Tank Wars

Moyers Bill

2 min read

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05-04-2025

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Background: Tank warfare, a cornerstone of modern ground combat, is undergoing a significant transformation. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has starkly highlighted both the enduring relevance of tanks and the evolving challenges to their dominance. This analysis examines the shifting global landscape of tank warfare, focusing on key trends and implications for 2024 and 2025.

Discussion:

The past year has witnessed a dramatic resurgence in the importance of armored warfare. The Ukrainian conflict showcased the effectiveness of combined arms tactics, particularly the synergy between tanks and infantry supported by drones and precision-guided munitions. However, the war also exposed vulnerabilities, particularly to anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) and drones. This has spurred significant investments in countermeasures and technological upgrades.

Trend Table: Global Tank Production & Modernization (Estimated)

Analogy/Unique Metrics:

Think of the modern battlefield as a chessboard where tanks are powerful rooks, but vulnerable to strategically placed pawns (ATGMs) and knights (drones) capable of flanking maneuvers. The effectiveness of a tank depends increasingly on its integration within a broader network of sensors, communication systems, and supporting assets. A crucial metric to consider is the "kill ratio"—the number of enemy tanks destroyed per tank lost. This highlights the importance of both offensive and defensive capabilities.

Insight Box:

• Increased ATGM Proliferation: The widespread availability of relatively inexpensive and effective ATGMs poses a significant threat to tanks.
• Drone Warfare's Impact: Drones provide superior reconnaissance and targeting capabilities, dramatically increasing the effectiveness of ATGMs and other anti-tank weapons.
• Emphasis on Network-Centric Warfare: Future tank battles will be less about individual tank duels and more about the integration of tanks within a broader network of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance assets.
• Technological Advancements: Expect to see further developments in active protection systems (APS), improved tank armor, and enhanced situational awareness systems.

Actionable Recommendations:

• Investing in APS: Countries should prioritize the development and deployment of advanced active protection systems to mitigate the threat from ATGMs and RPGs.
• Enhancing Network Connectivity: Improving communication and data-sharing between tanks and other battlefield assets is critical for effective combined arms operations.
• Developing Counter-Drone Technologies: Investing in effective counter-drone technologies is essential to neutralize the threat posed by drones.
• Focus on Training and Doctrine: Military training programs must adapt to the changing realities of modern tank warfare, emphasizing combined arms tactics and network-centric operations.

Conclusion:

The future of tank warfare is not about the obsolescence of tanks, but about their evolution and adaptation. The trends discussed above indicate a continuing need for robust armored fighting vehicles, but also highlight the importance of innovation, technological advancement, and effective integration within a modern, networked battlefield. The coming years will likely witness a continuation of these trends, shaping the future of ground combat for decades to come.

(Note: The numerical data presented above are estimates based on publicly available information from reputable defense analysis sources. Precise figures are often classified or difficult to obtain with complete accuracy.)