Can a Carl Gustaf Recoilless Rifle Penetrate a T-90 Tank?

The Carl Gustaf recoilless rifle has been a subject of intense discussion in the context of modern conflicts, particularly in the ongoing battle for territory. While the T-90 tank is considered the most advanced in the Russian inventory, can the Carl Gustaf effectively penetrate its armor? This article delves into this question and provides insights into the capabilities and limitations of both the weapon and the tank.

Modern Conflicts and Anti-Tank Tactics

Given the increasing intensity of the conflict and the commitment of Russian forces, the use of advanced anti-tank (AT) weapons like the Carl Gustaf becomes highly relevant. As mentioned, the Russian side has suffered significant losses, leading them to explore various options to counter the advancements on the battlefield. While simpler anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) have been widely used, the Carl Gustaf's unique characteristics make it a fascinating subject for discussion.

Carl Gustaf is a 84mm lightweight recoilless rifle widely used by various military forces around the world. This weapon is known for its versatility, with a range that can be extended to over 3 kilometers with an air burst projectile. While it can be effective against a wide range of targets, the question remains whether it can penetrate the armor of a T-90 tank.

Protection of Modern Tanks

The T-90 tank is equipped with advanced protection systems, including Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA) and composite armor. Modern ERA can render the sides of a T-90 almost immune to 84mm warheads, as these advanced systems are designed to neutralize kinetic and shaped charge attacks. However, certain areas like the roof, rear, and parts of the hull on the sides remain vulnerable.

It is crucial to note that the majority of T-90 tanks currently in the field do not have the most advanced ERA. Consequently, most of the tank’s surface, except the frontal arc, is susceptible to penetration from the Carl Gustaf's 84mm warhead.

Limitations of the Carl Gustaf

Agency in choosing the appropriate anti-tank weapon is critical, and purchasing the Carl Gustaf in isolation is not a prudent decision. A dedicated 105mm anti-tank weapon, such as a 105mm caliber ATGM, is much more effective. The limitations of the Carl Gustaf were evident in the past when the warhead design, explosive geometry, liner materials, were maximized in the 1990s. Since then, the only way to enhance penetration has been to increase the volume and diameter of the warhead.

The current state of anti-tank technology indicates that advancements are needed to improve the effectiveness of the Carl Gustaf against modern armor constructions. While it can still be a valuable tool in certain scenarios, especially in urban or high density environments where range is not a key factor, a dedicated 105mm system would provide a more comprehensive solution.

Conclusion

In the dynamic and evolving battlefield, choosing the right anti-tank weapon is critical. The Carl Gustaf, while a versatile and effective general-purpose weapon, may not be sufficient to penetrate the armor of a T-90 tank in all scenarios. Advanced ERA and other state-of-the-art tank protection systems significantly reduce the Carl Gustaf's effectiveness against the T-90. For a more robust solution, investing in a dedicated 105mm caliber anti-tank weapon is advisable to ensure the desired penetration capabilities.

Keywords

Carl Gustaf T-90 tank Anti-Tank weapons