The U.S. has provided Ukraine with Abrams tanks, specifically the M1A1 model, as part of its military support against Russian forces. Announced in January 2023, each tank costs approximately $10 million. Despite their advanced capabilities, Ukrainian crews have identified several flaws, especially in the armor, which they say is insufficient against modern weapons.
During a visit by CNN journalists to eastern Ukraine, Ukrainian soldiers revealed the tanks’ vulnerabilities. Ukrainian tank operators reported that the armor does not adequately protect against modern threats, particularly drone warfare. One crew member, callsign Joker, stated, “Its armor is not sufficient for this moment. It doesn’t protect the crew.”
🇷🇺🇺🇦⚡ The Russian Armed Forces destroyed an Abrams tank with a high-precision Krasnopol shell. pic.twitter.com/0GsM76tUfj
— War Watch (@WarWatchs) May 4, 2024
The tanks have faced significant challenges due to the pervasive use of drones by Russian forces. These drones have made it difficult for the tanks to operate without being detected and targeted. As a result, the Abrams tanks have been partially withdrawn from frontline positions to prevent further losses.
Despite these setbacks, the Ukrainian military has taken measures to improve the tanks’ defenses. Recent modifications include the addition of Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA) and steel cages around the turrets to counter drone and missile attacks.
US-supplied M1A1 Abrams MBT in Ukrainian service, sporting a significant number of field modifications, including Kontakt-1 ERA bricks and improvised cage armor. pic.twitter.com/gdw5LyGENi
— OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) May 24, 2024
Pentagon officials acknowledged in April that the Abrams tanks were pulled back from the frontlines due to the threat posed by Russian attack drones. However, some tanks remain in action, and Ukrainian crews continue to report difficulties. One Abrams was almost immobile due to an engine problem, and crews have complained about condensation issues affecting the electronics in rainy or foggy conditions.
Where the U.S. Abrams M1A1 is underperforming, the older model Bradley M2A2’s have been lauded for their survivability and rugged performance.
The M2 Bradley, initially designed in the 1970s to counter Soviet-era BMP IFVs, has proven its worth in Ukraine, effectively engaging Russian forces. Ukrainian forces appreciate the Bradley for its survivability, speed, and firepower. For instance, a Ukrainian Bradley driver recounted surviving three anti-tank mines
The Bradley’s combat debut in Ukraine was challenging, with many vehicles lost during the initial summer offensive in 2023. However, the 47th Brigade has since adapted its tactics, enhancing the Bradley’s reputation for reliability and effectiveness against Russian armor. The vehicle’s 25mm chain gun and TOW II anti-tank missiles have been particularly effective in close-quarters combat.
Ukrainian crew about Bradley.
Shortly – it’s a best vehicle and we need much more of them.The Commander’s call sign is “Barbie” and you will see why. pic.twitter.com/5EeNmt4dL0
— 𝔗𝔥𝔢 𝔇𝔢𝔞𝔡 𝔇𝔦𝔰𝔱𝔯𝔦𝔠𝔱 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇺🇲🇬🇷 (@TheDeadDistrict) December 8, 2023
A viral drone video, first published by Ukraine’s 47th Mechanized Infantry Brigade, showcases a US-made M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) engaging a Russian T-90 tank at point-blank range. The footage shows the Bradley firing dozens of 25mm high explosive rounds, effectively destroying the heavily-armored T-90. Despite being less formidable on paper compared to the T-90, the Bradley’s advanced weapons, optics, and cross-country capabilities have made it a favorite among Ukrainian troops.
There are three things you can watch forever. Like this Ukrainian M2 Bradley IFV obliterating a «no-analogue» russian T-90M tank.
📹: 47th Mechanized Brigade pic.twitter.com/4NwvEryE3Y
— Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) January 18, 2024
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