Second and Third U.S.-Supplied Abrams Tanks Destroyed in Ukraine

Since 2023, the Abrams tanks deployed to Ukraine represent some of the most sophisticated equipment available to the defenders. Their value lies in their formidable armament, durable armor, and state-of-the-art systems, making it understandable why these tanks are prime targets for Russian forces. The Bulgarian Military reported that the Kremlin has even initiated a program rewarding soldiers with $1200 for each M1 Abrams they manage to destroy.

Despite last month's reports of the aggressor destroying the first Ukrainian Abrams, which was documented in photographs, the Ukrainian forces had to adapt their strategies. Instead of frontline engagements, these American-made tanks were often deployed for reconnaissance missions. Their advanced vision systems allowed them to identify enemy units from distances up to 5 miles—a capability surpassing that of other Western models.

The introduction of the Abrams tanks on the battlefield has led to increased engagements, with the aggressor's forces succeeding in damaging the first tank and subsequently destroying two more. These events all occurred in the Avdiivka region, where one of the tanks was also accompanied by an M1150 ABV, a rare engineering vehicle designed for clearing minefields and scarcely seen in Ukraine.

The M1 Abrams, a behemoth at 63 tons and nearly 33 feet in length, stands as a testament to American military engineering. Its primary weapon, a 120 mm cannon, complemented by .50 (12.7 mm) and .30 (7.62 mm) caliber machine guns, enables it to neutralize a wide array of threats, ranging from infantry to the most heavily armored tanks.

The tank's armor, notably incorporating depleted uranium in its original configuration, offers exceptional protection. However, the variant sent to Ukraine has been modified with tungsten inserts instead, a change motivated by concerns over sensitive American technology potentially falling into Russian hands. According to the Bulgarian Military, this adaptation in armament could be a factor in why more Abrams tanks have been lost.

Additionally, the Abrams tanks in Ukraine have been outfitted with ARAT-1 armor packages from the TUSK kit. This reactive armor, consisting of two plates separated by an explosive charge, is designed to lessen the impact of anti-tank munitions. Through these modifications, the Abrams tanks serve as a potent asset in Ukraine's arsenal, albeit with the adaptations necessitated by the ongoing conflict.