Home PC Reviews War Thunder – BMPT-72 “Terminator-2” Bundle Review

War Thunder – BMPT-72 “Terminator-2” Bundle Review

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War Thunder - BMPT-72 Terminator-2 Bundle Review
War Thunder - BMPT-72 Terminator-2 Bundle Review

The BMPT-72 “Terminator-2” Bundle represents one of the more distinctive premium offerings available in War Thunder, delivering a vehicle that sits somewhere between a main battle tank and a dedicated fire support platform. Rather than offering raw speed or traditional tank-on-tank dominance, the Terminator-2 is designed around survivability, sustained firepower, and battlefield control. As a premium bundle, it also includes 20 days of Premium Account time and 2,500 Golden Eagles, positioning it as both a gameplay investment and a progression accelerator.

This is not a bundle aimed at casual experimentation. The BMPT-72 is a purpose-built combat vehicle that rewards situational awareness, multi-weapon management, and tactical positioning. For players who enjoy controlling the tempo of engagements and denying enemy movement rather than chasing high-speed flanks, the Terminator-2 offers a uniquely satisfying experience.


Historical Context Meets In-Game Identity

The BMPT-72 “Terminator-2” (Object 183) is based on the proven T-72A/B chassis, repurposed to extend the service life of ageing tanks while adapting them to modern battlefield threats. Introduced in 2013, the real-world vehicle was conceived as a tank support combat vehicle, capable of protecting armoured formations from infantry, light vehicles, helicopters, and anti-tank threats in complex combat environments.

In War Thunder, this identity is faithfully translated. The Terminator-2 is not a frontline breakthrough tank in the traditional sense, but rather a force multiplier. It excels when working alongside main battle tanks, suppressing enemy positions, clearing urban choke points, and punishing overconfident light vehicles that stray into its line of fire.


Firepower: Overwhelming, Flexible, Relentless

The standout feature of the BMPT-72 is its sheer volume of fire. Armed with two 30 mm 2A42 automatic cannons, the vehicle delivers sustained, accurate fire capable of shredding light armour, disabling exposed modules, and suppressing infantry-support vehicles with ease. With a combined total of 850 rounds, the cannons allow for prolonged engagements without the constant need to disengage and rearm.

Complementing the cannons are four 9M120 anti-tank guided missiles, giving the Terminator-2 the ability to engage heavily armoured targets at range. These missiles provide a crucial counterbalance to the vehicle’s lack of a traditional large-calibre tank gun, allowing it to threaten main battle tanks when used carefully and with good positioning.

The inclusion of a 7.62 mm PKT machine gun rounds out the loadout, offering additional utility against soft targets and helping to conserve cannon ammunition in lower-threat situations.

In practice, the BMPT-72 thrives on weapon synergy. Players who alternate intelligently between cannons, missiles, and machine gun will find the vehicle extremely adaptable. Poor weapon discipline, however, can leave you vulnerable during reload windows or expose you to counter-fire from more specialised opponents.


Survivability: Built to Stay in the Fight

One of the Terminator-2’s greatest strengths is its durability. Built on the T-72 chassis and reinforced with additional defensive measures, it boasts armour protection comparable to a main battle tank. While it should not be mistaken for an invulnerable juggernaut, it can absorb punishment that would cripple lighter vehicles instantly.

Survivability is further enhanced by a laser warning receiver, alerting players to enemy targeting, and a smoke screen system that allows for tactical disengagement or repositioning under pressure. These defensive tools are especially valuable at Rank VII, where engagements are often decided in seconds and situational awareness is paramount.

The vehicle’s crew layout and armour geometry mean that it often survives initial hits long enough to respond, retreat, or call for support — a critical advantage in high-tier battles where first contact is rarely decisive.


Optics and Situational Awareness

The BMPT-72 benefits greatly from its modern targeting systems. Both the gunner and commander are equipped with laser rangefinders and thermal imaging sights, allowing effective engagement in poor visibility conditions, night battles, or at extended ranges.

Thermals significantly enhance the vehicle’s role as a battlefield controller. Spotting and suppressing enemy movements becomes easier, especially in urban maps or dense terrain where threats emerge suddenly. This technology ensures the Terminator-2 remains relevant and competitive even in the most technologically advanced matchmaking brackets.


Gameplay Role and Learning Curve

The BMPT-72 is not a vehicle that thrives on solo heroics. Its true potential is unlocked when played deliberately and cooperatively. Supporting allied tanks, holding strategic positions, and denying enemy advances are where it excels.

Newer players may struggle initially with its unconventional playstyle. Unlike main battle tanks, the Terminator-2 relies heavily on positioning, line-of-sight control, and timing missile launches. Overextending or attempting to brawl head-on with top-tier MBTs often results in swift punishment.

However, players willing to invest time into understanding its strengths will find it deeply rewarding. Few vehicles in War Thunder offer such consistent battlefield presence once mastered.


Progression and Premium Value

As a Rank VII premium vehicle, the BMPT-72 offers enhanced Research Point and Silver Lion earnings, making it an effective tool for progressing through the upper tiers of the Soviet ground tech tree. The fact that it comes fully modified eliminates early grind frustrations and allows players to experience its full potential immediately.

The included 20 days of Premium Account time further accelerates progression, while 2,500 Golden Eagles provide flexibility for crew training, additional research boosts, or other in-game purchases.

From a value perspective, the bundle is generous, particularly for players already invested in high-tier ground forces.


Where the Bundle Falls Short

Despite its strengths, the BMPT-72 is not without limitations. Its lack of a traditional main gun means it cannot always dominate armoured duels without careful missile use. Reload times on the ATGMs can leave the vehicle temporarily vulnerable, and its large profile makes it an easy target if poorly positioned.

Additionally, players seeking fast-paced, aggressive flanking gameplay may find the Terminator-2’s deliberate tempo restrictive. This is a vehicle that rewards patience and map knowledge rather than reflex-driven aggression.


Final Verdict

The War Thunder – BMPT-72 “Terminator-2” Bundle is a standout premium offering that delivers a unique, highly specialised combat experience. With overwhelming sustained firepower, excellent survivability, and modern targeting systems, it excels as a support and area-denial platform at the highest tiers of ground combat.

While it demands a thoughtful, disciplined playstyle and may not appeal to every type of player, those who embrace its role will find it both effective and deeply satisfying. Combined with strong premium bonuses, this bundle represents a smart investment for serious War Thunder ground forces players.