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 line production and licensing in allied states. It entered service with the Soviet Army and several Warsaw Pact nations, and it was exported to a handful of client states. The T-74 saw service through the late Cold War period and into the 1990s in some forces, though many were later superseded by the T-72 and T-80 series.

A number of upgrade programs produced various improved versions, sometimes referred to by different designations in different countries; details vary by source. The T-74 is frequently discussed in conjunction with other members of the T-64/72 family, and it is distinct from the later T-80 and T-90 generations.

See also: T-64 family, T-72, T-80, T-90.