Satellite images reveal a worrying sign at a Russian base: Russia is short on its best tanks
The reintroduction of rusted tanks after decades of outdoor storage is the latest evidence of the Russian army’s demilitarization process.
According to satellite images, the T-72A tanks moved to the Uralvagonzavod base in Nizhny Tagil are nearly 50 years old and are gradually disappearing. Most had been stored in open-air depots, raising questions about their technical condition. Being exposed to the elements—cold, heat, ice, rain, snow—casts doubt on their state both inside and out, and on their operational capabilities.
“This measure not only signals the depletion of Russia’s more modern armored vehicle arsenal but also underscores Moscow’s fundamental strategy on the front: compensating for technological inferiority with overwhelming numerical superiority,” Defense Romania explains.
The outlet adds that the T-72A tanks could only pose a threat to Ukrainian tanks of similar age in close-range combat. However, such vehicles are relatively scarce, as they are being replaced by Western tanks. Even the older models, like the Leopard 2A4 and Leopard 1A5, have greater offensive capabilities than the T-72A.
The return to service of these rusted tanks after decades of outdoor storage is the latest proof of the Russian army’s demilitarization process. The quality of heavy equipment is systematically declining, forcing a shift in combat strategies.
Military experts warn that it would be a mistake to assume Russia is on the verge of defeat. The Kremlin compensates for the lack of modern technology with a manpower-based strategy. Currently, Russian regiments in Ukraine attack primarily on foot or using motorcycles, Defense Romania concludes. As seen on social media last month, this is evident in the growing number of videos showing attacks with modified Ladas, UAZ Bukhankis, motorcycles, golf cart–like vehicles, and even bicycles or electric scooters.
This so-called “bathtub” setup could allow a motorcycle to carry a soldier who can fire while moving. Theoretically, it is also possible to transport three soldiers on such a motorcycle, two of whom could target FPV drones with rifles.
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