Ukraine and Russia Weld Tank Cages to Counter Drone Threat, Sacrificing Tank Design Advantages

The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia has pushed both nations to confront an evolved battlefield reality — the growing threat posed by drones. In a bid to mitigate the impact of drone strikes, both countries have resorted to implementing unconventional measures, including the welding of cages onto their tanks, a tactic reminiscent of medieval warfare.

As warfare continues to evolve, the introduction of UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) has revolutionized modern combat dynamics, making traditional armored vehicles more vulnerable than ever before. The traditional designs of Soviet-style tanks, known for their smaller size and lower profile, have offered some tactical advantages. However, the integration of drone technology has necessitated a reevaluation of these designs, compelling both Ukraine and Russia to devise alternative protective measures.

The welded cages, particularly with the more unusual designs, have stripped these tanks of one of their primary advantages — their low profile. While this trade-off may seem counterintuitive, especially considering the diminishing risk of tank-on-tank confrontations, the persistent threat posed by drones has made this an acceptable compromise in the eyes of Russian and Ukrainian military strategists.

The Drone Dilemma

In the face of mounting evidence showcasing the effectiveness of drones in executing precision strikes against armored vehicles, both Russian and Ukrainian forces have been compelled to reevaluate their protective strategies. The deployment of UAVs in combat zones has rendered traditional defenses inadequate, as evidenced by countless videos depicting drones devastatingly targeting vulnerable areas of armored vehicles.

The adoption of welded cages onto tanks and armored vehicles has become a response to the increasing prevalence of drone assaults. Notably, the appearance of these protective measures in the Ukrainian conflict can be traced back to mid-2023, when early photographs showcased Russian MT-LB and T-72B tanks fortified with large, irregular screens designed to thwart unmanned aerial vehicles.

Adaptation and Evolution of Designs

Since their initial introduction, the designs of these welded cages have undergone significant evolution, reflecting the increasing sophistication of modern warfare. What began as relatively crude modifications have transformed into sturdier and more effective protective mechanisms. This evolution is particularly evident in the case of Ukrainian forces, which have demonstrated ingenuity by integrating more robust and sophisticated screens onto their armored vehicles.