TechUkrainian army deploys realistic tank decoys to mislead Russia

Ukrainian army deploys realistic tank decoys to mislead Russia

The Ukrainian army has begun using highly detailed mock-ups of German Leopard 2A6 tanks on a larger scale. The Defense Romania portal describes this as a "phantom army of tanks," portraying them as a solution that presents significant challenges for the Russians.

Model of a Leopard 2A6 tank in Ukraine
Model of a Leopard 2A6 tank in Ukraine
Images source: © X, @archer83able

This isn't the first time Ukrainians have employed mock-ups of Western weapons. The concept has been around for many months, and reports from the front lines appearing on social media have confirmed that Russians have already been deceived by decoys imitating self-propelled howitzers, Leopard 2A4 tanks, or anti-aircraft systems.

Realistic Leopard 2A6 tank mock-ups

The latest photos reveal mock-ups of German Leopard 2A6 tanks. The Defense Romania portal notes that they feature a very realistic and detailed design. Some mock-ups even have a metal structure with mounted wheels, providing greater durability and allowing for easier positioning in selected locations.

These types of decoys have a specific purpose: to mislead the Russians. By diverting their attention and forces to the decoys, the Russians waste ammunition or drones, while the real Ukrainian equipment remains undetected. This strategy helps the defending army save weapons and protect soldiers. There have been instances where Russians allocated multiple drones to Ukrainian equipment mock-ups, not only the cheapest FVP drones but also the more valuable Zala Lancet ones.

Leopard 2A6 is an important target for the Russians

According to Defense Romania, these types of decoys also enhance the effectiveness of the information war conducted by the Ukrainians. They create confusion among the Russians, mislead them, compel more thorough target verification, and can influence their operational decision-making.

The preparation of Leopard 2A6 mock-ups is likely not accidental. These are the latest NATO tanks Ukraine received from Western allies. Destroying each unit is a victory for the Russians both operationally and in terms of propaganda. One captured Leopard 2A6 tank was transported to the Uralvagonzavod factory in Nizhny Tagil last year.

The Leopard 2A6 differs from its predecessors by featuring a longer gun (Rheinmetall Rh-120 L/55), improved optronics, and the ability for the crew to operate in hunter-killer mode. It also boasts reinforced armor, significantly superior to that of the older Leopard 2A4 or Leopard 1A5 tanks, which are also part of the Ukrainian inventory.

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