Rebel formations of the Tigray People's Liberation Front continue to use captured armored vehicles, including tanks of various models, in battles against Ethiopian government forces.
The TDF are also utilizing captured tanks in fighting. This one from Wegel Tena. A T-55. pic.twitter.com/N6VFF8b0Iv
— Ethiopia Map (@MapEthiopia) October 18, 2021
So, in recent clashes in the area near the city of Vegel-Tena in Amhara State, a T-55 medium tank was seen, which was modernized at one of the defense enterprises.
The main external difference between such combat vehicles from the original version are reinforced over-track shelves, creating additional protection of the hull? and the side screens covering the undercarriage.
Mounted dynamic protection of the front of the hull and turret was installed on some part of the "fifty-fifths", as well as Chinese 12.7 mm Type 85 anti-aircraft machine guns.
However, the sample shown in the video did not have time to get "reactive armor", and during intensive operation, almost nothing remained of the on-board screens.
Interestingly, instead of regular spare fuel tanks, conventional barrels with diesel fuel are used.
In recent days, the rebels reported the seizure of two Chinese-made Type 89 tracked armored personnel carriers and a wheeled WZ-551 purchased in China, as well as the destruction of two T-62 and T-55 of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces.
The Tigray Media House has released new footage showing captures from the ENDF (likely in Afar judging by terrain)
Many HMGs were captured along with at least 1, possibly 2 Type 89 APCs. Also captured is a fuel/water truck and a WZ-551. pic.twitter.com/nZgR0wwz7j
— Ethiopia Map (@MapEthiopia) October 18, 2021
Alexey Brusilov
