Ukrainians build ‘Frankenstein’ tank from captured T-90Ms

A newly modified Ukrainian tank, created using components salvaged from destroyed Russian T-90M tanks, has captured attention after images surfaced on social media.

Dubbed a “Frankenstein” tank, the vehicle is a testament to the ingenuity of Ukrainian forces as they repurpose enemy equipment for battlefield use.

The tank, which is under the command of Ukraine’s 12th Azov Special Purpose Brigade, features an amalgamation of parts from various sources. Its turret is protected with dynamic armor salvaged from a Russian T-90M, one of the newest models in Russia’s tank fleet. The gun mantlet also appears to incorporate T-90M components, while the vehicle’s hull has been reinforced with unknown dynamic armor and side screens resembling those on the Russian T-80BVM.

- ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW -

The design highlights the adaptability of Ukrainian forces in creating functional combat vehicles from captured or damaged equipment.

Since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine has reportedly destroyed or captured 122 T-90M tanks—a model that Russian President Vladimir Putin once touted as “the best in the world.”

Readers who wish to follow our weekly coverage can subscribe to the Weekly Defense Roundup.

If you wish to report a grammatical or factual error in this article, please let us know by using the online form.

Executive Editor

Support The Defence Blog

Independent reporting takes resources. Join us on Patreon.

Become a patron

More Like This

French Rafales intercept two Russian Su-30SM fighter jets

French Rafale fighters scrambled from Šiauliai Air Base in Lithuania to intercept two Russian Su-30SM fighters that entered Baltic airspace without a flight plan,...

Ukraine burns two Russian Tu-142 naval patrol planes in Taganrog

Ukrainian strike drones hit two Russian Tu-142 maritime patrol aircraft on the ground at Taganrog military airfield on the night of May 29-30, 2026,...

Russia unveils Arctic truck that climbs walls and crosses rivers

Russia's Uralvagonzavod concern publicly unveiled for the first time a prototype of the DT-3PM light articulated tracked all-terrain vehicle at the Gas. Oil. Technologies exhibition...

Russia resumes Su-57 combat flights along the entire front

Russian Su-57 stealth fighters have resumed high-tempo cruise missile operations along nearly the entire length of the Ukrainian front, with Ukrainian air raid monitoring...

EU prepares sanctions after Russia’s drone hit a NATO building

Romania summoned Russia's ambassador, convened its highest national security body, and received a personal condemnation from the President of the European Commission on Friday...