Russia Captures First US M1150 ABV Assault Breacher Vehicle in Ukraine
According to a series of images circulated on Russian social media, Russian troops have reportedly evacuated and captured an American armored vehicle, the M1150 Assault Breacher Vehicle (ABV), from the Ukrainian front. This vehicle was lost by the 47th Mechanized Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces at the end of February 2024. These images were widely shared and disseminated on Russian social media as of April 25, 2024, marking the first documented capture of the American M1150.
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The capture of the US M1150 ABV took place in the region of Berdychi in Ukraine. (Picture source: Russian social media)
This capture took place in the region of Berdychi, where clashes between Ukrainian and Russian forces have been recurrent. The M1150 ABV is a specialized vehicle based on the M1 Abrams tank, designed to provide fire support and mine-clearing capabilities during military operations. However, the condition of the vehicle clearly leaves something to be desired
The only information available about the delivery of the M1150 is that the United States had reportedly delivered at least one of these vehicles before November 2023. This would imply that potentially all M1150s (which is to say, one) may have been captured by Russian forces. The Russians had never captured such vehicles before; if this information is confirmed, it would constitute a first.
The M1150 Assault Breacher Vehicle (ABV) is a specialized armored vehicle used by the US Army and also by Ukraine. Its main armament includes a 12.7 mm caliber machine gun, providing effective firepower to support operations on the ground. To ensure its protection, the M1150 is equipped with a welded steel structure reinforced by an array of explosive reactive armor (ERA).
With a weight of 50,000 kg, the M1150 is designed to be robust and capable of withstanding the harsh conditions encountered on the battlefield. Its design was carried out by the US Army Anniston Depot, reflecting the advanced engineering expertise of the US military.
The M1150 can reach a speed of 70 km/h on roads, allowing it to move quickly and efficiently on the battlefield. To facilitate its operations, the vehicle is equipped with various accessories, including full-width mine plows, combat dozer blades, rapid ordnance removal systems, and lane marking systems.
The M1150 is designed to be operated by a crew of two people. In terms of dimensions, the vehicle measures 7.9 meters in length, 3.6 meters in width, and 2.4 meters in height. With a range of 500 km, the M1150 is capable of covering long distances while maintaining its operational capability.
It should be noted that this capture has not been confirmed by either of the two armed forces as of now. However, if confirmed, it would mark a first in the conflict in Ukraine. It will be important to pay attention to communications from the Ukrainian or Russian armed forces for further updates.
An US M1150 captured by Russian Forces in Ukraine. (Picture source: Russian social media)
Defense News April 2024