The upgraded tank is heavier that its predecessor by 1.5 tonnes and weighs 48 tonnes. The new machine is equipped with the V-92S2 engine that enjoys higher capacity and endurance.
For the first time, the upgraded T-90S is equipped with a steering wheel and an automatic transmission that can be switched over to a manual gearbox that lowers the workload for the driver and the fuel consumption as well as increases the armoured vehicles's acceleration characteristics. The tank develops a speed of at least 60 km/h on the motorway. Night vision equipment combined with optical devices such as television and thermal imaging system, and a rearview camera, increase the tank's mobility and manoeuvring capability.
Two of three crew members, a commander and gunner, can be seated in the gun turret. The turret is equipped with a highly automated arms control system to outperform some of the world's best machines in firing range, round preparation time, night target detection, and identification range. Plasma devices and panoramic sight ensure all-round vision for the commander while the gunner has the same opportunity with the all-round video monitoring system. The commander can strike critical manpower and calculate the anti-armour systems from a remote stabilised machine-gun system in a stand-by or driving mode regardless of the main armament and time of the day.
The tank is equipped with the 2A46M-5 cannon, 125mm calibre, with advanced precision. Its total ammunition load allows at least 40 shots while the ready-to-go load is 22 shots. The cannon has a chrome-plated barrel with a 70% increased endurance and guarantees a steady initial speed and a higher shot density.
The anti-conventional weapon system has also been upgraded. Now it is a combined armour protection with an upgraded active armour of the frontal view, armour protection with an active armour and grid shields of the broadside views and splinter-proof screens on the internal surfaces, control unit and armament compartment. There is also an electromagnetic protection system.
The special equipment includes the internal and external communications control system, digital communications channel, satellite-based and inertial navigation system, VHF communicator with two independent radio channels (two VHF in one machine) as well as an additional power supply system.
An air-conditioning system maintains comfortable conditions in the fighting cab and the control unit.