Ukrainian brigade shines light on Abrams tanks' battlefield prowess

Ukrainian soldiers from the 47th Separate Mechanized Brigade are using the M1A1 Abrams tanks they received from the Americans. These tanks have sparked much debate over their effectiveness and utility in Ukraine. A brigade member has come forward to share insights on the advantages and disadvantages of the Abrams by Ukrainians.

The Ukrainian Defense Express reported that the 47th Separate Mechanized Brigade refuted claims that the American M1A1 Abrams tanks had been pulled back from the frontline. The Ukrainians say the tanks perform admirably in combat and won’t conceal from the enemy what makes the Russians take cover. Recently, the Ukrainian military-themed channel Armiya TV aired a segment in which tankers from the 47th Separate Mechanized Brigade weighed in on the shortcomings and benefits of the Abrams.

A Ukrainian named Dmytro highlighted "its [referring to the tank Abrams M1A1] main strengths are its pinpoint accuracy, superior stabilization, and nimbleness despite its hefty weight." He commended the thermal imaging cameras' nighttime operational capability and the depleted uranium anti-tank rounds it fires. He believes the tank excels at neutralizing Russian military hardware and infantry. However, Dmytro pointed out the absence of depleted uranium armour and stressed the importance of enhancing turret protection as a deficiency.

It's important to note that Ukraine received 31 M1A1 Abrams tanks from the United States. The U.S. initially contemplated sending the newer M1A2 Abrams model to be bought anew under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. Instead, it was decided to supply Ukraine with refurbished M1A1 Abrams tanks previously in service with the U.S. military, which shortened delivery times.

The M1A1 Abrams has a 120 mm smoothbore gun and machine guns of 0.50 inch (12.7 mm) and 0.30 inch (7.62 mm). The tank runs on a 1500 HP engine and can reach up to 70 km/h (approximately 43 mph) on paved roads. It weighs about 68 tonnes and ranges around 430 km (about 267 miles).