A Ukrainian Leopard 2A4 tank crew has successfully eliminated an entire Russian armoured column consisting of five vehicles near Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region, according to the Operational-Strategic Grouping of Troops Khortytsia. The convoy, moving along a dirt road near a forested area, was caught off guard by the tank, which was strategically positioned in a nearby village. Using local buildings for cover, the Ukrainian crew engaged the Russian vehicles with precision fire.
According to the official statement, the tank hit multiple enemy vehicles, ensuring their complete destruction. The ambush was executed by Ukraine’s 33rd Separate Mechanised Brigade, which continues to play a key role in frontline operations.
The Leopard 2A4, originally produced in the late 1980s, remains a vital asset for Ukraine’s armed forces. As part of a Western military aid programme, Ukraine has received more than 100 Leopard 2A4 and 2A6 models from allies such as Germany, Spain, Poland, Finland, Sweden, Norway, the Netherlands, and Portugal. Additionally, hundreds of refurbished Leopard 1A5 tanks have also been delivered.
The Leopard 2A4 is armed with a 120mm Rh120 smoothbore gun capable of firing high-precision kinetic energy rounds. It features an advanced digital fire control system that calculates target movement, range, and projectile trajectory, allowing for exceptional accuracy. Equipped with a dual-axis stabilised gunner’s sight (EMES-15) with thermal imaging, laser rangefinding, and 12x magnification, the tank provides superior targeting capability day and night. The commander’s panoramic sight (PERI-R17) allows for 360-degree situational awareness, giving the crew a tactical advantage.
The tank is powered by a 1,500-horsepower MTU MB873 diesel engine, enabling speeds of up to 72 km/h (45 mph). Although earlier Leopard 2A4 models had standard composite armour, Ukrainian modifications have strengthened their protection, including the addition of Kontakt-1 explosive reactive armour to counter modern anti-tank threats.
Since their first combat deployment in Ukraine’s summer counteroffensive of 2023, Leopard tanks have demonstrated their effectiveness in both defensive and offensive operations. Their superior firepower and advanced targeting systems have given Ukrainian forces a crucial edge against Russian armoured units.
External Video: Leopard 2A4 Shows Its Power: Russian Vehicles Left in Flames
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