Drone video released by Russian sources allegedly shows the blowout panels on an M1A1 Abrams main battle tank being triggered. While the video itself is very rough, the signature flames that are seen shooting from the rear of the vehicle are highly indicative of the blowout panels being activated to save the crew from an ammunition cook-off.

The picture in the thumbnail was taken by a Russian drone pilot following the attack, claiming that the tank was a catastrophic kill. Unfortunately for the Russians, it takes a lot more than the blowout panels being activated and the crew abandoning the vehicle for it to be a true catastrophic kill. If recovered, and delivered to depot level maintenance, it's highly likely that this tank could be repaired and returned to service. That entirely hinges on the Ukrainians ability to recover the over-extended armor before the Russians forces in the region can drop dozens of additional FPV drones and grenades into it.

About the Author

Josh Brooks

Josh is an American writer and former USMC machine gunner with eight years of experience in ground combat arms throughout the GWOT. He is currently based in Texas and specializes in combat footage analysis and digital marketing.Follow Josh at OfficialJoshBrooks.com