Russian Army Deploys Modernized T-62M Tanks to Ukraine Frontline due to high battlefield losses.

The Russian army has deployed modernized T-62M tanks to the Ukrainian front. This deployment was revealed in a video circulating on social media, showcasing the upgraded tanks being transported to the conflict zone
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According to a recent video published on Social Network, the Russian Army sends by railway modernized T-62M tanks for deployment in Ukraine.  (Picture source: Telegram and Vitaly Kuzmin)

According to public figures, Russia maintains a substantial reserve of different variants of T-62 tanks, which are now being tapped to replace the numerous tanks lost in ongoing hostilities. The exact number of T-62M tanks sent to Ukraine remains undisclosed, but it is indicative of Russia's intent to utilize its available resources to maintain its operational strength.

The T-62M tanks featured in the video display significant upgrades designed to improve their combat effectiveness and survivability. Notably, these tanks are equipped with a new armor package, providing enhanced protection for the crew and critical components. Additionally, extra armor has been mounted above the turret, a modification aimed at countering threats from FPV (First-Person View) drone attacks and loitering munitions, which have become prevalent on modern battlefields.

The Russian army continues to experience substantial losses in Ukraine. As of July 25, 2024, Russian combat losses have reached an estimated 571,350 personnel, including 1,230 personnel killed or wounded in the past day alone. In terms of equipment, the Russian forces have lost 8,313 main battle tanks, with 11 tanks destroyed in just the last 24 hours. Additionally, the Russian army has lost 16,039 armored fighting vehicles, 15,804 artillery systems, and 12,610 UAVs since the beginning of the invasion​.

The T-62M is a modernized version of the T-62 main battle tank, which was initially developed by the Soviet Union in the late 1950s. The original T-62 tank entered service in 1961 and was a significant advancement over its predecessors, featuring a smoothbore 115mm gun capable of firing APFSDS rounds, which provided superior armor-piercing capability compared to the rifled guns used previously.

The T-62M modernization program was introduced in the early 1980s to extend the operational life and enhance the combat effectiveness of the aging T-62 fleet. This modernization included several significant upgrades. The T-62M is equipped with a new armor package, including BDD (Brow Enhanced Protection) composite armor on the glacis plate and additional armor on the turret to increase resistance against modern anti-tank weapons. Furthermore, the T-62M features enhanced side skirts for additional protection against shaped charges.

In terms of firepower, the T-62M retains the 115mm U-5TS smoothbore gun but is fitted with an improved fire control system, including the Volna fire control system, which integrates a laser rangefinder and a ballistic computer, significantly improving its accuracy and target engagement capabilities. Night vision capabilities are also enhanced with the inclusion of passive night sights for the gunner and the driver.

Mobility upgrades for the T-62M include a more powerful V-55U engine, producing 620 horsepower, and an upgraded transmission, providing better performance and reliability. Additionally, the tank's suspension system was improved to enhance its cross-country mobility.

In the context of the Ukrainian conflict, the T-62M offers the Russian forces a capable, if somewhat dated, platform that can be quickly deployed to replace the losses of more modern tanks. Its upgraded armor and fire control systems provide a level of protection and combat effectiveness that, while not on par with the latest main battle tanks, still presents a credible threat on the battlefield. The additional armor on the turret, specifically designed to counter threats from FPV drones and loitering munitions, addresses some of the contemporary challenges posed by modern warfare.

Overall, the T-62M's deployment in Ukraine highlights Russia's strategy of leveraging existing resources and modernizing older equipment to maintain operational capability amidst significant battlefield attrition.