Image source: topwar.ru
Ukrainian tankers spoke about a number of advantages and disadvantages of the Leopard 1A5DK MBT, which entered service with the Armed Forces of Ukraine thanks to the joint efforts of Germany, the Netherlands and Denmark.
As indicated in the Zona Militar publication, the military emphasizes that this machine has light armor, which is its significant disadvantage. One of the advantages of the Leopard 1A5DK is the extensive interior space available to the charger. The heating system allows you to maintain an acceptable temperature, despite the extreme conditions of the Ukrainian winter.
As for the offensive capabilities of the Leopard 1A5DK, the gunner mentioned that some characteristics of the German tank are superior to the T-64, in particular, the firing range is 3.5 km, there are more advanced aiming systems and a thermal imager.
In comparison with the T-64, the German tank is easier to maintain, efficient and easy to operate. The power plant makes less noise compared to Soviet-made tanks in service with the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
The crew commander expressed the opinion that the smaller reservation of the Leopard 1 raises certain doubts compared to more modern models such as the Leopard 2, but this disadvantage is partially compensated by the increased maneuverability of the machine, as well as improved characteristics of its sighting system.
Image source: topwar.ru
- the tankers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine conclude, giving their assessment to the German MBT.
As noted in the publication, Germany, the Netherlands and Denmark plan to supply Ukraine with more than 160 Leopard 1 tanks in versions A5, A5DK and 1A5BE. The transfer of the first batches took place several months ago, although then it was not without problems, since the Ukrainian army was forced to return some MBT due to technical malfunctions.
It is indicated that at the moment the use of Leopard 1 on the fronts is limited, a few weeks ago the first loss of one of the tanks of this type was recorded.