Ukraine pulls US Abrams tanks from frontline due to drone threats

Kyiv has decided to withdraw the Abrams combat tanks, which were supplied by the US, from the frontline. This decision comes after two American military officials informed the Associated Press that Russian drones were the main reason behind this action.

The USA delivered M1A1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, only for them to be pulled back from the frontline amidst the heavy operation of Russian drones. According to sources reported by the Associated Press, the visibility and vulnerability of the Abrams to drone detection and attacks have significantly hindered their use by Ukrainian forces.

The newspaper notes that the US committed to sending 31 Abrams tanks to Ukraine in January of last year. This move was coordinated with Germany's agreement to transfer Leopard's main battle tanks and Britain's announcement of supplying Challenger's main battle tanks.

The strategy was to employ these Western tanks to break through the frontline as a part of the counteroffensive that started on June 4, 2023.

However, the counteroffensive has not met expectations, with the situation at the frontline becoming increasingly complex. The Russians expanded their use of reconnaissance and assault drones, presenting a significant threat to Ukrainian armored units.

The Ukrainian forces have lost 5 out of the 31 Abrams tanks received, including losses incurred during a retreat from Avdiivka. Thus, Washington and Kyiv are now considering new tactics for tank deployment in combat scenarios.

"We are collaborating with our Ukrainian partners and other allies to adapt our combat tactics," says Admiral Christopher Grady of the Joint Chiefs of Staff College. "Given the current scenario where battles occur in open areas under drone surveillance, concealing larger vehicles becomes a challenge," he added.

The US is on the brink of finalizing one of its largest military aid packages for Ukraine, with plans to sign contracts for arms and equipment for the Ukrainian Armed Forces. This update comes from Politico, citing two officials from the US administration.

This aid package, which could be announced as early as today, is part of the broader support initiative for Ukraine, valued at 61 billion dollars, authorized by President Joe Biden.