The United States is reportedly planning to send tanks to Ukraine without some of their advanced equipment, as certain components are considered too sensitive and sophisticated to be handed over to the Ukrainian military, according to several Western news media outlets. The US-made Abrams tanks, which were promised to Kiev, might arrive in Ukraine with downgraded equipment to ensure they can be used by the Ukrainian forces.
Newsweek reported on Monday that the tanks might “lose some of their most sophisticated electronics before seeing combat in Ukraine.” The US tanks are considered more complicated platforms compared to other Western heavy armor, and operating them would require additional training. Marina Miron, a post-doctoral researcher in the Department of War Studies at King’s College London, explained that a simpler variant is better suited for Ukraine given the time constraints.
The tanks that Kiev is set to receive are the older M1A1 Abrams tanks, which have less advanced electronics than the M1A2. While the M1A2’s electronics offer some advantages to the gunner and the commander, Miron pointed out that these tanks are more difficult to maintain and operate on the battlefield. She stated that the M1A1 is a better choice for Ukraine.
Last week, Politico reported that the US might supply the first six to eight tanks out of a battalion promised by the White House in September. The report also mentioned that “the older vehicles are being stripped of their most sensitive technology, including in some cases secret depleted uranium armor, before they can be sent to Ukraine.” Originally, the Pentagon planned to send the more modern M1A2 variants to Ukraine but changed their plans and opted for the older M1A1 tanks.
Furthermore, earlier media reports indicated that the list of sensitive technologies that Ukraine will not be allowed to receive also includes the tanks’ fire control systems. It is believed that the US fears these systems might be captured by Russia.
Notably, Washington has already supplied around half of the 190 promised Bradley infantry fighting vehicles (IFV) to Kiev. Unfortunately, many of these IFVs have been destroyed or captured by Russian forces during a largely unsuccessful Ukrainian counteroffensive launched in early June. Ukrainian troops have reportedly cannibalized the damaged American IFVs for parts.
The decision to send tanks with downgraded equipment reflects the sensitivity surrounding the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. By limiting the technology and equipment provided to Ukraine, the United States aims to minimize the risk of advanced weaponry falling into Russian hands. However, it also raises questions about the effectiveness of Ukraine’s military capabilities in their fight against Russian forces.
As the situation in Ukraine continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how the arrival of tanks with stripped-down equipment will impact the ongoing conflict. The US’s decision to provide Ukraine with these tanks demonstrates its support for the Ukrainian government and its efforts to defend its sovereignty. Nonetheless, it is clear that the conflict between Ukraine and Russia remains complex and challenging, requiring careful consideration of the balance between providing military assistance and mitigating potential risks.
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