This was accepted for service in June 1979 and is a further development of the T-72, with the optical range-finder replaced by the TPD-K1 laser range-finder sight for improved first round hit probability, TPN-3-49 gunner's night sight, TPN-3 searchlight, side skirts, 125 mm 2A46 gun (earlier versions had 2A26M), Type 902B smoke grenade launcher system, napalm protection system, turn signals, TVNE-4B driver night observation device, upgraded suspension for improved cross-country mobility and installation of a V-46-6 diesel engine. It also has different plastic side skirts covering the upper part of the suspension and separate panels protecting the sides of the fuel and stowage panniers. Three evenly spaced ribs are on the upper glacis plate. This version also had a significant increase in armour protection, especially over the frontal arc of the turret.