Russia Destroys Ukrainian M1 Abrams Tank

By Olawale Abaire, Warrior Contributor

In a historic first, Russian forces seized an American M1A1 Abrams tank on April 28, 2024, near Berdychi, Ukraine. The tank, which had sustained significant damage, including internal burnout, was hauled away by two BREM-1 recovery vehicles due to its hefty weight of nearly 67 tonnes. This event marks the first time an Abrams tank has fallen into the hands of the Russian Armed Forces in Ukraine, as confirmed by the Russian Ministry of Defense.

The captured American tank will join a wider array of NATO and Ukrainian equipment in an exhibition named “Dead Iron” at Moscow’s Poklonnaya Hill. The exhibition, set to open on May 1, 2024, and run throughout the month, will showcase a variety of military hardware, including Bradley M2A2 and CV9040 infantry fighting vehicles and a Leopard 2A6 tank.

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Russian engineering and repair groups meticulously managed the recovery and transportation of these pieces. The process began with an initial engineering survey to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment. The tanks were then moved to a repair facility, where they are currently undergoing restoration, including the replacement of tracks, some elements of the electrical systems, and other major parts.

The tank, operated by Ukraine’s 47th Mechanized Brigade, was initially immobilized by a Lancet drone and then hit by an anti-tank guided missile (ATGM). The operation was carried out by the Russian 15th Separate Guards Motorized Rifle Brigade, also known as the Black Hussars, and resulted in the disablement of the tank and the reported death of the tank’s driver. It is speculated that this is the same tank later captured by the Russian forces.

Additional details reveal that the detection and engagement of the Abrams tank were coordinated by a drone operator from the Black Hussars, using the call sign “Rassvet”. The tank was moved along Tsentralnaya and Mira streets heading northeast towards Stepove, about one and a half kilometers from the forward Russian positions. Following the destruction of the tank, the Russian 15th Separate Guards Motorized Rifle Brigade publicly acknowledged the operation’s success on their Telegram channel.