Introduction

The recent conflicts in Ukraine have sparked numerous debates about the number of tanks and armor vehicles lost by both Russian and Ukrainian forces. This article aims to provide a clear and comprehensive analysis, debunking common myths and providing an accurate assessment of the situation on the ground.

Confirmed Tank Losses of Ukraine

As of July 20, 2022, the visual confirmation of Ukrainian tank losses shows a significant number of armored vehicles that have either been destroyed or captured. Official records list a total of 140 tanks destroyed and 100 tanks captured. However, it is important to note that there have been unconfirmed reports suggesting losses could be much higher, ranging from "few" to "most of them."

Notable Ukrainian Tank Losses

Several notable Ukrainian tanks lost in the conflict include:

T-64B1M - Originally intended for export to Congo, this tank was never exported and was instead sent to the National Guard. It has seen significant losses due to modifications and combat scenarios. T-64BVK Commander Tank - Modernized in 2021, this variant has faced substantial losses during the war. T-72M1 - Licensed production from Eastern Europe, supplied in the spring of 2022, these tanks have suffered heavy losses. T-72AG - A proposed export modification that combines elements of T-72, T-80UD, and T-84, this variant has also seen significant losses. T-72AMT - The latest Ukrainian modernization of the T-72, these tanks have faced severe combat conditions. T-64BM2 - A 2021 modernization of the T-64, this variant has also seen high attrition.

Independent Sources and Analysis

For an independent perspective, an article published on Forbes on April 5, 2022, analyzed Russia's claims of Ukrainian tank losses. The article concludes that Russia was publicly claiming the destruction of 50 Ukrainian armored vehicles as of April 5, but the actual losses were likely much lower, ranging from 5 to 10 vehicles. This suggests that the discrepancy between reported and actual losses could be substantial.

Current Tank Operations and Capabilities

According to more recent data, Ukraine has gained approximately 1586 additional armored vehicles. This brings the total to 514 as of April 23, which is a significant increase for Ukrainian forces. It is highly likely that Ukraine has more tanks now than at the start of the war, indicating that losses may have been overstated.

Propaganda and Warfare

The context of the war includes significant propaganda efforts on both sides. Ukraine is known for its emphasis on showing military victories in the media, using platforms like news channels to boost morale and hint at further needs for support. However, very few videos depict Ukrainian armored battalions, suggesting a high level of attrition in frontline units.

The Russian Perspective

On the Russian side, the narrative is starkly different. Russia's military has faced significant setbacks, including the loss of an estimated 780 tanks, hundreds of aircraft, and a total military expenditure of nearly USD 7 billion. Additionally, over 20,800 Russian soldiers have been killed or wounded. Despite these substantial losses, Russia has managed to maintain its presence in Ukraine, indicating tactical success on the ground rather than on the international stage.

Conclusion

This analysis reveals that the number of tanks lost by Ukraine is likely much higher than commonly reported, and the discrepancy is likely due to various factors, including strategic misinformation and the realities of combat. As the war continues, it is crucial to assess and correct these misconceptions to better understand the true state of the conflict.