Russia repurposes vintage tanks for minefield clearance

The T-62 is the first second-generation Soviet main battle tank, developed in the late 1950s. The T-62M is an advanced modification, which has been in service since 1983. Despite their age, these tanks still appear in Ukraine, some in modified forms. One such vehicle has been spotted being used to clear paths through minefields.

The T-62M tanks, which the Russians use for demining operations, gain additional equipment, as can be seen in the photo below. This may include, among other things, mine plows or additional armour reinforcements to enhance crew safety in case of explosions. The purpose of these modified tanks is to pave the way for other units, thereby minimising the risk of potential human or equipment losses.

As previously mentioned, the T-62M tanks are an upgraded version of the basic T-62, which went into production in 1961 in the Soviet Union. The T-62M was enhanced with additional reactive armour to protect against modern anti-tank missiles, significantly boosting its survivability on the battlefield. Modifications also included better fire control systems, allowing for more precise targeting even in challenging conditions.

Although the T-62M is not the newest design, it still plays an important role in many armies, mainly due to its simplicity and reliability. The tank is equipped with a 115mm calibre gun, providing sufficient firepower against older tank models and armoured vehicles. Contemporary modifications have allowed for the integration of modern optoelectronic systems, enabling more effective combat operations. Even though the T-62M may seem outdated on the modern battlefield, its reliability and ease of maintenance make it a valuable asset in many countries.