Ukrainian soldiers commandeer Sweden's powerful Stridsvagn 122 tanks against Russia
Sweden's efforts have made the deployment of the Stridsvagn 122 tanks possible on the frontlines. According to many Ukrainians and experts alike, these are the most valuable tanks of this type that Kyiv currently possesses. "These are the best and most heavily armored tanks that Ukraine has," defense analyst Jarosław Wolski posted on the X service platform.
10:58 AM EST, February 9, 2024
Although various recordings of the Stridsvagn 122 in action in the war against Russia have been released, it is the first time the ammunition used by the Ukrainian soldiers has been showcased. They are using the DM-53 anti-tank missiles, a model that began production in the late 1990s.
Once launched, these missiles can achieve speeds of up to 1670 m/s (44-caliber gun) or even 1720 m/s (55-caliber gun), approximating 3730 mph (44-caliber gun) or 3846 mph (55-caliber gun).
Stridsvagn 122 in Ukraine. What kind of ammunition does it use?
According to prior reports, the Ukrainian defense forces have amassed DM-53A1 missiles, the most advanced variant of this missile, integrating features from the more advanced DM63 missile. These missiles can effectively disable modern, heavily armored tanks, including those with dual-layer reactive armor, similar to the T-80BWM and T-90M used by the Russians, also known as "Putin's pride".
Sweden's Military Contribution
Stridsvagn 122 tanks were manufactured from 1994 to 2001. They are based on the German Leopard 2A5 tanks but feature several unique design changes that enhance their operational capabilities.
Stridsvagn 122 tanks are more robust with reinforced roofs, hull sides, and sturdier fuel tanks. They possess an advanced fire control system, akin to the one in the Leopard 2A6 than the Leopard 2A5, and they also feature the Tank Command and Control System (TCCS).
Similar to Leopard 2A5 tanks, the primary weapon in the Stridsvagn 122 is the smooth-bore L/44 cal. 120 mm gun. In addition, the Stridsvagn 122 crew has access to two 7.62 mm machine guns and an 80.5 mm smoke grenade launcher. Despite weighing more than its German prototype, approximately 66139 lbs, the Stridsvagn 122 powered by a 1500 HP engine, can reach a top speed of approximately 43 mph (70 km/h).
