Ukrainian forces deploy realistic decoys to confound Russians
The Ukrainian army has started using highly detailed mock-ups of German Leopard 2A6 tanks more extensively. The Defence Romania portal refers to this as a "phantom army of tanks," describing them as a solution that presents significant challenges for the Russians.
This is not the first time Ukrainians have utilized mock-ups of Western weapons. The concept has been around for many months, and reports from the front lines on social media have confirmed through recordings that Russians have been deceived by decoys imitating assets such as self-propelled howitzers, Leopard 2A4 tanks, or anti-aircraft systems.
Realistic Leopard 2A6 tank mock-ups
The latest photographs show mock-ups of German Leopard 2A6 tanks. The Defence Romania portal mentions that these mock-ups display a very realistic and detailed design. Some even include a metal structure with mounted wheels, providing enhanced durability and enabling more convenient positioning in selected areas.
These types of decoys have a specific purpose—to mislead the Russians. By diverting their attention and resources to the decoys, they not only waste ammunition or drones unnecessarily but also overlook the real Ukrainian equipment. This strategy allows the defending army to conserve weapons and protect soldiers' lives. There have been instances where the Russians deployed multiple drones targeting Ukrainian equipment mock-ups, including not just the least expensive FPV drones but also more valuable Zala Lancet ones.
Leopard 2A6 is an important target for the Russians
According to the Defence Romania, these types of decoys also aid in the more effective information warfare conducted by the Ukrainians. They sow confusion among the Russians, mislead them, necessitate more thorough target verification, and can influence their operational decisions.
The preparation of Leopard 2A6 mock-ups is likely intentional. These models are the latest NATO tanks received by Ukraine from Western allies. Destroying each unit is a victory for the Russians both operationally and for propaganda purposes. One of the captured Leopard 2A6 tanks was transported to the Uralvagonzavod factory in Nizhny Tagil last year.
The Leopard 2A6 distinguishes itself from predecessors by having a longer gun (Rheinmetall Rh-120 L/55), better optronics, and the crew's ability to operate in hunter-killer mode. It also features reinforced armour, significantly superior to that in the older Leopard 2A4 or Leopard 1A5 tanks, which are also in the Ukrainian inventory.
