Ukrainian drone operators in Krasnohorivka reported sightings of unusual armored vehicles known as “turtle tanks.” These tanks, resembling mechanical turtles, are heavily armored with wide metal shells and are believed to belong to the 5th Motor Rifle Brigade under Russian command.
The turtle tanks are speculated to serve as breachers, leading other vehicles through minefields to enemy lines. While the purpose-built American Assault Breacher is highly effective, the Russian army lacks a similar vehicle. To compensate, the 5th Motor Rifle Brigade may have repurposed T-72 tanks with additional armor and mine-clearing gear to function as effective breachers.
The minefield-breaching turtle tanks were witnessed advancing through minefields and withstanding drone attacks. However, concerns have been raised about their long-term viability against more substantial threats like missiles and artillery, especially with the imminent resupply of ammunition to Ukrainian forces after a U.S. aid blockade is set to end.
The use of FPV drones by Ukraine is attributed to ammunition shortages resulting from the U.S. aid blockade. The impending approval of U.S. funding for the Ukrainian war effort is expected to alleviate this issue. The future of the turtle tanks, optimized to resist small drones, remains uncertain as they may face greater challenges once Ukrainian forces possess more firepower.
Analysts describe the turtle tanks as a bizarre development in the adaptation battle in Ukraine but caution that any advantage they provide to the Russian army may be temporary. The success of the DIY breachers in navigating minefields and withstanding drone attacks raises questions about their effectiveness against more significant threats. The evolving dynamics in the conflict zone continue to impact military strategies and tactics employed by both sides.
