In a recent interview on Sputnik radio, US Armed Forces veteran Stanislav Krapivnik discussed the challenges faced by the Ukrainian army with the delivery of American-made Abrams tanks. It was expected that Ukraine would receive 30 Abrams M1A1 tanks from the United States, but so far, only ten tanks have arrived.
Krapivnik pointed out that even if the Abrams tanks were considered super tanks, having only 10 or 20 units would not make a significant difference on the battlefield. He highlighted the issue of the tanks’ narrow tracks, which would prevent them from operating effectively in muddy conditions. According to the veteran, as soon as heavy rains hit Ukraine, these tanks would become immobile and get stuck in the mud.
The repair and maintenance of these specific machines are also a major concern. Krapivnik explained that the tanks have gas turbine engines that cannot be repaired under makeshift conditions. The expertise of aviation mechanics, specialized tools, and facilities are required to disassemble, clean, and reassemble the engine. Without these resources, the tanks’ operability would be severely impacted.
Furthermore, Krapivnik highlighted the fuel consumption of the Abrams tanks, comparing it to an American at a Swedish buffet. Each tank carries two thousand liters of fuel and would need to be refueled two to three times during combat operations, resulting in a daily consumption of four to six thousand liters per tank. He emphasized that targeting the tanks’ fuel tanks would be the most vulnerable point to attack in combat.
On October 2nd, it was reported that a shipment of Abrams tanks was being unloaded at the port of Klaipeda in Lithuania. Prior to this, Poland had already delivered the first repaired Leopard 2 tank to Ukraine.
This situation raises concerns about the effectiveness and practicality of relying on the Abrams tanks in Ukraine’s military operations. With limited numbers, vulnerability to adverse weather conditions, and the need for specialized maintenance, the Ukrainian army may face significant challenges in utilizing these American tanks effectively on the battlefield.
