U.S. admits Abrams tanks falter in Ukrainian conflict
Jake Sullivan, the U.S. National Security Advisor, admitted in a widely discussed interview that the Abrams tanks did not meet the expectations placed on them by Ukrainians and most of the West. The American tanks proved to be of little use in the reality of the war with Russia; many were destroyed, while some were transported to Moscow, where they were showcased as trophies from Ukraine.
As part of an American aid package to Ukraine, 31 Abrams M1A1 tanks were sent. Initially, newer M1A2 variants were considered, but ultimately (among other reasons, due to the possibility of faster delivery), older models were chosen. Even the Abrams M1A1 provides the crew with significantly more comfort, better equipment, and greater firepower than the Soviet-era designs on which Ukrainians relied for their armoured strength at the outbreak of the war. However, the American machines did not prove as durable as expected.
Jake Sullivan candid about Abrams in Ukraine
According to data provided by the creators of the Oryx blog, who monitor and document equipment losses in the war in Ukraine, the Russians have already eliminated 16 Abrams tanks from further participation in battles. Some sources claim the losses are even greater, reaching up to 20 such machines.
– When it comes to Abrams tanks, we sent Abrams tanks to Ukraine. These Abrams tanks are not actually being used by the units because it is not the most useful piece of equipment for them in this fight – said Sullivan.
The Defence Blog service recalled that the units provided to Ukraine were modified. The Americans decided to use modified armour modules and replace depleted uranium panels with tungsten inserts. This was driven by concerns that sensitive technologies might fall into Russian hands. Additionally, the Abrams tanks sent to the front were stripped of the latest communication systems.
Controversial statement about Abrams
The concerns were justified because the losses associated with the Abrams are very high, and some units were captured by the Russians. Some were analysed by experts, while others ended up in Moscow on display as trophies from Ukraine.
Some observers of the war in Ukraine criticise the statement made by Jake Sullivan. They assert that the main problem was not the capabilities of the Abrams tanks but the very small number of units the United States decided to provide to Ukraine.
