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The U.S. Army’s 203rd Reconnaissance Battalion recently participated in Northern Strike 24, showcasing a rarity from the Soviet era: the T-72AG tank. It’s not the first time this tank has joined American military exercises.
Originally unveiled at the IDEX exhibition in 1997, the T-72AG has had limited international orders. The U.S. Army procured it to analyze adversary equipment amid evolving global tensions and shifting military strategies.
Both the U.S. Army and Air Force use various Soviet and Russian systems, like the MiG-29 and different tank models, primarily for training and intelligence. By integrating these platforms into their exercises, U.S. forces gain crucial insights into the capabilities and tactics of potential adversaries.
The acquisition of the MiG-29 was driven by the need to prevent Moldova from selling these high-tech jets to Iran, which could have jeopardized regional stability. By stepping in, the U.S. not only blocked this risky sale but also provided its pilots with a chance to study the MiG-29’s capabilities firsthand, which are on par with American jets like the F-15 and F-16. This knowledge enriches training environments, offering realistic scenarios that prepare pilots for potential encounters with Russian forces.
Furthermore, leveraging these systems enhances the U.S. military’s technological advantage. The U.S. Air Force has set up special units to reverse-engineer foreign technologies, using captured or purchased equipment to improve American military hardware.
Hands-on experience with aircraft like the MiG-29 allows the U.S. to fine-tune its tactics and systems, ensuring readiness for various combat situations. This approach of utilizing Soviet-era technology strengthens both immediate operational readiness and contributes to long-term advancements in military capabilities.
The T-72AG, much like the MiG-29, finds itself playing a crucial role in the USA, albeit with significant modifications from its original design. Originally a Ukrainian upgrade of the T-72 series, this tank is crafted to boost performance and combat prowess. With the integration of a new 6TD-series diesel engine, capable of offering either 1,000 hp or 1,200 hp, the T-72AG stands out in terms of mobility and efficiency, especially in scorching temperatures of up to 55°C.
Diving deeper, the T-72AG boasts state-of-the-art fire control systems [FCS]. These include superior night vision, extended targeting ranges, and an advanced ballistic computer. Weighing in at approximately 45.5 tons, this powerhouse can hit maximum speeds of 65 km/h, or an impressive 75 km/h when equipped with a high-speed gearbox.
In terms of protection, the T-72AG doesn’t hold back. It features Kontakt-5 explosive reactive armor, similar to what’s found on T-80UD and T-84 tanks, providing robust defense against modern anti-tank weaponry.
Despite its impressive technological advancements, the T-72AG has struggled to reach its desired production levels. Several factors contribute to this issue, particularly the financial constraints faced by many potential operators who would benefit from upgrading their existing T-72 fleets.
High costs related to the upgrade package, coupled with limited defense budgets, discourage many countries from investing in the T-72AG. Additionally, the lack of a robust international marketing strategy and stiff competition from other modern tank systems has also hindered its adoption.
Beyond financial hurdles, the upgrade process comes with technical challenges that might deter potential buyers. The need for specialized skills and facilities to implement the upgrade package, along with the requirement for ongoing maintenance and support, can be overwhelming for many nations.
This scenario is particularly relevant for nations with limited military-industrial capacity or those dependent on foreign aid for their military needs. Thus, even though the T-72AG is a feasible choice for upgrading outdated T-72 fleets, a mix of financial, competitive, and logistical hurdles hinders its widespread production and adoption.
To date, around 60 T-72AG tanks have been produced, mainly for use by the Ukrainian military, which customized these vehicles to improve their effectiveness against contemporary threats. This modernization effort began in the early 2000s, driven by insights from conflicts like the Gulf War, where older T-72 models were found wanting against advanced weaponry.
As of now, the operational capability of T-72AG tanks is quite limited. By 2024, only about 40 units remain functional within Ukraine. Combat damage and logistical issues, including the shortage of spare parts and maintenance challenges, impede the tanks’ effective deployment. Other nations that have procured T-72AGs, such as Georgia and Sudan, have encountered similar difficulties, complicating the overall count of operational tanks globally.
BULGARIAN MILITARY