Ukraine Receives First Batch of US M1 Abrams Tanks to Counter Russian Forces
Kyiv, Ukraine – Ukraine has received its first batch of US-provided M1A1 Abrams tanks, marking a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The tanks, although an older model, have a proven ability to pulverize Soviet-built tanks and offer strong protection and weaponry.
The arrival of the tanks came just in time to aid Kyiv’s counteroffensive, which has been ongoing for four months and is showing promising progress against Russian defenses in the south. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the delivery during a press conference on Monday.
The M1 Abrams tank is considered one of the top tanks Ukraine has received so far in the war, according to two former US Army officers with direct experience on the Abrams. It has a demonstrated track record of defeating Soviet-made armor while protecting its crew of four.
“It can do other things, but it’s built to kill tanks,” said Robert Greenway, an expert from the Hudson Institute who served with the Abrams in the US Army. The tank’s heavy-duty armor and powerful weaponry make it an exceptional asset on the battlefield.
The US delivery consists of two platoons worth of Abrams tanks, with the remaining 31 tanks promised by the Biden administration set to be provided in the coming months. Even this initial delivery of tanks could begin to make a difference in Ukraine’s fight against Russian forces.
The M1A1 Abrams tank saw extensive use in the Gulf War in the early 1990s and proved to be a formidable asset capable of defeating Soviet-era tanks. It is an older version of the tank, with the US Army currently using the M1A2 model, but it remains highly effective against Russian tanks.
Compared to Russian tanks, the M1A1 Abrams is considered superior. Its heavy armor provides increased protection for the crew, and its gas-turbine engine allows for speeds of up to 45 miles per hour. The tank’s main gun can fire accurately while on the move, giving it a tactical advantage.
The Abrams is known for its superior crew survivability, with ammunition stored behind the turret and separated from the crew by blast doors in protected ammo racks. In contrast, Russian-designed tanks store exposed ammunition in the turret, which puts the crew at greater risk.
During the Gulf War, the M1A1 Abrams earned a reputation for both its defensive and offensive capabilities. It proved to be reliable and effective, with only nine tanks lost during the conflict, none as a result of enemy action.
While the Abrams is a powerful main battle tank, it is not without vulnerabilities. It is potentially vulnerable to threats such as anti-tank mines, missiles, artillery, and drones, which have also impacted Ukraine’s new Leopards and Challengers in recent months.
Despite these limitations, the arrival of the M1 Abrams tanks is a significant boost for Ukraine’s military capabilities. It will provide valuable support in countering Russian aggression and help bolster Ukraine’s defense against ongoing attacks. The continued deliveries of Abrams tanks in the coming months will further enhance Ukraine’s military strength.