Western tanks in Ukraine face increased drone threats

Western-supplied tanks in Ukraine, including Leopard 2, M1 Abrams, and Challenger 2 models, are being used less frequently on the front lines. While these vehicles remain part of the military's equipment and crews continue training, many are being kept hidden in forests or garages to avoid detection.

The primary cause for this shift in tactics is the increased threat posed by reconnaissance and strike drones. These unmanned aerial vehicles allow for the rapid detection and tracking of heavy armored vehicles, enabling attacks on less protected sections of their armor. Although Ukrainian forces are attempting to install additional protective structures on the vehicles, these measures have not fully mitigated the risk.