Russia reinforces Ukraine front with updated but criticized T‑62M tanks

Russian forces are deploying upgraded T-62M tanks in Ukraine, according to the Defense Express website. These tanks have been observed in the Kharkiv region and are notably different from other tanks on the front. Russia has introduced a new recognition symbol.

Photos recently shared by Russians on their social media reveal the latest movements of the Russian Federation Army. It has decided to reinforce units fighting in the northern part of the Kharkiv region (close to the Russian city of Belgorod) with the decades-old T-62M tanks, among other equipment.

The photos also showcase Ural trucks and other military hardware. However, one common element on all the vehicles sent for support that stands out is the symbol of a crossed-out diamond, replacing the previously used letter "Z" on Russian equipment.

The T-62M tanks, now marked with new tactical signs, are dated designs with origins in the 1960s. The first version of the T-62 was developed then and has since been modernized repeatedly. One such variant is the 1980s T-62M.

For the T-62M upgrade, efforts were made to enhance crew survivability and adapt the tank to evolving military demands. This added extra composite armour at the front of the hull and turret. In recent decades, specifically in the conflict in Ukraine, Russians have further equipped the T-62M with anti-drone cages and Kontakt-1 reactive armour blocks, as recent photos of tanks deployed in the Kharkiv region attest. According to Defense Express, this signifies Russia's preparation for an imminent offensive.

Among the changes made to the T-62M compared to its predecessor, the basic T-62, was the introduction of new tracks from the T-72 model to improve mobility. Furthermore, a more powerful engine was installed, generating over 600 HP. Despite these improvements, the expected outcomes were not realized since the enhancements in armour led to a substantial weight increase, neutralizing any performance gains of the upgraded version.

The basic armour of the T-62M renders the tank vulnerable to newer types of anti-tank weapons, as journalist Przemysław Juraszek of Virtual Poland pointed out. Consequently, T-62Ms are often dubbed "armoured coffins." From a defensive standpoint, these tanks fall short of contemporary standards. Armed with a 115 mm calibre gun, they struggle against even older models like the T-64 or T-72. A critical disadvantage is the absence of modern optoelectronics, rendering the T-62M virtually "blind" at night, thereby hindering its crew from engaging the enemy under such conditions.