Russia tests Shturm robotic tanks and Arena-M protection systems

During the Tsentr-2026 strategic exercises at the Chebarkul training ground in the Chelyabinsk region, Russia demonstrated several new unmanned and defensive military technologies.

The Shturm heavy robotic combat system, developed by Uralvagonzavod, was showcased using unmanned T-72B3M tank chassis. The system includes a version with a shortened 125mm gun designed for urban combat, equipped with bulldozer blades and additional armor. During the demonstrations, the Shturm unit experienced technical difficulties, repeatedly losing radio communication and eventually becoming stuck in mud, requiring a crew member to take manual control.

Additionally, Russia tested the Arena-M active protection system integrated into T-90M main battle tanks. The system, developed by the Kolomna-based KBM design bureau, is a hard-kill mechanism designed to physically destroy incoming threats such as anti-tank missiles and drones. The tests included simulated attacks from fixed-wing UAVs and FPV drones to evaluate the system's ability to intercept threats before they strike the vehicle's main armor.