I picked up Zvezda's T-90 over the weekend. In looking at pictures of the Indian models, it seems the most significant changes are on the turret (no thermal sights, an extra slab or two of ERA). What else would I need to do to build this as an Indian vehicle?

Thanks.

-David

As I PM'd you:

For the Indian T-90, there are at least 2 types...The T-90S and the T-90M http://defensetech.org/2011/11/29/video-t-90m-tank-vs-land-rover/ (and the Indian specific "T-90M upgrade" set for the real T-90S is not to be confused with the Russian T-90M and T-90(M)....confused yet?) They have several differences from the Russian versions including the French Catherine Thermal sighting system, a Isreali environmental conditioning system, and Kactus K-6 ERA on the T-90M. And there is possibly a new version, the T-90MS...not sure if India has any interest... http://syrianfreepress.wordpress.com/2012/03/31/flying-tank-premiere-russia-unveils-new-t90-ms-in-india/

If this sounds a bit overwhelming...it is. And India is not being very cooperative with lots of information on its T-90's, nor very many pictures.

The biggest changes I can see immediately are the lack of IR and the new Thermal Imager, and adding in the Air conditioner wherever that is. There is also supposed to be a aux generator integrated, so that should have an exhaust as well.

Hi Jacques Any plans for sp designs to produce a Indian T-90 conversion? You forgot to mention that the Shtora Anti Tank devices are ommitted and replaced with Kontakt 5 ERA in there place. Miniarm has plans to produce an Indian T-90 but it has not yet materialized(what are they waiting for). Maybe Verlinden or some other after market producer will make some conversions BMPT or some other version of the T-90?? How about AMMO? 125 mm ammo was produced once by Kirin, it was in the Yugoslav forces. I was surprised that model point didn't make any? Lets hope to see a NEW T-80 Tank It's been a long time since Dragon's kit. Oh well, the Tunguska should be on the way very soon !!!! Can't wait to get my hands on this. Cheers Joe

The Russians have their own air conditioner/AUX unit for the T-90C- the KE2K manufactured by JSC NPO Electromashina:







As you can see they have it mounted on the rear of the turret- I wonder would the Indians have their unit in the same place?

Some articles with bits about the Indian air conditioning/aux power issue:

http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2008-07-06/news/27703603_1_t-90-tanks-systems

http://www.indian-military.org/news-archives/indian-army-news/1832-t-90-tank-technology-transfer-supply-of-assemblies-hit-russian-stonewall.html

As you can see the Indian government floated their RFI back in 08- I've been searching and can't see any info on any contracts that were signed since then regarding the AC/AUX unit. Anyone have anything more on these issues?

An add-on set to turn Zvezda's kit to the Indian version of the T-90 would be most welcome. Although remember that when Meng have released info on their future T-90 release they have talked about the 'T-90 Family'- so perhaps they are planning an Indian version in plastic- I certainly hope they are!