Putin's Tank Dilemma Amid the Ukraine War
The wear and tear on Russia's tanks in the Ukraine war is creating significant challenges for President Vladimir Putin. Satellite images have revealed that the once seemingly endless Soviet-era tank reserves are depleting. According to research by the Süddeutsche Zeitung, Russia has lost nearly 3,200 tanks since the beginning of the conflict, more than the number of tanks it initially deployed. These losses are compounded by the fact that many of the remaining tanks are in poor condition and require significant repairs.
Quality vs. Quantity: Russia's Tank Strategy
To compensate for these losses, Russia has been relying on its old tank inventory, modernizing Cold War-era vehicles and deploying them to the front lines. The think tank International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) reports that Moscow has been trading quality for quantity, pulling thousands of older tanks out of storage at a rate of up to 90 vehicles per month. However, this strategy may soon reach its limits. Satellite images indicate that Putin's tank stockpile is running out, with many depots now half-empty or worse.
Geopolitical Tensions and Military Struggles
Meanwhile, geopolitical tensions continue to rise. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, known for his close ties to Putin, visited Kiev for the first time since the invasion began. This visit comes amidst Orbán's efforts to position Hungary as an 'honest broker' within the EU, despite his controversial stance on Ukraine. On the battlefield, Ukraine's forces are struggling to contain Russian advances in the east, exacerbated by delays in Western military aid. Additionally, Russia reported the destruction of 36 Ukrainian drones in various regions, highlighting the ongoing drone warfare that has become a significant aspect of the conflict.
- In March, an analysis by the Institute for the Study of War showed that Russia had already used up 25 to 40 percent of its Soviet reserves. The condition of the remaining tanks is poor, with many being stripped down for parts to repair those at the front. The IISS estimates that Russia has around 3,200 tanks left, but most are in dire need of repair.
- Orbán's visit to Kiev is significant given his history of blocking EU efforts to aid Ukraine and sanction Russia. His meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is seen as an attempt to achieve peace, although it comes at a time when Ukraine is facing severe military challenges.
- Russia's use of drones has intensified, with both sides employing these devices for surveillance and attacks. Ukraine has targeted Russian energy sites and border towns, while Russia claims to have shot down numerous Ukrainian drones in recent operations. The ongoing drone warfare adds another layer of complexity to the already volatile situation.
