In a recent conflict in northeastern Ukraine, a single Ukrainian cluster shell disrupted a Russian assault group riding on tanks, exposing the risks of the practice known as “tank desant.” The video footage, captured by a Ukrainian soldier, vividly portrays the moment the cluster shell, likely an American-made DPICM, exploded overhead, scattering submunitions and forcing the Russian infantry off their tanks.
Photo from Forbes
Losses in Tank Desant Tactic
The video highlights the dangers of “tank desant,” where infantry rides atop tanks for quick deployment. The U.S. Army had previously warned about the vulnerability of this tactic, sacrificing infantry protection.
Russian forces heavily rely on tank desant due to the threat of mines, especially with their vulnerable BMP fighting vehicles.
The loss rate of these vehicles has surged during the 23-month conflict in Ukraine, leaving Russian infantry exposed.
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Increasing Vulnerability and Tactics Shift
With diminishing BMP stocks and increasing losses, tank desant may become more common in Russian tactics, rendering assault groups vulnerable to cluster shells and explosive drones.
The scarcity of well-armored vehicles contributes to the vulnerability of Russian infantry, making them susceptible to defeat with just one well-placed shell.
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