Russian Terminator Tank image - M.P

During the Soviet-Afghan War in the 1980s and the First Chechen War in the mid 1990s, Russian forces suffered terrible losses at the hands of a technologically inferior foe who attacked armoured columns from elevated positions. In an attempt to remedy this problem, anti-aircraft guns and IFVs, whose autocannons could aim to a higher elevation, were used for short range fire support, although their weak armour would still prove inadequate during up-close encounters. Thus, military engineers combined the manoeuvrability and responsiveness of an autocannon with the armoured protection of a tank chassis, producing the BMPT heavy fire support vehicle whose latest iteration has been recently acquired by the Russian Airborne Troops. The Terminator 4 offers enhanced 360 degree protection against cannon fire and infantry anti-tank weapons for its crew of three. Its armament consists of an intimidating twin 57mm autocannon, capable of destroying enemy personnel, lightly armoured vehicles and even flying targets in rapid succession. Heavier targets, such as tanks and buildings, can be engaged at a longer distance using the latest version of the Ataka guided missile. Although few in number due to its high production and supply cost, the Terminator 4 has proven its effectiveness in Russian service against GLA insurgents in Africa and has since also been purchased by Russian clients such as Egypt, Serbia and India.