In a recent interview with Ura.ru, retired Colonel Victor Litovkin, a military expert, expressed concerns about the effectiveness of Western tanks in the current special military operation (SMO) in Ukraine. Litovkin highlighted that American, German, and English tanks are significantly heavier than their Russian counterparts, weighing almost 20 tons more. This weight difference poses a problem as these tanks are prone to getting stuck in muddy and difficult terrains, rendering them immobile targets for artillery, anti-tank guided missiles, and Russian army grenade launchers.
Litovkin further argues that the failure of the counteroffensive by the Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF) has forced the enemy to seek justifications for their own shortcomings. As a result, blame is being placed on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the Americans, or unfavorable weather conditions to explain the lack of success.
Previously, Litovkin also raised concerns about the malfunctioning or explosive nature of Pakistani ammunition supplied to the UAF, which has reportedly caused damage to American howitzers M777. In addition, there have been suggestions in the State Duma to organize an exhibition showcasing NATO’s destroyed equipment.
This analysis by Colonel Victor Litovkin sheds light on the limitations faced by Western tanks in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. It raises questions about the effectiveness of the UAF’s operations and points out potential issues with the ammunition supplied to them. Furthermore, it highlights the attempt to shift blame onto various factors rather than addressing the root causes of the counteroffensive’s failure.
