Why Ukraine won't target Russia's outdated tank stockpiles
For decades, a significant number of post-Soviet tanks have been stationed in the open at several bases across Russia. However, the Ukrainians are not attacking them. Why is this? A detailed analysis was conducted by the Covert Cabal channel on YouTube.
Most of the post-Soviet military equipment, including tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, and artillery systems, is located at bases throughout Russia. However, there has never been an attempt to attack such locations. An analysis on this topic was conducted by an OSINT analyst (from open-source intelligence - gathering information from publicly available sources) running the popular Covert Cabal channel on YouTube.
Distance and range limitations
As Covert Cabal points out, one of the main challenges for the Ukrainians is the distance that separates Russian bases from the borders with Ukraine. Most of these bases are located beyond the Urals, making them beyond the reach of Ukrainian weapons.
Western allies, such as the USA, have provided Ukraine with ATACMS missiles with a range of up to 190 miles, and the United Kingdom and France with Storm Shadow/SCALP-EG missiles with a range of up to 310 miles.
Alternative methods of attack
Theoretically, Ukraine could use long-range drones, which have been effective in attacks on Russian refineries. However, as Covert Cabal points out, the bases with tanks are more challenging to destroy, and drones are too valuable to risk in such operations. In these cases, a mass drone attack would be necessary, which is too costly for Ukraine.
The technical condition of Russian equipment
Additionally, many of the Russian tanks need repairs before being deployed to the front. Old tanks stationed in the open air are in poor technical condition, making them less valuable targets. Consequently, Ukraine focuses on more strategic facilities, such as refineries.
