War in Ukraine - Too fat to fight
Since 2023, the Ukraine has received western main battle tanks (MBT) such as Leopard 2 (Germany), Abrams (USA), and Challenger 2 (UK). MBT models include Leopard 2, Leopard 1, M1 Abrams, and Challenger 2.
In battles, the strengths of western weapons were evident, but they failed to meet the expectations in offensive operations. This was due to the wrong deployment concept, lack of air support, and small numbers. Additionally, these NATO tanks were originally designed for a different type of war.
Too Heavy for Ukraine
"They are simply too heavy for Ukraine," says Dr. Jack Watling, a tank expert from the Royal United Services Institute for Defence and Security Studies (Rusi), referring to the British "Sun." This opinion is shared by other experts. These tanks were built to defend Western Germany in the 1980s against a massive Soviet attack. A country with dry firm terrain and a dense road network, specifically designed for heavy tanks at critical points. One can still see "forest roads" in large format in the Harz and northern German lowlands. Another often-forgotten factor is that the war in Ukraine and the survival time of a tank there is much longer than anticipated during the predicted "Clash of the Titans" between NATO and the Warsaw Pact.
Built for Another War
The vision of a massive tank battle had far-reaching consequences for tank design. NATO tanks were not developed for offensive operations over hundreds of kilometers, as was known from the offensives of World War II. They were primarily designed for defensive purposes. They were supposed to act as "tank destroyers" and destroy as many Russian tanks as possible before being knocked out themselves. Such a loss seemed inevitable. Tanks like the Leopard 2 were supposed to face hundreds, if not thousands, of T-72s. This scenario influenced every detail. The main weapon could fire from an improvised, fortified position. Great importance was placed on all-around vision and a reverse gear, allowing for maneuverability without exposing the vulnerable rear to the enemy.
These characteristics still benefit the Leopard 2 today. However, one disadvantage: The armor was emphasized, and tanks became heavier. In a retreating defensive battle, extensive maneuvering was not planned.
While the crew today benefits from many protective features such as blowouts, armored ammunition compartments, and the high precision of the cannon and target acquisition, the high weight has become a problem. All three western tanks weigh around 70 tons. To survive in Ukraine, the tanks were further equipped. With cages against drones, reactive armor, etc. Measures that further increase the weight. If an active protection system were added, the weight of the tank would increase by an additional three tons – at the least favorable location, on top of the turret.
Challenger 2 Sank into the Ground
The Russian tanks, with all their flaws, have a ground weight of around 50 tons, in a much more comfortable position. The enormous weight of western tanks reduces speed and climbing ability, increases wear and tear in general, and cannot be supported by every bridge and terrain. An extreme example of this was experienced by the "Sun" team last year on a Ukrainian training ground. In front of their eyes, a Challenger 2 literally sank into the ground. A unique feature of Ukraine, beneath the seemingly solid ground surface, a mire and water bladder had formed.
Overweight has serious consequences. The Russians know in advance on which routes these tanks can move at all and on which they cannot. Therefore, the "maneuvering space" shrinks much more than one could imagine, according to expert Watling. He assumes that the weight increase is not worth the "extra protection." Even if the tank does not explode upon impact, it will still be so damaged that it cannot continue. It's only a matter of time before it is completely shut down. However, with a surviving crew. In Watling's opinion, the optimal zone of protection, mobility, and firepower is around 55 tons.
Different Role of Tanks
In reality, the role of the combat tank in Ukraine has developed differently than expected. Rare is the tank duel, let alone a tank battle. Directly at the contact line, combat tanks are primarily used to provide cover for the infantry trying to cross no man's land. The typical role is that of a "sniper tank," where combat tanks lie in wait in a hidden position until a drone discovers a target that is then taken under fire from a distance.
Overall, armored fighting vehicles seem to have fared better. Marder and Bradley weigh around 35 tons and are therefore more mobile and less restricted by the terrain. Their machine guns were not developed for tank combat, but their high rate of fire can effectively support infantry. The Bushmaster-MK can even take on a Russian T-90 combat tank. At least on short ranges. If the armored fighting vehicle reaches the firing position first, the Bushmaster's projectile shrapnel and sensors damage the combat tank's optics and add-ons. However, the picture changes on long ranges.
Losing Weight, But How
What lessons can be learned from the fighting? Fundamentally, the importance of weight was recognized in the West as well. The possibilities for reducing it are limited. This is also because the next generations still rely on the chassis of the Cold War. With the use of an unmanned turret, one hopes to save significantly on weight. The talk is of up to ten tons. At the same time, active protection systems and a second autonomous weapons station will increase the weight again. However, the terrain in Ukraine with its long mud periods poses a particular challenge, which does not occur in other regions.
Sources: The Sun, Telegraph
The USSR, as part of the Warsaw Pact during the Cold War, heavily relied on tank warfare with models like the T-72. This is in contrast to the Ukraine's current situation, where the weight of modern NATO tanks like the Challenger 2 and Leopard 2 is proving to be a significant disadvantage due to the terrain and prolonged conflicts.
The Second World War served as a basis for the design of many NATO tanks, including the Leopard 2. These tanks were primarily designed for defensive purposes, equipped with features such as all-around vision and a reverse gear, to act as "tank destroyers" against a large enemy force.
Despite the advancements in protection features and precision weapons, the heavy weight of modern NATO tanks continues to pose challenges in conflicts like the one in Ukraine. This weight reduction is a concern for future tank designs, especially when considering the unique challenges presented by the terrain in Ukraine.
