Ukraine's challenge: Striking old Russian tanks remains elusive
For decades, a large number of post-Soviet tanks have been stationed under the open sky at several bases across Russia. However, the Ukrainians are not targeting them. What is the reason for this? A special analysis was conducted by the Covert Cabal channel on YouTube.
Most of the post-Soviet military equipment, including tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, and artillery systems, is located at bases across Russia. However, there has never been an attempt to attack such locations. An analysis on this topic was conducted by an OSINT analyst (from open-source intelligence—gathering information from publicly available sources—editor's note) running the popular Covert Cabal channel on YouTube.
Distance and range limitations
As Covert Cabal points out, one of the main problems for the Ukrainians is the distance that separates Russian bases from the borders with Ukraine. Most of them are located beyond the Urals, making them inaccessible to Ukrainian weapons.
Western allies, such as the USA, have provided Ukraine with ATACMS missiles with a range of up to 305 kilometres, and the United Kingdom and France have provided Storm Shadow/SCALP-EG missiles with a range of up to 500 kilometres.
Alternative methods of attack
Theoretically, Ukraine could use long-range drones, which have been effective in attacks on Russian refineries. However, as Covert Cabal points out, the bases with tanks are more challenging to destroy, and drones are too valuable to risk losing in such operations. In such cases, a mass drone attack would be necessary, which is too costly for Ukraine.
The technical condition of Russian equipment
Additionally, many of the Russian tanks require repairs before being sent to the front. Old tanks stationed under open skies are in poor technical condition, making them less valuable targets. Therefore, Ukraine focuses on more strategic facilities, such as refineries.
