The tank remains an important means of fire support for infantry, although the development of drones and electronic warfare (EW) has significantly changed the tactics of its use. This was told by a tanker from the 13th Brigade of Operational Purpose of the National Guard of Ukraine ‘Khartiya,’ callsign ‘Mahistr,’ who operates a T-72 from 1982.
According to the serviceman, approximately every three to four months new types of drones, EW systems appear or the nature of threats changes. Currently, tanks operate mainly from covered positions, carrying out tasks in support of infantry.
“The tank remains the same, while the conditions of its use are changing,” noted ‘Mahistr.’
To protect the crew, a range of measures is used: EW, camouflage, additional physical protection, shelters, as well as the choice of time of day and weather conditions. A separate threat is FPV drones on fiber optic cable, against which EW does not work.
At the same time, the tanker believes it is too early to speak about the final disappearance of tanks. In his opinion, their role will depend on the phase of the war and the nature of combat operations.
“As long as an infantryman is sitting in a trench, the tank is relevant,” the serviceman emphasized.
‘Mahistr’ also predicts further development of ground robotic systems. In his opinion, this reduces risks for military personnel.
