Russia revives rare T‑80UE-1 tanks for Ukraine, stirs battlefield dynamics

The Russian army is deploying a rare main tank, T-80EU-1, in Ukraine, a strategic move that is catching attention. These tanks are being delivered to Ukraine's 4th Armored Division defenders. However, it's noteworthy that identical machines were seen on the front two years ago, some of which were captured by Ukrainian forces, according to the Defence Express portal.

Defense Express reports, "The Russian Federation has revisited its deployment of the scarce T-80UE-1 tanks." In early April 2024, it was announced that these unique tanks were being sent to support operations in Ukraine, specifically for use by the 4th Armored Division.

It's important to highlight that the tanks Russia is dispatching to Ukraine are not new to the battlefield; in fact, Ukrainian forces managed to capture four of these T-80UE-1s from the aggressor two years prior. The Russian military deployed these distinctive and limited machines extensively in the spring of 2022. At that time, the T-80UE-1 was a rare commodity, with Russia possessing only a battalion's worth (several dozen units). Following the capture of several units by Ukraine, the number of these tanks in the Russian arsenal is presumed to have dwindled, especially if no additional units of this model have been produced in the interim.

The T-80UE-1 tanks are, in essence, an advanced iteration that integrates features from multiple variants of the well-regarded T-80 series. The "UE-1" model builds on the T-80BW's hull and the T-80UD's turret. The design includes an upgraded cannon to enhance its offensive capabilities, swapping the 2A46M-1 for the more potent and efficient 2A46M-4.

Furthermore, the 6EK43-2S ammunition loading mechanism enables the T-80UE-1 to fire BOPS projectiles, a Russian counter to NATO's APFSDS rounds. The tank also boasts a second-generation reactive armor, Kontakt-5, propelled by an engine that delivers 1250 HP, reaching up to 47 mph on roads and 37 mph off-road.