Ukraine’s Military Tank Inventory: Current Status and Future Prospects

Ukraine's military tank inventory has undergone significant changes since the start of the conflict. A comprehensive understanding of the current and evolving situation is crucial for strategic analysis and planning.

Current Tank Holdings

According to a 2019 report from the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), Ukraine possessed a total of 3,900 military tanks before the conflict began. However, the number of operational tanks has surged due to losses on both sides.

Despite the extensive losses, Ukraine has managed to capture numerous Russian T-72 and T-80 tanks, increasing its total number of tanks in the field. Many abandoned or repaired Russian vehicles also contribute to this count.

Operational Tanks Before the War

Sources indicate that Ukraine started the conflict with around 800 operational tanks. These include:

130 T-72 tanks 410 1983 model T-64BV tanks 210 T-64BV mod 2017 tanks 100 T-64BM Bulat tanks About 1,000 tanks in storage

Since 2014, Ukraine had reported destroying or damaging around 440 tanks during the conflict with rebels, suggesting an even greater attrition rate.

Current Tank Numbers and NATO Contributions

As of 2024, Ukraine’s military tanks have reached a grand total of 2,593. This significant increase is due to:

Predicted supply of 31 M1A Abrams tanks from the USA, along with 8 recovery vehicles 196 refurbished Leopard II tanks from NATO members 178 refurbished Leopard 1 tanks Leclerc tanks promised by France, though details on delivery and numbers remain unclear 14 Challenger II tanks from the UK

Ukraine’s military is also known to possess some T-84 tanks, though their numbers remain small and not prominently featured on the battlefield.

Strategic Implications

The influx of tanks from NATO nations has bolstered Ukraine’s military capabilities. However, the logistical challenges of integrating these diverse systems remain significant.

Open-source intelligence analysts claim that Ukraine has captured at least 117 Russian tanks, with a total of 2550 tanks including light and main battle tanks. On the Russian side, it is estimated that they have captured 37 Ukrainian tanks but lost over 530 due to various reasons.

Technological Superiority and New Threats

The Ukrainian military has adapted to the modern battlefield, utilizing newer technologies like low-flying drones and Javelin anti-tank missiles. Drones and these advanced missiles have proved effective in both ambushes and direct strikes on Russian tanks.

Additionally, Ukraine has received the NLAW (Next-generation Light Anti-tank Weapon) from Britain, enhancing its capabilities to engage even heavily armored targets from concealed positions.

Conclusion

Ukraine's military tank inventory remains a critical factor in defining its combat capabilities. As the conflict continues, the ongoing influx of new equipment and the adaptation of military tactics will be key to sustaining and enhancing Ukraine's position.