Abrams Tanks in Ukraine: Enhanced with Unique Modifications for Frontline Strategy
Abrams tanks arrived in Ukraine several months ago but only headed to the front in February 2024. Still, they are machines that are rarely seen in combat. However, a report prepared by the Army TV channel provides more insight into these valuable machines in the conflict.
One of the best tanks in the world. This description of the M1 Abrams tank did not come from anywhere. The vehicle is characterized by significant firepower, guaranteed by the M256 smoothbore cannon with a calibre of 120 mm. Still, in the variant designed for the American market, it is exceptionally durable. This is thanks to armour that uses depleted uranium.
It's no wonder that the Ukrainians have been quite restrained in using Abrams on the front for a long time. It is a precious weapon that must be cared for to prevent destruction. For this reason, the army of defenders previously used the mentioned tanks as reconnaissance units. Equipped with an advanced vision system, the M1 Abrams can detect an opponent from about 8 kilometres away. This is significantly more than Soviet-era designs, which is why American equipment served the Ukrainians as a tool for identifying targets and directing fire at them.
However, the army soon changed tactics, and the Abrams went 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 cautiously, so not much material presenting these constructions appears on social media. However, a report has recently emerged about which Army TV channel is responsible, and the Ukrainian Front profile on the X platform shares it. Its main protagonist is the M1 Abrams, which hides a surprising change inside.
Abrams with a valuable modification for Ukrainians
The modifications of American Abrams tanks intended for Ukraine primarily involve changing armour. The version designed for the US Army has armour made of depleted uranium, while the modernization for the Ukrainian armed forces only has tungsten plates. There is also additional ARAT-1 armour from the TUSK package designed to minimize the effects of hostile fire.
However, as Army TV presented in its report, the changes in Abrams also affected its interior. Although training in operating tanks is conducted in English, and all switches and buttons for controlling the Abrams are described in the same language, the descriptions of these control elements are written in Ukrainian in the tank presented in the material.
What does such a change mean for the soldiers working with the Abrams? It's a simple but significant improvement, allowing the crew – despite knowing English – to react much more efficiently in situations requiring quick decision-making than if every element were described in English.
In the material prepared by Army TV, Ukrainians also praised the American Abrams for its maneuverability. This is thanks to the power unit, which generates power at 1500 HP and accelerates the vehicle to over 70 km/h. Additionally, according to soldiers, the excellent stabilization of the gun deserves attention.
