According to many analysts, the new T-14 Armata is the most advanced tank Russia has ever produced. It is a match for the best Western tanks, and it costs much more than them. The cost per one tank is around 400 million rubles, which is approximately $6.7 million.
Before the new T-14 Armata, the Leopard I, a German tank, was widely regarded as the premier battle tank in the world. Now, the Armata might be the better one. As a result, Germany has begun to upgrade the Leopard 2, and work on another new design.
The only thing preventing Russia from making many T-14 Armata tanks is the price. For comparison, the Armata is the 60-70% more expensive than the French Leclers and the US M-1 Abrams. Russia planned to build 40 tanks in 2017, 70 such tanks in 2017, and up to 120 per year after that. By 2020, the Armata fleet should reach 330 by 2020.
Development of the Armata began in 2011, and it is understandable that the tank is one of the most advanced. The new generation tank has a clean sheet design with many advanced features. The focus is put on heavier armor, crew survivability and much more.
A crew of 3 people operates the main battle tank. The crew includes a commander, a driver, and a gunner. It is in line with Russian concept and strategy, as most tanks are operated by a smaller crew in order to reduce dimensions and weight, all while improving protection. Western tanks, for example, feature a crew of 4.
