - - 78° 80° 81°
Missile details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Range
(m) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (kg) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
9M119 ATGM 445 5,000 16.5 0.05 0.1 5.72 80° 82° 90°

Ammo racks

Full
ammo 		Ammo
part 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		5th
rack empty 		6th
rack empty 		7th
rack empty 		8th
rack empty 		9th
rack empty 		10th
rack empty* 		Visual
discrepancy
45 Projectiles
Propellants 		45 (+0)
45 (+0) 		44 (+1)
44 (+1) 		43 (+2)
43 (+2) 		38 (+7)
41 (+4) 		37 (+8)
39 (+6) 		34 (+11)
38 (+7) 		31 (+14)
37 (+8) 		30 (+15)
30 (+15) 		29 (+16)
29 (+16) 		1 (+44)
1 (+44) 		No
Ammo racks of the T-80U.

The T-80U main ammo rack consists of a mechanized carousel at the bottom of the turret which carries 28 propellants and projectiles.

Notes:

  • The T-80U uses two-piece ammunition, composed of projectiles (yellow) and propellant bags (orange). Both have separate racks.
  • Projectiles and propellants are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
  • The 10th Rack is the carousel at the bottom of the turret; it serves as First-Stage ammo stowage.

Optics and night vision

T-80U Optics
Type of optic Magnification Night Vision Devices
Image Intensifier Thermal Imager
Resolution 		Notes
Resolution Light Mult Noise Level
Gunner's Sight X2.7 - X12 1600 x 1200 9.0 High 500 x 300 Thermal imager unlocked by "NVD Upgrade" mod (tier 4), replaces image intensifier.
Commander's View X6 1600 x 1200 9.0 High Not Fitted Image intensifier unlocked by "NVD" mod (tier 3)
Driver's View X1 1600 x 1200 5.0 High Not Fitted Image intensifier unlocked by "NVD" mod (tier 3)
T-80U IR Searchlight
Max Range Beam Width Location / Notes
1,400 m 8.2° Searchlight mounted on turret front, just right of the gun. Light moves up and down with main gun.

Machine guns

12.7 mm NSVT machine gun
Ammunition500 rounds
Belt capacity100 rounds
Reload5.0 s
Fire rate700 shots/min
Vertical guidance-5° / 60°
7.62 mm PKT machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition1 250 rounds
Belt capacity250 rounds
Reload8.0 s
Fire rate700 shots/min
Main articles: NSVT (12.7 mm), PKT (7.62 mm)
12.7 mm NSVT
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Pintle 500 (100) 700 -5°/+60° ±180°
7.62 mm PKT
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 1,250 (250) 700 N/A N/A

Usage in battles

Learning to use terrain to hide the lower front plate and hull if possible is key to surviving. Like any other tank at the top rank, do not let enemies see your side armor. This is especially true for the T-64/T-80 line since their ammo is stored vertically and makes it very easy to hit. Since the Russian MBTs are relatively small, you can also use teammates as cover.

The T-80U is a fantastic sniper due to the great penetration and thick turret, so that is also a viable option as long as you keep your eyes open on your flanks. The most dangerous enemy to the T-80U are helicopters, although the CONTACT-5 will usually protect against one missile. However, it is still ERA, and will be blown off after it is detonated. Since the interior of the tank is so compact, this makes it easy for good pilots to knock you out in 2-3 rapid missile shots. To avoid helicopters, stay close to buildings or hide next to trees/large bushes and wait for an anti-air vehicle or plane to take it out. Or use the ATGM or range finder to shoot down the enemy yourself.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Great armor combined with CONTACT-5 ERA provides solid protection against both KE and Chemical munitions
  • Various powerful ammunition types available, namely HE, APFSDS and ATGMs
  • Accurate high muzzle velocity gun combined with a laser rangefinder provides great long range capability
  • Autoloader provides a constant and decently quick reload
  • Nimble tank for its size and weight; a fully upgraded T-80U is much more responsive than the T-80B
  • Low silhouette, a hull-down T-80U is hard to spot and harder to hit
  • -11 km/h reverse speed is much better than its brother, the T-72

Cons:

  • Classical Soviet tank weakspots, namely the breach, lower front plate, and the drivers port
  • Gaps between ERA plates can be weakspots
  • The cramped interior and crew presents low survivability from a penetrating hit
  • High risk of an ammo rack detonation due to the vertical ammunition carousel in the center of the hull
  • Spare ammunition is distributed around the hull and turret, so it is advised to take no more than 29 shells
  • Still a relatively low reverse speed and lack of neutral steering, making traversing the hull and retreating difficult
  • Poor gun depression of -5° due to the low silhouette and turret height, makes it difficult to perform well on hilly terrain

History

Work on improving the existing T-80 MBT begun as early as the mid-1970s with the design bureau in Leningrad. Here, developers were responsible for the production of the T-80 and started working on a joint project to further enhance the T-80's capabilities.

