Has an M1 Main Battle Tank Ever Been Destroyed by a T72?

The internet is rife with claims and counter-claims regarding the combat history of the M1 Abrams main battle tank, especially in relation to the T72. While many have asserted that an M1 was destroyed by a T72, the truth is often more complex and less definitive.

The Case Against the T72 Hidden Victory

Some sources, notably those with a bias, often claim that the Russians destroyed an M1 Abrams in Ukraine in a single shot. However, these claims are dubious and have not been widely verified. While the Russian military has indeed captured footage of several engagements in Ukraine, no definitive confirmation has been provided that an M1 was destroyed by a T72 specifically. The reliability of these claims is questionable, and the footage may not be foolproof evidence.

Other Incidents Involving Unknown Rounds

While not definitively attributed to a T72, there have been instances where an Abrams was destroyed by what was reported as an "unknown round." For example, during the Gulf War, an Abrams was destroyed when it was penetrated in the rear engine compartment by an indeterminate weapon. While this has raised eyebrows, the exact nature of the weapon still remains a mystery. The possibility that a T72 could have been involved is intriguing but unproven.

The Gulf War and Abrams Lost to T72s

The Gulf War saw the loss of several Abrams tanks to T72s, leading to speculation about the combat effectiveness of these tanks. The Saudi Arabia-led coalition lost around 20 Abrams export models, raising questions about their reliability in combat. Despite the losses, the T72's effectiveness in the Gulf War is still a topic of debate.

The Dispelling of T72 Mythology

Several factors contribute to the perception of T72s as potent opponents:

The T-72 is considered an outdated design. Modern variants such as the T-80 and T-90 have surpassed it in terms of technology and capabilities. T-72s are often engaged by anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) or rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) rather than other tanks, as they are not as frequently encountered on the battlefield. T-72s see less combat these days compared to more modern and advanced designs like the T-14.

Historically, the T72's armor and firepower were formidable, but they were no match for the advanced technology and ammunition of the M1 Abrams. Modern versions of the T72, such as the T-72B3, can hold their own better, but they still struggle against the M1 Abrams.

The Role of Ammunition and Armor

The primary reason for the disparity in tank combat is the ammunition used. The M1 Abrams uses depleted uranium (DU) shells, which are highly effective against heavy armored vehicles like the T72. These shells bore through armor, sometimes detaching the turret entirely. Despite the T72's armor being relatively strong, particularly in certain areas, the M1's DU rounds could and did penetrate it.

During the Gulf War, the use of DU shells in tanks led to significant environmental contamination. Depleted uranium is highly radioactive and can pose long-term health risks to both soldiers and civilians. Despite the controversy, the effectiveness of DU ammunition in targeting T72 tanks cannot be denied.

Additionally, the T72's armor is not invincible. While it can withstand a certain amount of damage, it is less than the armor of the M1 Abrams in many critical areas. This difference in armor quality played a significant role in the combat outcomes of the Gulf War and subsequent engagements.

Limitations and Challenges

The M1 Abrams is a highly capable vehicle, but it is not impervious. In one notable incident during the Gulf War, an M1 tank became irretrievably bogged down. The US forces elected to destroy it rather than risk it falling into enemy hands. It took about 30 shots from other M1 tanks to completely destroy it. This incident highlights the importance of both the gun and the ammunition in tank combat.

Moreover, the armor and armor-piercing capabilities of the M1 Abrams can vary depending on the ammunition used. The latest variant, the M1A3, is equipped with advanced systems, including the M80A1E2 tank gun with advanced ammunition, which further enhances its combat effectiveness.

While the T72s and other older tanks may have been formidable in their time, they do not pose the same threat to the M1 Abrams in modern combat scenarios. The reliance on advanced technology and ammunition, combined with the superior armor of the M1, ensures that the M1 Abrams remains a dominant force in the battlefield.