Transnistria Strengthens Its T-64 Tanks with Anti-Drone Protection Inspired by Ukrainian Conflict.

The Armed Forces of Transnistria have begun equipping their T-64 tanks with anti-drone protection, drawing inspiration from the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
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The T-64 is a main battle tank introduced into service in 1976. (Picture source: Transnistrian MoD)

The Ministry of Defense of the Transnistrian Moldovan Republic reported that, after analyzing the experience of Russian forces in Ukraine, it was decided to outfit their tank fleet with systems designed to protect against drones. This decision reflects the growing threat of unmanned aerial vehicles in modern warfare.

Transnistria's army currently possesses 17 Soviet-era T-64 tanks, 12 of which are operational, while the other five are in reserve. The tank battalion of the First Independent Guards Motorized Rifle Brigade is stationed in the village of Vladimirovka, just four kilometers from the Ukrainian border.

During recent military exercises in the republic, the Ministry of Defense showcased two tanks equipped with protective structures commonly known as "grills." These structures are designed to shield the upper part of the tank turret from drone attacks. Given the limited number of tanks in Transnistria's arsenal, it is likely that this protection has been installed on all of them.

In the Russian military, this type of protection has become standard on tanks due to the high prevalence of drones on the battlefield. Tanks now come equipped with these defenses directly from the factory, although many units also make additional modifications based on their combat experience.

The T-64 is a main battle tank introduced into service in 1976. Designed in the Soviet Union, it has been widely used by several countries, including Russia and Ukraine. This tank is operated by a crew of three, which distinguishes it with an advanced automation system for its time, allowing for a reduced crew size compared to other contemporary tanks.

With a length of 6.54 meters, a width of 3.41 meters, and a height of 2.17 meters, the T-64 is relatively compact for its class, while weighing in at 38 tons. These dimensions and weight reflect a balance between armored protection, mobility, and firepower—key characteristics for a main battle tank.

The T-64 has a turret that can rotate 360 degrees, providing maximum flexibility in combat. Its main gun can elevate by +14 degrees and depress by -6 degrees, allowing it to engage targets at various elevations, whether below or above its position.

The T-64 may be an older tank, but it can still prove valuable in conflict. Its upgrade with anti-drone grills is not surprising given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which, as a reminder, could rapidly extend into Transnistria.

A T-64 without anti-drone protection. (Picture source: Vitaly V.Kuzmin)