Neither the Leopard or Challenger tanks were game changers

Posted on: January 3, 2024 at 08:24:55 CT

for the AFU. Several dozen Leopard IIs have been knocked out and the Challengers were withdrawn after a few of them were destroyed in battle. Some Leopard I tanks were sent as replacements, but their 60s technology lacked modern optics/fire control systems. The Abrams M1A1 tanks given to the Ukraine mount the exact same main gun as the Leopard II. Same gun and the same ammo. The Abrams performs poorly on a muddy battlefield and it is far too heavy for the bridges in the Ukrainian theater. However, the primary disadvantage is the considerable maintenance requirements and the absence of repair facilities capable of engine replacement and overhauls. Fuel consumption is also a major problem. Don't recall where I read this, but its been reported that the U.S. refused to send Abrams tanks equipped with modern 'special explosive armor' gear.