Russian T‑80BW tank dismantles mine - by unintentionally detonating it
The advancement of military technology is rapid. The changes are dynamic and, while some new developments are inspiring, sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective. However, this case proves to be a bit more complicated.
On the battlefield, mines are one of the tanks' worst enemies. A fleeting lapse in attention can lead to the destruction of vehicles worth millions. That's why some tanks are equipped with special tools designed to help neutralise these perilous obstacles.
These tools are often described as anti-mine trawls. This device, with the assistance of a mounted roller or plough, can detect mines, move them aside or trigger them safely. It paves a relatively safe passage, allowing other tanks and accompanying units to follow the cleared path.
Supposed to dismantle mines, it was destroyed by one
In this situation, something went dreadfully wrong. The T-80BW tank, equipped with this mode of gear, was entirely destroyed by a mine. The ground crater is vast, with the tank noticeably submerged. Even if it was still functional, extracting it would likely be virtually impossible.
Internet users have highlighted the rather unusual design of the entire anti-mine equipment. From this view, it looks somewhat makeshift, and the references to the post-apocalyptic film series "Mad Max" and comparisons to matchstick structures seem quite apt.
