Russia deploys upgraded T‑62M tanks in Ukraine with new symbol

Russian forces are deploying upgraded T-62M tanks in Ukraine – reports the Defense Express website. The machines were observed in the Kharkiv region and noticeably differed from other tanks at the front. The Russians have introduced a new recognition symbol.

Recently, photos released by Russians on their social media have emerged. They reveal the recent deployments of the Russian Federation Army, which decided to reinforce units battling in the northern part of the Kharkiv region (near the Russian Belgorod) with, among other assets, the decades-old T-62M tanks.

The photos also showcase Ural trucks and additional military gear. However, one aspect that stands out on each vehicle sent for reinforcement is the symbol of a crossed-out diamond, which replaces the "Z" symbol previously painted on Russian equipment.

The T-62M tanks, now marked with new tactical signs, are based on designs from the 1960s. The first model of the T-62 emerged during this era, undergoing numerous upgrades over the years. The 1980s introduced a variant known as the T-62M.

The enhanced T-62M model includes upgrades to increase crew survival and adapt to the evolving nature of military conflict. Notable upgrades include additional composite armour at the front of the hull and turret. Recently, in the theatre of war in Ukraine, the Russians have started equipping T-62M tanks with anti-drone cages and Kontakt-1 reactive armour blocks, as observed in recent photographs of tanks deployed to the Kharkiv region. According to Defense Express, these moves indicate Russia's preparation for an anticipated offensive.

Among the changes to the T-62M relative to the original T-62, the Russians have incorporated new tracks from the T-72 model to enhance mobility. A more powerful engine has been installed, producing over 600 HP. Despite these enhancements, the T-62M's armour thickness increase has significantly added to its weight, resulting in negligible performance improvements.

The T-62 M's inherent armour renders it defenceless against modern anti-tank weaponry. Consequently, T-62Ms are often labelled as “armoured coffins.” In terms of defensive capability, these tanks fall short of contemporary standards. Armed with a 115 mm calibre gun, they struggle against even older models like the T-64 or T-72. Furthermore, the absence of modern optoelectronics severely hampers the T-62M's operational effectiveness at night, leaving the crew virtually "blind" and unable to engage the enemy under such conditions.