Ukrainian ingenuity: Hybrid tank from captured Russian parts
Photos of an unusual Ukrainian tank have appeared on social media. It was constructed using components from the T-90M and T-80BWM, which are considered the best Russian tanks used in Ukraine.
The T-90M is a tank valued at approximately £3.7 million. Vladimir Putin has repeatedly referred to this machine as the "best tank in the world." Slightly older, yet equally significant for the units fighting in Ukraine, is the T-80BWM, a modernised version of the T-80BW.
Compared to older Russian and Soviet-era tanks, the T-90M and T-80BWM are distinguished by significantly better armour and much greater offensive capabilities. These improvements stem not only from the 125 mm calibre guns used, capable of accommodating various munitions but also from the presence of advanced fire control systems with thermal imaging.
The unique hybrid tank of Ukrainians
According to commentators on the war in Ukraine, the "Frankenstein" tank shown by Ukrainians in the 12th Special Forces Brigade Azov demonstrates their adaptive capabilities in constructing functional combat vehicles from captured or damaged enemy equipment.
According to the Defence Romania portal, it appears that the turret of this tank is protected by armour elements retained from the Russian T-90M. The hull of the Ukrainian "hybrid" has been reinforced with side panels similar to those from the Russian T-80BW, as well as elements of unidentified origin.
Where did the Ukrainians get the Russian parts?
The Russians are losing a considerable number of tanks in Ukraine, including the most valuable T-90M and T-80BWM models. According to data from the creators of the Oryx blog, which aims to document equipment losses suffered by the parties fighting in Ukraine, the Russians have lost 122 T-90M units and approximately 140 T-80BWM units to date.
This figure includes not only destroyed units but also those damaged and captured by Ukrainians, enabling actions the Russians would prefer not to see. Captured parts and entire Russian tanks can be examined by experts, incorporated into Ukrainian forces, or used as "donors of spare parts." In this instance, the latter scenario somewhat materialised, as acquired components were used to build a new, previously unseen hybrid on the front, referred to as the "Frankenstein tank."
