Iraq has become the first Arab army to independently apply Russia’s wartime experience from Ukraine by fitting its tanks with additional armour.<br /><br />The aim is to improve protection against FPV drones and anti-tank weapons, which are increasingly common on the modern battlefield.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />Source and images: 35th Armoured Brigade of the Iraqi Ground Forces | X @shadowh55543098
