Moscow’s tank shortages could be even worse than some experts previously thought: Cold War stocks of T-72s are likely to run out soon. Therefore, now the Russian army should increasingly resort to obsolete models.
An expert conducting a study based on data from sources that include only visually confirmed vehicle losses thinks there isn’t much left of Russia’s T-72 stockpile. After a count in mid-February, he assumed that Moscow had gone to war with 2,000 of these main battle tanks. A year after the start of the “military operation”, almost 1,200 of them are said to have been captured or destroyed by Ukraine.
Up to three-quarters of all tanks could have been lost
However, since this count only covers tank losses, for which there is also video or photo evidence, the actual loss would be much higher. it is therefore likely that the Russian army lost a total of 1,500 T-72s – three-quarters of all tanks of this type used in the Ukraine conflict.
Even older models are used
As the military expert calculates, the Russians still have 1,500 old T-72s in stock that have been rotting away for decades. “Many of them are probably not in good shape,” the observer noted. It makes sense, then, that the Kremlin would knock out T-62s and T-80s, tanks much older than the T-72. Russia can only produce a handful of new tanks per month – so they are by no means able to make up for monthly losses in the triple-digit range.
“Frankenstein” tanks made from spare parts
The Ukrainian media “Kyiv Post” also reported that Moscow is returning 1960s tanks from its arsenal. In addition, Russian commanders who do not have battle-ready tanks are said to have decided to improvise “Frankenstein” tanks from spare parts to fill the gap in their arsenal. For example, photos appeared on social media showing a troopship MT-LB being fitted with a naval turret – apparently to convert it into an infantry fighting vehicle.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
