Polish PT‑91 Twardy tanks outperform British Challengers in Ukraine
A video of Polish PT-91 Twardy tanks has surfaced online, showing them being operated by Ukrainian soldiers. These machines, renowned for their capabilities, manage tough conditions that even newer and considered superior British vehicles find challenging.
9 May 2024 08:11
In March, a report emerged that British Challenger 2 tanks had encountered problems moving in rugged terrain, with mud posing an almost insurmountable obstacle. "The biggest problem for the Challenger 2 in Ukraine is getting stuck in the mud," British journalists reported after speaking with Ukrainian soldiers.
PT-91 Twardy tanks in Ukraine
Such issues do not arise with the PT-91 Twardy tanks, which Poland gifted to Ukraine. New footage shared on social media shows these tanks navigating areas near the main frontline. Despite the path resembling a mud river rather than a road, the Polish tanks traverse it effortlessly.
The PT-91 Twardy tank, developed in the 1990s, was not a new design but an upgrade of the Russian T-72. Nearly 300 units have been produced and supplied to just three countries. For many years, the primary operators of the PT-91 Twardy were Poland and Malaysia, with Ukraine recently joining this group, receiving dozens of PT-91 Twardys as support from Poland.
The vehicle's weight might be crucial in its ability to conquer challenging terrains. The PT-91 Twardy weighs nearly 46 tonnes, whereas the Challenger 2 (in production since 1993) tips the scale at over 60 tonnes. However, theoretically giving it an advantage, the British tank boasts a significantly more powerful engine (1,200 hp compared to 850 hp in the PT-91 Twardy).
Tanks valued by Ukrainians
This isn't the first instance showcasing the PT-91 Twardy tanks as a vital asset to the Ukrainian forces. Footage of these vehicles in action on the front line and numerous testimonials from soldiers and experts have already surfaced.
Highlighted strengths include durability, owing to the use of ERAWA reactive armour, which consists of cubes filled with steel plates and layers of explosive material. The DRAWA fire control system is also highly esteemed. These features, critical distinctions from the Russian T-72, enhance the PT-91's performance. Its primary weapon is a 125 mm cannon, supplemented by 7.62 mm and 12.7 mm calibre machine guns.
