Ukrainian T‑64 tanks: Legacy powerhouses in modern warfare

The conflict in Ukraine is highly chaotic, and due to both sides using similar equipment, identifying "friend or foe" is extremely challenging. Generally, Ukrainian flags or Z/V signs on vehicles are the only identification markers.

Furthermore, drone operators assist platoon or company commanders by identifying objects and relaying this information to vehicle crews. It's possible that such a scenario occurred when the crew of the Ukrainian T-64 tank realized the approaching vehicle was Russian.

It wasn't an MT-LB but a variant of the BTR-80/82 carrier, as the vehicle appeared too long for an MT-LB and had visible wheels instead of tracks. The Ukrainian T-64 tank fired at it from about 30 metres away, causing the hit BTR to crash into nearby trees. Likely, the entire crew perished, as the 125 mm shell either pierced through or exploded inside if it was a fragmentation shell.

T-64 tanks, which debuted in the 1960s, were notable for their advanced technology and innovation compared to their predecessors. However, their complex design made production and maintenance difficult in the Soviet Union, leading to the creation of the simpler and cheaper T-72 model. Despite this, T-64s were used alongside T-72s in the USSR, though they were never exported.

Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, T-64s became the foundation of Ukraine's armoured forces, and production continued in Kharkiv, where the Malyshev factory was located. Meanwhile, Russia focused on developing the T-72 series tanks.

Over the years, T-64 tanks have undergone numerous modernizations. From the 1980s, when the USSR made updates to BW, to Ukrainian modifications like T-64BM Bulat, T-64BW 2017, T-64BM2 Bulat, and T-64BW 2022, co-produced with Poland and the Czech Republic.

Ukrainian variants of T-64 tanks are equipped with advanced reactive armour known as "Knife." This surpasses Contact-1 and Contact-5 solutions, which use shaped charges instead of conventional explosives. It effectively protects against rounds with a single-shaped charge warhead and even kinetic APFSDS-T penetrators. Hitting the strategic spots on the reactive armour can sever it into pieces.

Since 2017, T-64 tanks have been outfitted with modern fire control systems and thermal cameras, giving a significant edge in combat at night or under adverse weather conditions compared to all T-72 models below the B3 version and T-80 models below the BWM version.

However, it's important to note that this remains a post-Soviet design with an autoloader. The ammunition magazine is situated in the hull and not isolated from the crew. Any penetrating hit can lead to a catastrophic explosion and a spectacular turret detachment.