Based on images viralized on social networks, has noticed how the M1A1 tanks of the Ukrainian Armed Forces have begun to be equipped with Kontakt-1 reactive armor blocks (ERA) in order to increase their survivability on the battlefield. The news comes after several hard blows received by Ukrainian armored units at the hands of the Russian Ground Forcesrecording the destruction and capture of several examples of Western tanks, among which are those of American origin.
In the photograph widely disclosed in previous days, one can see how one of the M1A1 tanks of the Ukrainian Armed Forces has been fitted and modified on its front to carry additional Kontakt-1 reactive armor blocks (ERA). . The practice by Ukrainian crews is widespread throughout the conflict. To date, other Western tank models such as the Leopard 2A4 have also been equipped with this armor reinforcement on both their front and sides.
As expressed on that occasion, when the first Leopards equipped with this reactive armor came to light, it is necessary to indicate that “…that ERA armor blocks were designed to improve defense and mitigate the effects of penetrating anti-tank munitions, such as HEAT and armor-piercing projectiles, as well as explosive charges of anti-tank missiles. Basically, the ERA brick detonates upon impact before the projectile reaches the tank hull, generating an effect that minimizes the effects of the deflagration.”.
Returning to the M1A1 seen in the photographs, it can be seen that the Kontakt-1 is not the only reactive armor with which it is equipped, since on its side the presence of the M-19 ARAT reactive armor side kits can be seen, which, presumably, were transferred as part of the package sent to Ukraine consisting of 31 M1A1SA.
This version of the Abrams is called Situational Awareness (SA), incorporating features from previous versions of the armored vehicle. More precisely, the M1A1 AIM, which consisted of tanks reconditioned and equipped with new FLIR sensors and target finders, and communications equipment (such as the FBCB2) in order to improve the situational awareness of the crews.
However, despite the reinforcements in the armor, like many armored vehicles, both Western and Russian, the M1A1 has seen its action limited compared to the action of artillery and unmanned aerial vehicles used massively by the Russian Ground Forces. This caused, according to American sources, that the Ukrainian Abrams had to be withdrawn from the front in order to be preserved. However, as reported by Russian media, this did not prevent the destruction and capture of several units.. One of them was recently exhibited in Moscow along with various captured Western material, among which were also found a Leopard 2A6 tank and M2A2 Bradley ODS-SA infantry fighting vehicles.
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