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Russia Deploys Advanced Fiber-Optic Drones to Strike US M1A1SA Abrams Tank in Ukraine.
Recently released images show a Russian fiber-optic FPV drone targeting a Ukrainian M1A1SA Abrams tank in the border region of Kursk. This type of drone, utilized by the Russian military, was observed delivering a critical hit to the turret of the tank, suggesting potentially irreparable damage to the equipment and severe consequences for the crew, according to Russian sources.
The M1A1SA Abrams is an upgraded version of the US M1A1 main battle tank. (Picture source: Russian Social Media)
Fiber-optic drones, or FPV (First Person View) drones with fiber transmission, are remotely operated devices whose control and video feed data are transmitted directly through a fiber-optic cable, enabling superior image quality compared to more conventional drones. Unlike radio-controlled drones, fiber-optic drones are nearly impervious to electronic warfare interference, providing continuous and reliable control in environments with heavy jamming. This technology also allows for high-resolution, real-time image transmission without quality degradation, offering the operator a precise view of the target up until the moment of impact.
However, fiber-optic drones have certain limitations despite their advantages in jamming resistance. Their range is restricted by the length of the fiber-optic cable, limiting their operational distance compared to radio-controlled drones. Additionally, their maneuverability can be affected by the cable drag, making these drones less suited for missions requiring high mobility or rapid trajectory changes. Although highly effective for precision strikes within a limited radius, these technical constraints render them less versatile than radio-frequency drones in large-scale operations.
Russian forces initially introduced these drones in the border regions near Kursk. Since then, their usage has expanded to other frontline sectors, marking a technological adaptation within the Russian arsenal.
Despite their effectiveness, some experts believe that fiber-optic drones might represent a technological dead-end for future combat drone development, primarily due to limitations in range and maneuverability compared to radio-controlled drones. Nevertheless, the Russian military has increased drone usage in its operations, employing them for reconnaissance, precision strikes, and deeper strategic objectives, as demonstrated here in targeting an Abrams tank.
The M1A1SA Abrams is an upgraded version of the US M1A1 main battle tank, featuring advanced technologies to enhance its battlefield performance. Its primary armament includes a 120mm M256 smoothbore cannon, a coaxial 7.62mm MAG58 machine gun, a 7.62mm machine gun mounted on the loader's hatch, and a 12.7mm machine gun. This tank is equipped with an NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) protection system, infrared night vision, and a computerized battle management system, enhancing crew situational awareness. Protection is provided by composite Chobham armor, reinforced with third-generation depleted uranium components, offering increased resilience against ballistic threats. With a four-person crew (commander, gunner, loader, and driver), the M1A1SA weighs around 63.5 tons, reaches a maximum speed of 67 km/h, and has an operational range of 426 km. Its dimensions are 9.83 m in length, 3.65 m in width, and 2.43 m in height.
Regarding its deployment in Ukraine, the United States delivered 31 M1A1SA Abrams tanks to the Ukrainian Armed Forces in September 2023 as part of military aid to strengthen Ukraine’s defensive capabilities against Russian aggression. These tanks have been engaged on the front, particularly in the Kursk region, where they have encountered attacks from Russian fiber-optic FPV drones. Despite their robust build and advanced capabilities, some of these tanks have sustained significant damage during these engagements.
These developments highlight the rapid adaptation of drone technology within Russian forces, underscoring an increasing reliance on drones on the battlefield for both surveillance and targeted strikes.