The Russian military has once again brought its experimental tank, which was called the "Turtle Tank", into the conduct of hostilities in Ukraine.
Details
The "Turtle Tank" has a unique device - an improvised steel structure, resembling a shed, attached above a combat vehicle. In addition, the tank is equipped with electronic warfare (EW) systems aimed at countering Ukrainian FVP drones.
According to reports, this new iteration of the tank was spotted near Krasnohorivka in eastern Ukraine after its predecessor was destroyed by artillery fire.
While the details of this modification are open to question, it is clear that the steel structure surrounding the tank greatly impairs its battlefield situational awareness and mobility.
The advent of highly maneuverable unmanned aerial vehicles with a first-person view (FPV) has prompted the introduction of various protective measures on tanks, including "safety cages" designed to prevent drone attacks. Given the ability of drones to navigate tight spaces, including vehicle hatches and doors, the development of fully enclosed protective structures resembling armored sheds is a logical progression in strengthening tank protection.
The deployment of the turtle tank highlights the evolving nature of warfare in the digital age, where adversaries are constantly improving and adapting their tactics to counter new threats.