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Russia Upgrades Tank Defense System to Counter Javelin Strikes, But New Test Raises Questions
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![Vlad Litnarovych]( "Vlad Litnarovych")
Russian engineers have modified the “Arena-M” active protection system (APS) to intercept top-attack anti-tank missiles like the US-made Javelin, Ukrainian military outlet Militarny reported on March 31.
A video released by Russia’s state arms exporter Rosoboronexport claims to show the system successfully neutralizing threats, including a projectile attacking from above—a key feature of modern Western anti-tank missiles.
The footage features a split-screen comparison: one clip shows the system intercepting a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) traveling parallel to the ground, while the second shows an unspecified missile striking from above. In both cases, the threats were destroyed mid-air before reaching the tank.
This marks the first recorded demonstration of “Arena-M” engaging top-down threats, suggesting it may offer protection against weapons like Javelin, Spike, and NLAW.
However, analysts noted that the missile in the test approached the tank at a relatively shallow angle. Javelins fired at long range strike their target in a steep dive, while those launched at closer range descend at a more direct angle. This raises questions about whether “Arena-M” can reliably intercept third-generation anti-tank guided missiles in real combat.
The system operates by detecting and destroying incoming projectiles before they reach the tank. It consists of radar antennas that continuously scan for fast-moving objects, a network of launchers with counter-munitions, and an onboard computer that calculates interception points.
Previous versions of “Arena-M” featured upgraded counter-munitions capable of adjusting their trajectory mid-flight, improving coverage around the vehicle. The same technology may now be used to expand its interception angles against top-down threats.
For Ukrainian forces, this development is significant, as the first Russian T-72B3 tank equipped with “Arena-M” was recently spotted on the front lines.
Additionally, Russian engineers have successfully integrated the system into T-90M tanks, which are being delivered in increasing numbers to Russia’s invasion forces in Ukraine, with one being recently destroyed with Ukrainian FPV drones.
Earlier, reports emerged that based on satellite images of storage bases and repair factories, researchers concluded that the pace of Russian tank restoration has slowed by 3.5 to 4 times compared to 2022, making it insufficient to replace battlefield losses.
Researchers from the Resurgam platform and the Military Herald reported that by February 2025, 2,069 tanks were removed from open-type storage bases, and another 2,000 tanks from closed storage hangars.
Between 2022 and 2025, over 4,000 tanks in the best condition were decommissioned, accounting for 54% of all vehicles that could be restored. However, from February 2024 to February 2025, only 342 tanks were decommissioned, showing a sharp slowdown.
