By John Q. Hosedrinker 
A German-led consortium has delivered 103 Leopard 1A5 tanks to Ukraine, exceeding initial expectations. These tanks, while older models, are crucial for equipping newly formed Ukrainian brigades, as other Western tanks are already assigned. Despite their lighter armor, mitigated by upgrades, the Leopard 1A5s boast reliable firepower and have suffered minimal losses. The continued delivery of these tanks, alongside other military aid, will significantly bolster Ukraine’s fighting capacity.
Read the original article here
It Took Nearly Two Years, But Large Numbers Of German-Made Leopard 1 Tanks Are Finally Arriving In Ukraine
The arrival of significant numbers of Leopard 1 tanks in Ukraine, after a delay of almost two years, marks a substantial development in the ongoing conflict. This influx of mobile firepower, regardless of the age of the tanks, represents a crucial addition to Ukraine’s war effort, particularly in areas where entrenched Russian forces have not had the time to fortify their positions.
These tanks offer a potent combination of mobility and firepower, proving their utility even in a war characterized by attrition. Their deployment echoes the success observed with Abrams tanks, which have been notably effective in active combat scenarios. The observed success of these older NATO tanks against Soviet-era equipment underscores the continued relevance of armored vehicles, even if not the latest models, on the battlefield. Their presence poses a serious threat to infantry lacking adequate anti-tank weaponry.
The deployment of these Leopard 1 tanks is not without its critics. Concerns regarding their vulnerability to modern anti-tank weapons, such as drones and anti-tank guided missiles, are certainly valid. Videos showing Leopard 1s being damaged or destroyed are readily available online. However, it’s crucial to consider that these are often isolated incidents captured on camera. We don’t see the numerous engagements where the tanks successfully achieve their objectives – disabling enemy armor, disrupting assaults, and providing crucial reconnaissance.
The fact that these Leopard 1s are reaching the front lines now, in large numbers, suggests that their overall utility outweighs these potential risks. Ukraine’s military is demonstrably capable of employing them strategically, minimizing exposure to the weapons systems that pose the biggest threat. Their mobility allows them to avoid prolonged engagements, utilizing hit-and-run tactics to maximize their effectiveness while minimizing losses.
Furthermore, the argument that these are “obsolete” tanks overlooks their capabilities in the current context. The Leopard 1 possesses strong optics and a capable gun, allowing it to effectively engage targets at range. Its mobility is also a significant advantage in a dynamic battlefield. The cost of these tanks is also a factor; their relatively low price point allows Ukraine to deploy a large number of them, bolstering its overall armored strength. The argument also overlooks the psychological impact; the mere presence of tanks on the battlefield can significantly impact enemy morale.
These tanks are not invincible, and they certainly aren’t a panacea for Ukraine’s military challenges. The role of tanks in modern warfare has evolved beyond mere brute force; reconnaissance capabilities, supported by advanced sensors and the ability to absorb fire, have become equally important. Their ability to carry out recon-by-fire is of immense value, allowing Ukrainian forces to probe enemy positions, draw fire, and identify targets before committing infantry.
The deployment of Leopard 1s also contributes to broader logistic considerations. In a war where logistics play a crucial role, these tanks can disrupt enemy supply lines, target lighter vehicles, and generally deter movement, thus providing crucial support for the overall war effort. The significant difference between the Russian and Ukrainian capacity for logistics favors Ukraine’s deployment of these assets.
Finally, dismissing these tanks as simply expensive targets for drones overlooks the strategic value of their addition to the Ukrainian arsenal. While individual tanks may be lost, their overall contribution to the battlefield is multifaceted and extends far beyond simply destroying enemy armor. While the cost of anti-tank weapons like Javelins is very high, a Leopard 1 can fire significantly more shots for the same amount of money. A tank’s role is not merely to be indestructible but to fulfill the requirements of mobility, reconnaissance, and fire support.
In conclusion, the arrival of a large number of Leopard 1 tanks in Ukraine, after nearly two years of delay, represents a significant boost to the country’s war effort. While not without their limitations and vulnerabilities, their capabilities in mobility, firepower, and reconnaissance, coupled with their strategic deployment, make them a valuable asset. Concerns over their vulnerability to modern weapons should be balanced against their proven effectiveness and their overall contribution to the conflict. The tanks’ arrival offers a much-needed enhancement to Ukraine’s capabilities, potentially impacting the future course of the war.