Decisive blow in Synkivka. Ukrainian forces demolish modern Russian combat vehicles
As stated by Oleksandr Syrski, the commander of the land forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, "the Russians have experienced significant losses." The latest footage from Synkivka comes from Thursday, December 28. You can glimpse heaps of demolished Russian equipment, notably some more modern machines such as the upgraded T-72B3s. The soldiers of the 14th Separate Mechanized Brigade and the 30th Separate Mechanized Brigade are credited with fending off the attacks.
Russian losses in proximity to Kharkiv
Synkivka is a town located in Ukraine near territories forcefully occupied by Russia. As such, the aggressor deploys a significant number of modern machines in the vicinity, with the intent of intimidating Ukrainians and securing the safety of its infantry. However, much like many other locations engaged in long-term combat, Ukraine's defense forces effectively counter Russian onslaughts.
The situation was no different on the morning of December 28th. Ukrainian forces reported the demolition of valuable Russian machines, mainly two T-72B3 tanks. These machines separate themselves from the other Soviet-era designs by their highly effective firepower and robust armor.
As of late 2021, it was reported that the Russians possessed over 1,100 units of the T-72B23 tanks (according to "The Military Balance 2022" report). However, during the hostilities, over 500 of this type of tank were reportedly lost. The Ukrainian army utilizes some Russian T-72B3s and trophies from the battles.
The primary weapon of this machine, introduced to service in 2013, is a 125 mm caliber smoothbore cannon. The tank has an automatic loader designed to fire Swinec-2 projectiles introduced into the service in 2016. These projectiles were designed to obliterate heavy NATO equipment.
Moreover, the T-72 in the B3 variant carries 12.7 mm and 7.62 mm caliber machine guns. It also has a modern Sosna-U sight. However, not all units possess this due to sanctions imposed on Russia. Relative to the basic version, the T-72B3 features enhanced reactive armor.
The remaining machines demolished in Synkivka are Soviet-era BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicles. Their primary function on the front lines is safely transporting infantry soldiers under challenging conditions. It has a seating capacity of up to 10 people. The BMP-2 has a 30 mm caliber 2A42 automatic cannon, a 7.62 mm PKT rifle, and 9M111 Fagot and 9M113 Konkurs anti-tank systems. The maximum speed of this vehicle is 40 mph on asphalt surfaces or up to 4 mph when traveling through water.
