Russia's frontline resorts to Soviet-era armour
For several months, the Russian military have been compelled to fall back on equipment more suited for a museum than the contemporary battleground. On the front lines, BTR-50PU armored personnel carriers are visible, namely machines that were utilized in the military during the 1950s and throughout the Soviet era.
The discussions about Russia's challenges in replacing war-damaged equipment have been ongoing for some time. The Russians delve into their stockpiles for equipment hailing from the end of the Stalin era, a prime example being the tracked vehicle BTR-50. Development of this type of armoured transporter began in 1952, with its mass production following a few years later.
These vehicles are designed on the base of the PT-76 amphibious tank's chassis. The vehicle's armour offers the crew protection against small-calibre ammunition and shrapnel. However, when faced with heavy machine-gun fire, the armour proves to be inadequate.
That said, the aging design does hold certain benefits. It boasts tracks instead of wheels, facilitating easier navigation through muddy landscapes. Furthermore, the BTR-50 is highly conducive to upgrades, enabling it to be deployed to the front in a marginally enhanced version.
Online, regular updates feature BTR-50s either en route to the front lines or already stationed there. Technicznybdg on the X platform shared a photo of a BTR-50PU, noting it as "a command version sans armament, produced since 1959".
Internet commentators on the post unanimously agree that this particular model belongs in a museum, not on the front lines.
Why is Russia turning to old equipment?
For a long time, we've been hearing about the prowess of the Russian military. This perception was bolstered by Russian force's operations in places like Syria. However, military experts note that those were elite units armed with the latest technology. Unfortunately, the reputation of elite forces does not reflect the state of the entire military.
Thus, the sighting of antiquated armored vehicles or old tank models on the front line should not come as a surprise.