In the early 1980s, the first prototypes were being built and after extensive testing and design tweaking, the new tank was considered ready for production. The resultant tank was accepted by the Soviet military under the designation T-80U.

The T-80U received turret and upper frontal enhancements as part of its new construction along with being equipped with a second generation ERA protection system known as Kontakt-5. In contrast to the previous generation of dynamic protection, Kontakt-5 increased the tank's protection against HEAT and armour-piercing shells. The modifications also affected the armament of the tank - the T-80U is equipped with a new 1A45 fire control system and Reflex ATGM, which used more advanced 9M119 guided missiles. Subsequently, the tank was equipped with a new, more powerful GTD-1250 gas turbine engine which helped compensate for the increased weight of the vehicle and improved its dynamics.

The T-80U had been factory produced in Leningrad in 1987, but in 1989, its production was moved to Omsk. Work on upgrading the T-80 was carried out in Kharkov, but there, they constructed their own vehicle equipped with a diesel engine, which was designated 'T-80UD'. The latter would evolve into further developed Ukrainian derivatives of the T-80.

T-80Us served with the Soviet military until the collapse of the Soviet Union in the late 1980s and have since continued serving with the Union's successor states to this day. The vehicle also saw service abroad with some other countries as well, primarily with South Korea and Cyprus. Overall, around 700 T-80Us have been produced since 1985, but this vehicle has yet to be put into any actual combat situations.

- From Devblog

Media

Skins
Videos
The Shooting Range #139 - Metal Beasts section at 00:35 discusses the T-80U.
Top 7 off-road beasts discusses the T-80U at 2:04 - War Thunder Official Channel

See also

External links


Leningrad Kirov Plant (Ленинградский Кировский Завод)
Medium Tanks 
T-28  T-28 (1938) · T-28 · T-28E
T-80  T-80B · T-80U · T-80UK · T-80BVM
Heavy Tanks 
KV-1  KV-1 (L-11) · KV-1 (ZiS-5) · KV-1E · KV-1S
KV-2  KV-2 (1939) · KV-2 (1940) · KV-2 (ZiS-6)
Other  SMK · KV-220 · IS-7 · Object 279
Captured 
KV  ▀KV-IB · ▀KW I C 756 (r) · ▀KW II 754 (r)
Other  T-28 (Sweden)
Export  T-80U (Sweden)
See Also  Chelyabinsk Tractor Plant

USSR medium tanks
T-28  T-28 (1938) · T-28 · T-28E
T-34-76  T-34 (Prototype) · T-34 (1940) · T-34 (1941) · T-34 (1st Gv.T.Br.) · T-34 (1942) · T-34E STZ · T-34E
T-34-57  T-34-57 · T-34-57 (1943)
T-34-85  T-34-85 (D-5T) · T-34-85 · T-34-85E
T-34-100  T-34-100
T-44  T-44 · T-44-100 · T-44-122
T-54  T-54 (1947) · T-54 (1949) · T-54 (1951)
T-55  TO-55 · T-55A · T-55AM-1 · T-55AMD-1
T-62  T-62 · T-62M-1
T-64  Object 435 · T-64A (1971) · T-64B
T-72  T-72A · T-72AV (TURMS-T) · T-72B · T-72B (1989) · T-72B3 · T-72M2 Moderna
T-80  T-80B · T-80U · T-80UD · T-80UK · T-80UM2 · Т-80U-Е1 · T-80BVM · Object 292
T-90  Т-90А · T-90M
Trophies/Lend-Lease 
Germany  ▂T-III · ▂T-V
Great Britain  ▂МК-IX "Valentine"
USA  ▂M3 Medium · ▂M4A2

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