Russia dispatches upgraded T‑62M tanks to Ukraine amid ongoing conflict
At least 11 T-62M mod. 2022 tanks were spotted at the Kamensk-Uralsky railway station in Russia. The vehicles, noted for their capabilities, are en route to Ukraine.
The Russian forces are continuously sending new machinery to the frontline. Recently, a video surfaced, showcasing the latest Russian Federation military equipment heading towards Ukraine, including the T-90M Proryv. Another video reveals the movement of older vehicles – the upgraded T-62Ms. The footage, shared by @technicznybdg, among others, clarifies that 11 examples of these decades-old machines will soon be deployed at the front.
T-62 Tanks making their way to Ukraine
The tanks seen in the video from Kamensk-Uralsky are T-62Ms, representing a significant modernisation of the classic T-62 model from the 1980s. This upgrade added extra composite armour to the front of the hull and the turret. Additionally, the manufacturer enhanced anti-mine protection as well as added rubber-metal skirts to shield the tank's sides.
The T-62M also aimed to boost mobility, thanks to tracks from the newer T-72 model and a new engine delivering a power output of 620 HP. However, additional armour increased the weight of the T-62M by roughly 4 tons more than its prototype, leading to no major improvement in performance.
In the tank's upgrade, there was also incorporation of a laser rangefinder and an enhanced fire control system capable of launching 115 mm calibre guided missiles 9K116-2 Szeksna.
Despite these upgrades, the T-62M is considered "defenceless against newer models of anti-tank weapons," according to journalist Przemysław Juraszek of Virtual Poland. Older anti-tank systems, such as the Milan 2, or more recent ones like Stugna-P, can effortlessly neutralise the T-62M. Furthermore, the armour of this Russian tank can easily be penetrated by modern tanks supplied to Ukraine from Western countries.
Beyond its armour limitations, the T-62M is not the strongest unit in combat. This is not only due to its outdated armour but also because its defensive capabilities are inferior to newer vehicles at the frontline. The 115 mm calibre cannon is ineffective against the armour of tanks such as the T-72 or T-64, and the absence of modern optoelectronics leaves the T-62Ms vulnerable at night. Nevertheless, each tank, regardless of its strength, holds value for both conflict sides. Hence, it’s likely that the Russians will employ the T-62Ms in secondary roles, such as trench machinery, rather than leading assaults at the frontline.
