TR-85M1 Bizonul

   The TR-85M1 main battle tank, also known as Bizonul, is the latest upgrade of the TR-85 with many improvements. In turn the TR-85 is similar to Soviet T-55, but has some minor changes. Romanian Army operates over 300 of upgraded TR-85M1 main battle tanks.

   The TR-85M1 features improved armor protection comparing with it's predecessor. It has a bigger turret with additional passive armor over frontal arc. The tank is equipped with laser warning receivers, NBC protection system and automatic fire suppression system.

   The TR-85M1 has the same armament as it's predecessor. It is armed with a 100-mm rifled gun. This gun is loaded manually. Ammunition is stored in the turret bustle, fitted with blow-out panels. Despite that this gun fires newly-designed APFSDS round, it is inferior to modern 120-mm and 125-mm tank guns. Latest MBTs are a hard nut for the TR-85M1 to defeat.

   Secondary armament consists of coaxial 7.62-mm machine gun and 12.7-mm machine gun, mounted on the turret roof.

   The TR-85M1 is fitted with new fire control system.

   Vehicle has a crew of four, including commander, gunner, loader and driver.

   The TR-85M1 is powered by a new German diesel engine, developing 860 horsepower. It also has new hydropneumatic suspension. Weight of the upgraded MBT increased to 50 tons, however there was only slight increase in engine power. It's power-to-weight ration of 17hp/t in comparison with modern main battle tanks is weak.