Chechen Leader Showcases Tesla Cybertruck fitted with Russian 12.7mm Heavy Machine Gun.

In a new video, Ramzan Kadyrov, the controversial Chechen leader and close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, unveiled a Tesla Cybertruck equipped with a Russian 12.7mm heavy machine gun. The video, published on YouTube and Telegram on August 17, 2024, shows Kadyrov driving the modified electric vehicle around his palace, standing on the truck's platform, holding the massive weapon and surrounded by belted ammunition.
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Tesla Cybertruck Fitted With Russian 12.7mm Heavy Machine Gun (Picture source: ChenChen MoD)

Kadyrov, known for his flamboyant public displays, claimed that the Cybertruck was a personal gift from Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla. "I literally fell in love with this car. Elon, thank you!" Kadyrov wrote on Telegram, adding that Musk is the "greatest genius of our time." He also invited Musk to visit Chechnya as his "dearest guest."

Neither Tesla nor Musk's spokespersons have confirmed Kadyrov's claims about this gift, raising questions about the authenticity of the Chechen leader's statements.

In the video, Kadyrov praised the Tesla Cybertruck, calling it a "cyber-beast" and promising to send the vehicle to Russian forces fighting in Ukraine. "I am sure this beast will bring many benefits to our troops," he said, echoing the term used by Russian President Vladimir Putin to describe the war in Ukraine as a "special military operation."

Kadyrov's extravagant display comes amid continued criticism of Tesla's claims regarding the Cybertruck's durability, particularly its supposed "bulletproof" capabilities. During the Cybertruck's 2019 unveiling, Musk claimed that the vehicle was "literally bulletproof against a 9mm handgun." However, subsequent evaluations and tests have cast doubt on these claims.

Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, has described the electric pickup as an "armored personnel carrier of the future." A recent test of a prototype Cybertruck involved firing a Thompson submachine gun, chambered in .45 ACP, at the vehicle. Although the larger caliber bullet has different characteristics from the 9mm Parabellum mentioned by Musk, it raised questions about the overall protection level of the Cybertruck. Critics argue that the vehicle's supposed bullet resistance might not meet the high-security standards expected of professional armored vehicles, especially when compared to vehicles like the U.S. Presidential limousine, "The Beast."

Furthermore, concerns have been raised about the implications of the vehicle's bullet resistance for safety. A 2003 study showed that when a bullet penetrates metal, it can carry metal fragments with it, potentially increasing the severity of injuries. This issue underscores the risks of relying on the Cybertruck for genuine protection in conflict zones.

The idea of bringing an electric vehicle, such as the Tesla Cybertruck, to Ukraine raises several questions about its relevance in a conflict context. On one hand, electric vehicles offer potential advantages, such as reducing the need for fossil fuels, which can be difficult to obtain on the front lines. Their silent operation could also be a strategic asset for discreet missions. However, the reliance on charging infrastructure, often nonexistent or damaged in war zones, poses a major challenge. Additionally, the advanced electronics and batteries of these vehicles may be vulnerable to damage from explosions or electromagnetic interference. Therefore, while the idea may seem innovative, it requires a thorough assessment of logistics and conditions on the ground.

Tesla's history of ambitious promises has also fueled skepticism. The company has faced criticism for exaggerated claims about its products, ranging from autonomous driving capabilities to vehicle range, leading to fines and public distrust.

While the Tesla Cybertruck has attracted attention for its innovative design and features, including its stainless steel body and futuristic appearance, its real bulletproof capabilities remain in question. For those seeking real protection in high-risk environments, a professionally armored vehicle might be a more reliable choice.