The Shturm is based on the chassis of the T-72 or T-90 main battle tanks \u2013 two iconic types that dominate the Russian armored fleet. However, the form and function of the new tank are radically different.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
First of all, it is an \u201coptionally-unmanned\u201d system, meaning it can operate either manned or fully remote-controlled, depending on operational needs. This feature is part of a global trend towards automation of warfare, aimed at reducing human casualties and increasing survivability in extreme environments \u2013 such as densely built-up urban areas, where conventional warfare is becoming increasingly dangerous for crews.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Designed for urban warfare<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the Shturm\u2019s most notable features is its shorter 125mm gun. Unlike traditional long-barreled tanks designed for open terrain, the Shturm is built for \u201croom-to-room\u201d \u2013 or more realistically, \u201csquare-to-square\u201d \u2013 combat in large cities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The shorter barrel makes it easier to maneuver through narrow streets and to aim faster at close range. In addition, the tank is equipped with thermobaric weapon launchers, most likely the RPO-A Shmel type, which are particularly effective in confined spaces due to the way they disperse the blast and overheating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The presence of a bulldozer-like clearing blade at the front \u2013 for removing obstacles, mines and explosive devices \u2013 further reinforces the image of a vehicle designed exclusively for \u201cdirty\u201d and complex urban warfare.<\/p>\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Enhanced Armor and Protection<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The Shturm and its accompanying command vehicle feature full armor with explosive reactive armor (ERA) blocks on all sides. This protection is intended to provide resistance to anti-tank missiles, rockets, and improvised explosive devices \u2013 threats that have intensified in the asymmetric warfare of recent decades.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The command vehicle, where the tank\u2019s operators are located when operating as an unmanned vehicle, is also equipped with similar armor and a remotely controlled turret with a 12.7 or 7.62 mm machine gun for self-defense.<\/p>\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Technological breakthrough<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Although the Shturm is not yet ready for mass production \u2013 and may not enter the Russian military\u2019s arsenal for years \u2013 it is an indication of Russia\u2019s plans for future battlefields.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Uralvagonzavod CEO Alexander Potapov said as early as 2018 that the Russian Defense Ministry had requested the development of a tank with optional unmanned capabilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The testing of this system alone suggests that Russia sees future warfare not only through the prism of numerical superiority, but also technological advancement \u2013 with an emphasis now on crew safety, urban suppression and tactical flexibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The context of the war in Ukraine<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The development of the Shturm cannot be separated from the war in Ukraine. The battles in cities like Mariupol, Bakhmut, and most recently Kharkiv have starkly demonstrated the vulnerability of conventional tanks in urban environments, where Ukrainian forces are using anti-tank weapons and guerrilla tactics with impressive effectiveness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Shturm could theoretically give Russia an advantage in such environments if it were perfected and integrated into the battle lines. However, the process of developing and integrating such a system is complex and expensive \u2013 and Russia is already bearing the brunt of a long war.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.liberalglobe.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/image-152.png\")
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