More footage from the 3rd Assault Brigade, which means that this occurred somewhere near Bakhmut. A lone Russian tank is struck by an unknown munition. Given that the tank is stationary when the strike occurs, I doubt that mines are the cause. Though no effects can be seen on the outside of the tank, there is clearly damage within, and the crew begins to bail out. The tank commander (TC) flees to the tree line but returns when he sees the driver climb out of the vehicle in flames and begin to run around in circles. A grotesque chase ensues as the TC attempts to wrestle his driver to the ground to extinguish the flames. Eventually the tank is shown brewing up as the fuel and ammunition ignite and consume the vehicle from within.

This is yet another example of the poor design of Russian and Soviet tanks. Not only is the tank a total loss, but in this case at least one crew member is killed or severely injured. Though we have seen footage of damaged Leopards, we see no indication of this type of catastrophic kill.

About the Author

Cam

Cam served as an infantry officer in the Marine Corps, deploying to the Horn of Africa and participating in combat operations in Iraq. He currently works in the maritime industry and in the defense sector as an instructor of combined arms planning and operations. An avid sailor, Cam founded and directs a nonprofit that supports veterans and first responders through sailing.