New footage from the front lines in Russia’s Kursk region, which has faced Ukrainian assaults since early August, reveals the destruction of a coveted Ukrainian Leopard 2A6 main battle tank in a drone strike.
While videos increasingly showcase the obliteration of Ukraine’s other advanced Western-supplied tank, the M1A1 Abrams, the Leopard 2A6 has appeared less frequently on the battlefield. Deployed to the front lines much earlier, these tanks have rarely been spotted in combat scenarios.
According to German sources, as of early January, only a small number of Ukraine’s Leopard 2A6 tanks remain operational, with the fleet suffering significant combat losses.
While Ukraine has received a significant number of Western-built tanks, most of these are older models such as the Leopard 1 and Leopard 2A4. The more advanced Leopard 2A6 is often reserved for elite units like the 47th Mechanized Brigade.
Interestingly, the Leopard 2A6 made its combat debut during the mass offensives against Russian positions in early June 2023. Surprisingly, it was among the first Western-supplied vehicles to be disabled and destroyed by Russian forces.
In addition to combat losses, several Leopard 2 tanks have been captured by Russian forces. These captured vehicles are not only displayed within the country but also studied extensively. Both the more advanced Leopard 2A6 and the widely available, though less capable, Leopard 2A4 have been captured. A Leopard 2A4 was confirmed captured in December 2022, followed by a Leopard 2A6 in April 2023.
In early September, footage surfaced showing the capture of another Leopard 2A6 and an M1 Abrams near the strategically crucial town of Avdiivka in the disputed Donbas region. While Germany and other European nations have committed to increasing their supply of Leopard 1 tanks, neither Berlin nor Washington has indicated plans to send more Leopard 2A6 or M1 Abrams tanks. This makes the loss of these advanced vehicles particularly challenging for the Ukrainian Army to replace. Moreover, Ukraine’s most capable Soviet-era tank, the T-80, which features a powerful gas turbine engine similar to the Abrams, has also been frequently seen facing significant losses.
Recently, within the past 24 hours, news broke that Australia and the United States are in discussions to supply M1 Abrams tanks, retired from Australian service to Ukraine. This move aligns with the international community’s continued efforts to support Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia.
These talks come as Australia steps up its military aid to Ukraine and commits to new strategic measures to bolster European security. According to unofficial sources, the number of tanks proposed is substantial, aiming to enhance the Ukrainian army’s armored capabilities to address the current battlefield conditions. A final agreement is expected to be explored in the coming days, which could not only reinforce strategic ties between Australia and Ukraine but also strengthen the partnership between Australia and the US.
The Leopard 2A6 tank sent to Ukraine stands as one of the most sophisticated main battle tanks globally. Armed with a 120mm Rheinmetall L55 smoothbore gun, it delivers exceptional firepower and accuracy. This formidable tank can launch a variety of ammunition, including armor-piercing, high-explosive, and even guided projectiles. Its state-of-the-art fire control system allows for accurate targeting even while on the move, and its thermal optic capabilities ensure precision in any visibility conditions.
Underneath its armored exterior, the Leopard 2A6 boasts a powerful MTU MB 873 diesel engine with around 1,500 horsepower. This power grants it impressive maneuverability and speed. On roads, it can reach up to 72 km/h, and even off-road, it can move at speeds of up to 50 km/h. Weighing approximately 62.5 tons, it provides both stability and protection, thanks to its advanced design and multi-layered armor, composed of composite materials and equipped with active protection systems.
When it comes to defense, the Leopard 2A6 is top-tier. Its combined armor is specifically engineered to deflect and absorb hits from anti-tank shells. Adding to its prowess, the tank is fitted with modern communication and control technologies, enabling seamless integration into contemporary combat networks. This capability is crucial for the effective coordination of combat units on today’s dynamic battlefield.
The Russian military has been developing intricate strategies to combat Leopard 2A6 armored tanks, creatively leveraging reconnaissance and anti-tank drones. These drones deliver real-time updates on the location and movement of enemy tanks, effectively acting as sentinels on the battlefield.
With their capacity for surveillance, these drones relay critical data to commanders, who can then pinpoint weak spots in the Leopard 2A6 formations and orchestrate precise attacks. Interestingly, some drones are even outfitted with small bombs or missiles, giving them the ability to strike armored units directly.
The Russian forces don’t stop there; they also employ the Kornet anti-tank guided missile system, specifically engineered to cut through heavy armor. The Kornet boasts a range of up to 5.5 km and employs laser targeting to ensure remarkable accuracy.
Once a drone locks onto a target, it communicates with the Kornet’s fire control system, which can swiftly dispatch missiles with pinpoint precision. This blended use of reconnaissance and direct attack enhances the success rate of their strikes, making the Leopard 2A6 notably vulnerable on the battlefield.
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