Ukrainian loss in Kursk: Russian drones down NATO's top tank
The Ukrainian offensive in the Kursk region has inflicted substantial losses on the Russians, but the Ukrainians are also experiencing setbacks. One Ukrainian unit lost a Leopard 2A6, the latest NATO tank that Kyiv received as part of Western support. Attention is also drawn to the Russian weaponry in this situation.
According to videos and reports shared on social media, the Ukrainian Leopard 2A6 was destroyed by Russian drones. It is noted that these are drones controlled via fibre optic cables.
Leopard 2A6 attacked by Russian drones
The introduction of this type of technology provides the Russians with tangible benefits, as previously noted by German BILD portal analyst Julian Röpcke. In his opinion, it is precisely thanks to such drones that the Russians are making noticeable advances and regaining their territories in the Kursk region. The range of these drones is estimated at about 8 kilometres. The most crucial fact is that they are not susceptible to enemy electronic warfare systems.
The latest NATO tank in Ukraine
German Leopard tanks are the most represented NATO tanks in Ukraine. However, the 1A5 and 2A4 variants dominate, over which the Leopard 2A6 has many advantages, including much more durable armour. This tank was produced at the beginning of the 21st century with the intention of preparing a response to Russian T-90 family tanks.
The Leopard 2A6 is currently the latest NATO tank in Ukraine and one of the best. In known instances, the Leopard 2A6 protected its crew despite being hit more than ten times by Russian weapons. Additionally, in the latest footage from the Kursk region, three crew members of this tank managed to evacuate.
Data from the creators of the Oryx blog, who monitor and document equipment losses on both sides of the ongoing war, indicate that the Russians have already neutralized several Leopard 2A6 tanks. This is a significant number, considering the Ukrainians received only slightly over 20 units.
