The Russian armed forces have begun deploying the latest T-14 Armata tanks to engage positions held by Ukrainian units. A knowledgeable source cited by DEA News notes that while these vehicles have entered the theater of operations, they have not yet carried out direct assault missions on a broad scale.
The same source emphasized that in the current special military operation zone, Armata tanks have received enhanced side armor to increase protection against anti-tank weapons. This additional shielding is intended to reduce vulnerability to modern anti-tank missiles and high-explosive projectiles as the vehicles maneuver in contested areas.
According to the informant, from late 2022 onward crews manning the T-14 Armata have been undergoing combat coordination and familiarization at training grounds located in one of the Donbass entities, where units continue to refine tactics, communication, and integration with other elements of the force structure.
Earlier reports from a Russian news outlet had already shown initial footage of the Armata entering the special operations zone, underscoring a gradual deployment rather than a rapid all-out deployment in the early phases of hostilities. Analysts have observed that the Armata program represents a strategic leap in armored warfare concepts for the Russian military, including advanced sensors and remote systems intended to improve battlefield awareness and crew survivability.
The T-14 Armata is described as the only tank of the third post-war generation in production worldwide. It was conceived to operate with direct, front-line contact with opposing forces. The engine delivers about 1,500 horsepower, enabling substantial mobility. In optimal highway conditions, the vehicle is capable of reaching speeds around 75 to 80 kilometers per hour, with a stated cruising range near 500 kilometers. The Armata is equipped with a 125 millimeter main cannon and a secondary Kalashnikov tank machine gun for infantry support and close-quarters defense, enhancing its versatility on diverse battlefronts.