New photos have appeared online showing so-called ersatz BMPTs from Algeria based on the T-62 tank chassis, which local specialists have armed with russian-made Berezhok turrets. Footage of these vehicles was released by the Algerian Ministry of Defense. The photos were later picked up by russian propaganda media, claiming that this is how Algeria decided to cheaply modernize outdated Soviet T-62 tanks.
This sparked comparisons between the vehicle and the Terminator, as well as debates about whether such vehicles are still necessary on today’s battlefield, given the widespread use of FPV drones. It is worth noting that Algeria initially considered purchasing the same vehicles from russia, but ultimately opted for a significantly cheaper option.
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At the same time, it is worth mentioning that Algerian T-62s with the Berezhok turret are not being demonstrated for the first time. These vehicles made their debut at a parade in the summer of 2022. As of today, it is possible to assess the scale of Algeria’s T-62 tank modernization to the so-called BMPT-62 level.
Back in 2022, when these vehicles were first unveiled, around a dozen ersatz BMPTs appeared in the photos.
As of 2024, approximately 13 such vehicles appeared in the images, while the latest photos from the Algerian Ministry of Defense show at least 16 BMPT-62s.
However, the actual number of modernized T-62s with the Berezhok module in the Algerian army remains unknown. It appears Algeria is slowly upgrading its Soviet vehicles, which may number up to 290 units as of today.
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