T74
The T-74, or T74, refers to a Soviet main battle tank developed in the 1970s as an evolution of the T-64. The program aimed to improve protection and firepower while preserving the T-64’s mobility. The T-74 typically mounts a 125 mm smoothbore gun, with an autoloader and stabilized fire control system, and uses a diesel powerpack enabling speeds comparable to other contemporary MBTs. Armor protection was enhanced but remained lighter than later designs, with sloped and composite armor in certain variants. The tank retained a compact hull and turret design, intended to simplify manufacturing and maintenance.
Production of the T-74 began in the mid-1970s at plants including the Kharkov-based Malyshev factory, with additional
A number of upgrade programs produced various improved versions, sometimes referred to by different designations in