In January 2023, the United States made the decision to send 31 Abrams M1A1 main battle tanks to Ukraine. However, the tanks were withdrawn from the front lines due to difficulties in protecting them from Russian surveillance aircraft. The weakened air defense of Ukraine hinders their ability to shoot down Russian airplanes, making the tanks vulnerable targets for the Russians.
According to experts, withdrawing the tanks was a result of inadequate support from Ukraine’s western allies. Without effective air defense, keeping tanks on the front lines would be futile, as they can easily be detected and targeted by Russia. Although withdrawing the tanks weakens Ukraine’s defense capabilities in battles, it does not necessarily provide Russia with an immediate opportunity to advance.
To bring the tanks back to the front lines, Ukraine must improve its ability to counter Russian drone warfare. The United States is currently working with Ukraine to find a solution to this issue. In the meantime, the tanks remain vital assets in the fight against Russia, but must be strategically protected to prevent their destruction.