Expert defends Russian Turtle Tank: More than meets the eye

The Russian turtle tank has sparked many discussions and laughter among internet users in recent weeks, but according to Rob Lee, a member of the American Foreign Policy Research Institute, this unusual vehicle might not be as absurd as it appears.

Rob Lee's insights, shared in American Business Insider, focus on this unique machine first seen on the Ukrainian front in mid-April. The Turtle Tank, derided for its adaptation involving additional metal plates, has been the subject of much ridicule on social media.

– "I know people are laughing at this, but I don't think it is a crazy adaptation," says Lee. He believes the Russian effort to modify their tank isn't as ludicrous as many suggest.

For him, it shows the enemy's forces tailoring their machinery to meet the specific challenges of warfare. – "The Russians are adapting to the particular conditions" of the battlefield, which includes a high presence of drones and a scarcity of anti-tank guided missiles, mines, and artillery, notes Rob Lee.

This modification, which significantly increases the size of the tank, is seen as a strategic move. – "So sacrificing observation and the ability to rotate the turret on one tank per platoon that can jam many FPVs frequencies at once makes sense", according to Lee. He stresses that despite its unconventional appearance, the Turtle Tank is a valuable asset on the front lines, aiding allied forces.

The Russian Turtle Tank's durability, which has yet to be destroyed by Ukrainian forces, suggests the effectiveness of its shielded design. Furthermore, this distinctive vehicle garners attention for its protective armour and the concealed electronic warfare equipment on its "shell." This gear aims to neutralize Ukrainian kamikaze drones by interfering with their control signals.

Despite its expanded size, which poses a challenge by making it more visible, the combat turtle is a significant tool on the battlefield, playing a crucial part in neutralizing aerial threats. The tank's heightened profile is a drawback as it increases detectability, yet Ukrainian forces have still not managed to launch a successful strike against this innovative Russian armament.