Ukrainians' 'Frankenstein' tank: Innovation from Russian spoils
Social media has been abuzz with photos of an unusual Ukrainian tank. It was built using T-90M and T-80BWM components, considered the best Russian tanks used in Ukraine.
The T-90M is a tank valued at approximately $4.5 million. Vladimir Putin has repeatedly called this machine the "best tank in the world." Slightly older and equally significant for the units fighting in Ukraine is the T-80BWM, a modernized version of the T-80BW.
Compared to older Russian and Soviet-era tanks, the T-90M and T-80BWM are distinguished by significantly better armor and greater offensive capabilities. These improvements result from their 125 mm caliber guns, which can handle various munitions, and advanced fire control systems with thermal imaging.
A unique, hybrid tank of the Ukrainians
According to commentators on the war in Ukraine, the "Frankenstein" tank showcased by Ukrainians in the 12th Special Forces Brigade Azov highlights their adaptability in constructing functional combat vehicles from captured or damaged enemy equipment.
The defenseromania portal observes that the turret of this tank is protected by armor elements taken from the Russian T-90M. The hull of the Ukrainian "hybrid" has been reinforced with side panels similar to those from the Russian T-80BW, along with elements of unidentified origin.
Where did the ukrainians get the russian parts?
The Russians are losing many tanks in Ukraine, including the most valuable T-90M and T-80BWM models. According to data from the creators of the Oryx blog, which aims to document the equipment losses suffered by the parties fighting in Ukraine, the Russians have lost 122 T-90M units and approximately 140 T-80BWM units.
This tally includes not only destroyed units but also those damaged and captured by Ukrainians, allowing them to carry out actions the Russians would prefer not to see. Captured parts and entire Russian tanks can be examined by experts, incorporated into Ukrainian forces, or used as "donors of spare parts." In this instance, the latter scenario came true to some extent as acquired components were used to build a new, previously unseen hybrid on the front, referred to as the "Frankenstein tank."
