The Object 279 is an experimental Soviet heavy tank that was developed in 1955 at the request of the Soviet Army. At the time of its creation, it incorporated many new technologies, including a complex-shaped cast hull designed to withstand the shockwave of a nuclear explosion; thin side skirts that added protection and a streamlined form; a new main gun; an autoloader; an engine; a four-track running gear; and an unusual overall layout.

The tank was built in response to a 1955 GBTU competition to replace the T-10 heavy tank. According to the specified technical requirements, two design bureaus, one in Leningrad and one in Chelyabinsk, developed prototypes. One of the three competition entries was the Object 279, developed by SKB-2 of the Kirov Plant in Leningrad under L.S. Troyanov. Completed at the end of 1959, it underwent comparative trials as a single prototype, while construction of the other two tanks was halted. In 1960 Nikita Khrushchev forbade development of any tanks over 37 tons, thus ending Object 279 program in favor of missile tanks.

The Object 279 was added as a reward for completing the “Space Race” 2020 event. This tank boasts excellent protection, a powerful armor-piercing capped shell, an autoloader, and decent mobility. However, it is vulnerable to APFSDS rounds from more modern tanks and is highly conspicuous due to its large size.