How Ukraine Became the World’s Tank Museum in the Shortest Time

Support for Ukraine Increases
Akin to a Global Tank Expo
What Kind of Tanks Are There?

One reason Ukraine has managed to hold its own in the war against Russia, which was once one of the world’s superpowers, is the active support of the Western world. A variety of weapons from all over the world have been pouring into Ukraine, making it practically a showcase of Western weaponry, with everything from anti-aircraft weapons to guns and anti-tank weapons.

However, the most eye-catching weapons are likely the tanks. Because Ukraine, originally from the Eastern Bloc, had tanks from both its native Soviet Union and Russia, it is a very unusual case where one can see both Eastern and Western armored forces. Let’s take a closer look at this today.

From Leopard 2 to Abrams
All Western Tanks Gathered

The countries that were most actively supporting Ukraine were, of course, the U.S. and NATO countries in Western Europe. Therefore, most weapons provided to Ukraine also originate from these countries, including iconic tanks such as the German Leopard 2 and the U.S. M1 Abrams.

The Leopard 2 is mainly being considered for provision to Ukraine by Poland, which is replacing its armored forces on a large scale to avoid confusion. France also shows a willingness to support but needs permission from Germany, the producing country. Ukraine has consistently requested the Abrams, and both tanks are highly likely to be provided to Ukraine.

Possession of Various Eastern Bloc Tanks
From Existing Inventory to Captured Items

As Ukraine was originally one of the satellite states of the Soviet Union, the majority of its main tanks were the T-64 series produced in the Soviet Union. Ukraine operates the aging T-64 as the T-64 BM Bulat and the T-64 BV obr2017 after refurbishment and also possesses many T-72s and T-80s.

In addition to the inventory Ukraine already had, the country also has T-72s provided by Poland and tanks captured from Russia during the war. Especially in the case of Eastern Bloc tanks, they are evaluated as powerful forces because Ukraine, a land force powerhouse, can operate them easily.

British Challenger 2 Also Planned for Support

Recently, the British government is considering providing Ukraine with the main tank used by the British army, the Challenger 2. This would mean that tanks from both the Eastern and Western Blocs would be gathered. Like Israel, post-war Ukraine could potentially develop into an outstanding arms-producing nation based on its experience of operating various weapons.