According to news published by the Russian Press Agency RIA on April 25, 2023, relayed by Reuters, in a recent development, Russia has started employing its advanced T-14 Armata Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) to target Ukrainian forces. However, these tanks have not been involved in any direct attack missions thus far.
According to the Russian Press Agency RIA, the T-14 Armata tanks have been equipped with additional armor on their sides, and their crews have undergone “combat coordination” exercises at training facilities within Ukraine.
On February 14, 2023, the Army Recognition editorial team reported that Russian soldiers had started training with the T-14 Armata tank for possible deployment to Ukraine. Drawing on information from Russian sources, the deployment of T-14 Armata tanks in Ukraine is intended to counteract the Leopard 2A6, Challenger 2 and M1A1 Abrams tanks, which have been pledged by the United States and European nations.
The T-14 Armata is a next-generation main battle tank developed and designed by Russia’s Uralvagonzavod, a leading tank manufacturer. The development of the T-14 began in the early 2010s as part of the Armata Universal Combat Platform, aiming to create a versatile and modular system that could be adapted for various combat roles.