Ukrainian forces have captured a peculiar Russian battlefield vehicle, dubbed the “barn” tank, which reveals how Russian troops are adapting to the growing threat of drone attacks. The vehicle, originally a rusted T-62 tank, has been heavily modified with a boxy metal shell, a cage at its rear, and electronic warfare devices.
According to Ukrainian soldiers, the “barn” tank was used to transport food, ammunition, and personnel. Its canopy was designed to protect against drone attacks, particularly from cheaply produced First-Person-View (FPV) drones that are equipped with munitions and piloted remotely. Lieutenant Colonel Serhiy Misiura explained on Ukrainian army television that the vehicle’s primary defense against drones is its electronic warfare capabilities.
🇺🇦 🇷🇺 ❗️ The Ukrainian Armed Forces have captured a Russian “tank barn” for the first time. 👇
The published footage shows the capture of the tank crew, surrounded on all sides by additional protection from drones and with a mine clearing roller in front. pic.twitter.com/BDGzaNlglO
— Non Sibi Sed Aliis (@corRUSpondent) June 17, 2024
Dmytro, a Ukrainian soldier who spoke to Reuters, described the tank’s construction as hasty, with limited protection and significant operational challenges. He noted that getting in and out of the vehicle through its small hatch was difficult, and the stench inside was overwhelming. Despite these drawbacks, Dmytro acknowledged that the added protection could provide a temporary advantage by preventing shells from damaging the tank’s tracks.
The “barn” tank was captured near Klishchiivka, a village close to the heavily contested city of Bakhmut. Aerial drone footage released by the Ukrainian military on June 17 showed the tank being taken in a wooded area along with its Russian crew. Ukrainian forces subsequently planted their flag on the captured vehicle.
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