The M-84 is a Yugoslavian-built main battle tank (MBT) developed in the early 1980s, based on the Soviet T-72 tank design. It was produced by the Yugoslav defense industry and has since been used by various countries that emerged after the breakup of Yugoslavia. The M-84 is known for being relatively lightweight compared to other MBTs, with good firepower and mobility.

Key Features of the M-84:
Armament:

The main gun is a 125mm smoothbore cannon, similar to the T-72’s, capable of firing armor-piercing, high-explosive, and anti-tank guided missiles.
Secondary armament includes a 7.62mm coaxial machine gun and a 12.7mm anti-aircraft machine gun mounted on the turret.
Armor:

The M-84 has composite armor, including layers of steel, plastic, and ceramic materials for improved protection against anti-tank missiles and projectiles.
Some variants are equipped with reactive armor to provide additional defense against modern anti-tank munitions.
Mobility:

Powered by a V-46-6 12-cylinder diesel engine, generating about 780 hp, the M-84 can reach a top speed of around 65 km/h (40 mph) on roads.
Its power-to-weight ratio allows for good off-road mobility and agility, especially useful in varied terrains.
The tank has a range of up to 500 km (310 miles) with additional fuel drums, giving it a good operational range without frequent refueling.
Fire Control and Targeting:

The M-84 is equipped with a laser rangefinder and a modernized fire control system for its time, allowing for accurate targeting at various ranges.
It features night vision and an infrared searchlight to enhance combat capability in low-light conditions.
Variants:

M-84A: An improved version with upgraded armor and engine.
M-84AB: Export variant sold to countries like Kuwait.
M-84AS: Serbian modernized version with better armor protection, advanced fire control systems, and new optics.
Combat History:

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The M-84 saw extensive use during the Yugoslav Wars in the 1990s, particularly in Bosnia, Croatia, and Serbia.
It also participated in the Gulf War, used by Kuwait after acquiring M-84s from Yugoslavia before Iraq’s invasion in 1990.
Users:

Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia, Montenegro, and North Macedonia are some of the current operators of the M-84 tank.
Kuwait remains a non-Balkan operator, having purchased M-84ABs prior to the Gulf War.
Upgrades and Modernization:
Many M-84s have undergone modernization programs to extend their service life and enhance their combat capability, such as improved armor packages, new communication systems, and more advanced electronics. Serbia, in particular, has worked on variants like the M-84AS that incorporate modern technology to compete with other contemporary MBTs.

Comparison with the T-72:
While the M-84 shares its foundation with the Soviet T-72, it features several indigenous improvements, particularly in fire control systems and armor. The M-84 is often considered comparable but with some performance enhancements over the original T-72.

Overall, the M-84 is a capable and cost-effective MBT, making it a valuable asset for the countries that operate it. Its legacy continues as it remains in active service with various upgrades for modern combat challenges.

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