Iraq has become the first Arab army to independently apply Russia’s wartime experience from Ukraine by fitting its tanks with additional armour.
The aim is to improve protection against FPV drones and anti-tank weapons, which are increasingly common on the modern battlefield.
According to recent reports, Iraqi T-90S/IQ tanks have been fitted with cope cages — metal structures mounted on top of the turret, similar to those used by Russian forces. These grids are designed to lessen the impact of kamikaze drones, top-attack explosives, and guided munitions.
In addition to the overhead protection, the vehicles have also been reinforced with 4S24 soft-case reactive side armour (ERA), enhancing their survivability against armour-piercing rounds and anti-tank missiles.
The upgrades were carried out by the 5th Tank Battalion of the 35th Armoured Brigade, which already operates T-90S/IQ tanks in active service. Recent images show the vehicles fully equipped, with reactive side armour and cage-style structures to counter the growing drone threat.
Military analysts believe these modifications could prove decisive in future combat scenarios, marking an important step in adapting Iraq’s armed forces to the new realities of modern warfare.
Source and images: 35th Armoured Brigade of the Iraqi Ground Forces | X @shadowh55543098
