Impact of US Tanks on Ukrainian Soldiers in the Midst of Conflict

Ukrainian crews working on US-supplied Abrams tanks have expressed concerns about the weaknesses and flaws of the armored vehicles. This raises doubts about their effectiveness on the constantly changing ****frontlines of the war. The donation of these tanks was announced by US President Joe Biden as a symbol of the United States' unwavering commitment to Ukraine.

CNN journalists were the first to witness the presence of M1 Abrams tanks in Ukraine. These tanks were spotted in the eastern part of the country, with approximately six vehicles hidden among the foliage.

Crews who received training in Germany expressed concerns about the lack of sufficient armor on the US military's main battle tank, which is valued at $10 million and used in Iraq against Saddam Hussein's forces and insurgents.

One crew member, known by the callsign Joker, mentioned that the tank's armor does not provide adequate protection for the crew. He highlighted the evolving nature of modern warfare, emphasizing the prevalence of drone attacks. As a result, when the tank is deployed, there is a constant risk of being targeted.

His colleague, Dnipro, added they are the “number one target.”

“Without defense, the crew doesn’t survive at the battlefield,” he said.

CNN

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The crew demonstrated their efforts to attach active armor to a damaged tank for CNN. They utilized plates of plastic explosive that detonate upon impact by a round, providing a protective counter-blast.

All 31 Abrams tanks deployed to Ukraine are currently active near the frontline in the east, as confirmed by officials from the 47th Mechanised Brigade who received them. The Ukrainian request for Abrams, which are complex and heavy tanks, sparked a significant debate in early 2023 due to the American vehicle's intricate supply chain. Some versions of the Abrams even run on jet fuel.

Pentagon officials mentioned in April that some Abrams tanks were moved away from the frontline because of the threat posed by Russian attack drones. However, the 47th stated that a few tanks were still in operation, despite facing some issues.

The Ukrainian frontline is now heavily influenced by the use of self-destructing attack drones, small yet precise devices that can overwhelm infantry and even cause damage to tanks. These First-Person Vision (FPV) drones, operated by soldiers wearing gaming goggles, have altered the dynamics of the war by restricting movement and exposing armored vehicles to new vulnerabilities.

The Ukrainian crew has faced the limitations of the Abrams tanks in tough battles around Avdiivka, which Russia seized in February. During one battle, a driver lost a leg when the armor was pierced. Besides facing challenges in innovation, the tanks also seem to be plagued by technical issues.

During CNN's visit, one of the tanks parked under a tree was almost immobilized due to an engine problem, as reported by the crew. Despite being newly shipped in from Poland, the vehicle encountered difficulties. Additionally, the crew highlighted how condensation in rain or fog can damage the electronics inside the tank.

CNN has reached out to the Pentagon for comment.

Ukrainian troops repair an American-supplied Abrams tank.

Ukrainian troops repair an American-supplied Abrams tank.

Mick Krever/CNN

Ammunition is a concern on the Ukrainian frontline, just like in other areas. There seems to be a problem with having the right type of ammunition for the current battle situation.

Joker explained, "We have more ammunition for direct tank-to-tank combat, which doesn't happen often. We mostly work as artillery, needing to take down trees or buildings. There was a time when we fired 17 rounds at a house, but it was still standing."

The tank's performance has been criticized by Russian analysts, who have mockingly referred to them as "empty tin cans." One of the models was seized by Russian forces, damaged, and displayed in a parade at Red Square.

NATO “would never” use the Abrams tank the way the Ukrainian military has to use it, a Ukrainian soldier who uses the moniker “Joker” said.

NATO “would never” use the Abrams tank the way the Ukrainian military has to use it, a Ukrainian soldier who uses the moniker “Joker” said.

Mick Krever/CNN

The Ukrainian crew was frustrated that the tanks were designed for a NATO-style of warfare. This strategy involves air power and artillery preparing the battlefield before tanks and infantry move forward. Kyiv has often complained about its lack of artillery and air support.

Joker expressed doubt that NATO soldiers would undertake the same advances without air support. He imitated a NATO soldier in English, saying, "'Call the aviation, call the artillery.'" He pointed out that Ukraine only has tanks and no aviation or artillery, which he identified as a major problem.

A spokesperson from the Ukrainian defense ministry informed CNN that they are currently testing and enhancing equipment that was not originally intended for their conflict.

The spokesperson also mentioned that they are reaching out to all countries for support in providing equipment with various technical capabilities, which they are utilizing effectively.

Biden decided to provide Abrams tanks after European allies promised to send their own battle tanks in early 2023, before Ukraine's failed summer counteroffensive last year, a move that was considered impossible months earlier.

Kyiv's allies have gradually crossed the lines of what equipment they previously refused to supply. F-16s could be on their way to Ukraine soon. Ukraine's military commander, Oleksandr Syrsky, recently signed paperwork to allow France to send military trainers to address a pressing manpower issue on the ****frontlines. While France's defense ministry did not confirm the plan, they mentioned that it had been discussed for some time. This potential action would signify a significant increase in the West's involvement in the war, which is now in its third year.

The Ukrainian defense ministry later tried to lower expectations, mentioning to CNN that they have begun the necessary paperwork for when a decision is made.

For the Abrams crew, every delay in equipment or support means the loss of their comrades. Joker expressed frustration with the slow and partial US assistance, questioning why the process is taking so long and emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

Editor's P/S:

The article highlights the concerns raised by Ukrainian crews operating US-supplied Abrams tanks. Despite their symbolic significance and the unwavering support they represent, these tanks seem to fall short in meeting the demands of the evolving Ukrainian frontline. The lack of sufficient armor, technical issues, and the mismatch with the NATO-style warfare strategy create vulnerabilities that put the crews at risk. One crew member, known as Joker, aptly points out the absence of air and artillery support, leaving them severely disadvantaged. Frustration and skepticism linger among the troops, who question the delays in providing the necessary equipment and support.

The article also touches upon the shifting dynamics of modern warfare, where self-destructing attack drones pose a significant threat to armored vehicles. These drones, operated by soldiers with gaming goggles, expose new vulnerabilities and limit movement on the frontline. The Ukrainian defense ministry acknowledges this and is actively seeking equipment with various technical capabilities to adapt to the changing nature of the conflict. However, the urgency of the situation cannot be overstated, as delays in assistance have dire consequences for the troops on the ground. The article underscores the vital need for ongoing support and a thorough reassessment of the equipment provided to ensure its effectiveness in the unique challenges faced by the Ukrainian military.