According to US military officials, Ukraine has temporarily withdrawn the M1A1 Abrams main battle tanks provided by the United States from the front lines to counter the threat of Russian unmanned drones.
In January 2023, the United States provided Ukraine with 31 Abrams main battle tanks, with each tank costing about $10 million. The Ukrainian military had previously stated that these tanks were crucial for breaking through Russian defenses.
Reportedly, out of the 31 tanks, 5 have been lost in the war, and the remaining tanks have been pulled back from the front lines. The United States will collaborate with the Ukrainian forces to reassess their tactics.
Deputy Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Christopher Grady, confirmed this action along with an anonymous US defense official. Grady told the Associated Press this week, “Given the evolving nature of warfare, in an environment where unmanned systems are ubiquitous, large armored formations could be at risk.” He added that tanks remain significant.
“There is a way to fight in an environment where you can be discovered at any moment,” Grady said. “We will work with our Ukrainian partners and other local allies to help them adapt to this changing operational environment.”
The anonymous official also discussed the latest US assistance to Ukraine. A recent package of aid, including a $1 billion military assistance plan signed by President Biden on Wednesday, reflects a broader reorganization of the Ukrainian military to adapt to the evolving operational environment.
The $1 billion military aid emphasizes anti-drone capabilities, including specialized ammunition for anti-drone systems, additional air defense systems and ammunition, as well as a significant number of alternative low-cost vehicles like Humvees, Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicles, and Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles.
The official further revealed that the US is expected to announce approximately $6 billion in long-term military aid to Ukraine on Friday, including sought-after Patriot missile defense system ammunition.
According to Voice of America, US Department of Defense spokesperson Major Charlie Dietz confirmed that the US has provided Ukraine with the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) remote tactical ballistic missiles.
These tactical missiles have a range of up to 300 kilometers, nearly doubling the striking range of Ukrainian missiles. This capability allows Ukrainian forces to strike deep into Russian-occupied territories without exposing themselves to the threat of drones or Russian defensive installations.
The Ukraine Defense Liaison Group will convene on Friday. This alliance of about 50 countries meets monthly to assess Ukraine’s battlefield requirements and determine where the necessary ammunition, weapons, or maintenance can be sourced to ensure the equipment of the Ukrainian forces.