Ukraine's Abrams Tanks Enhanced for Frontline Efficiency
Abrams tanks arrived in Ukraine several months ago but only headed to the front in February 2024. Still, they are rarely seen in combat. However, a report by the Army TV channel offers more insight into these valuable machines in the conflict.
One of the best tanks in the world. This description of the M1 Abrams tank is well-founded. The vehicle boasts significant firepower, courtesy of its M256 smoothbore cannon with a calibre of 120mm, and, in the variant designed for the American market, it has exceptional durability thanks to armour incorporating depleted uranium.
It's no wonder Ukrainians were restrained in using Abrams on the front for a long time. It is a precious weapon that needs careful handling to avoid destruction. For this reason, the army of defenders previously deployed the mentioned tanks as reconnaissance units. Equipped with an advanced vision system, the M1 Abrams can detect an opponent from a distance of about 8 kilometres. This significantly outperforms Soviet-era designs, allowing American equipment to serve the Ukrainians as a tool for identifying targets and directing fire at them.
However, the army soon changed tactics, sending the Abrams to the front. The first effects appeared just a few days later - the Russians began stubbornly hunting for US weapons, resulting in the current losses of Abrams estimated at six units. Therefore, Ukrainians use the M1 Abrams tanks very cautiously, so not much material about these machines is presented on social media. However, a report has recently emerged, for which the Army TV channel is responsible, shared by the Ukrainian Front profile on the X platform. Its main protagonist is the M1 Abrams, which conceals a surprising change inside.
Abrams with a valuable modification for Ukrainians
The modifications of American Abrams tanks intended for Ukraine primarily involve changed armour. The version designed for the US Army includes armour made of depleted uranium, whereas the modernization for the Ukrainian armed forces features tungsten plates. There is also additional ARAT-1 armour from the TUSK package designed to minimize the impacts of hostile fire.
Moreover, as Army TV revealed in its report, the changes in the Abrams also affected its interior. Although training in operating tanks is conducted in English, and all the switches and buttons for controlling the Abrams are labelled in the same language, the descriptions of these control elements for the tank featured in the material are written in Ukrainian.
Such a change is simple but crucial for the soldiers operating the Abrams. Even though they may know English, swiftly understanding and acting in their native language in high-pressure situations enhances their responsiveness and efficiency.
In the material prepared by Army TV, Ukrainians also commended the American Abrams for its manoeuvrability. Thanks to its power unit, which generates 1500 horsepower, the vehicle can accelerate to over 69 km/h. Moreover, according to the soldiers, the gun's exceptional stabilization deserves recognition.
