While Ukraine’s 2000-model M-1A1 Abrams tanks may not offer the same level of protection as the latest M-1A2 models used by the U.S. Army, they stand out as some of the most enhanced versions on the battlefield.
After 15 grueling months on some of the most intense battlefronts in Ukraine, the elite 47th Mechanized Brigade finally departed from the eastern front early last month for a much-needed respite. Along with them, they brought back the remaining M-1 Abrams tanks assigned to their sole battalion, which had received critical upgrades.
A video shared by the 47th Mechanized Brigade around October 7 showcased their upgraded tanks in training exercises. The 69-ton M-1s are equipped with U.S.-made reactive armor on the sides, Ukrainian-made reactive armor on the turrets, and locally produced anti-drone cage armor, as well as radio jammers designed to disrupt UAV operations.
The 2000-model M-1A1 Situational Awareness tanks sent to Ukraine may not be the most well-protected Abrams tanks—that distinction belongs to the U.S. Army’s latest M-1A2 models—but they are among the most extensively modified. These upgrades are specifically designed to counter two significant threats: anti-tank missiles and suicide drones.
The tanks feature reactive armor that detonates upon impact to deflect missile warheads, along with cage armor and jammers that disrupt and neutralize UAV attacks.As these enhancements are rolled out, the 47th Mechanized Brigade is focused on maximizing the lifespan of its remaining tanks. While the U.S. has supplied hundreds of M-2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicles to ensure that the brigade’s assault units remain modernized, it has not provided any replacement M-1 tanks.
The initial shipment of 31 Abrams delivered to Ukraine a year ago remains the only commitment from Washington, despite the availability of thousands of these tanks in U.S. storage facilities.The exact number of M-1 tanks still operational within the 47th Mechanized Brigade is unclear. Analysts from Oryx Intelligence have reported six Abrams as destroyed and eight as damaged or abandoned. While tank units typically attempt to recover and repair vehicles that can’t be moved, it’s challenging to ascertain how many abandoned Abrams the brigade has managed to retrieve, given that they primarily served as a rear guard in eastern Ukraine throughout the winter and into early fall.Estimates suggest that the 47th Mechanized Brigade could have anywhere from 17 to 25 M-1s remaining.
Regardless, it can be assumed that all operational tanks are now equipped with additional armor and electronic jamming systems.If the brigade is to receive more Abrams tanks, they may not come from the U.S. but rather from Australia. Although the U.S. has not indicated any plans to send additional tanks, Australia is reportedly contemplating sending 59 recently decommissioned M-1A1SA tanks to Ukraine.With these additional 59 Abrams, the 47th Mechanized Brigade could bolster its existing tank battalion and potentially establish a second one. Until such support arrives, however, the remaining 17 to 25 of Ukraine’s original 31 M-1s will need to continue their fight on their own.
