Russia may deploy new Armata tanks to Ukraine for propaganda purposes – British intelligence

KYIV. Jan 19 (Interfax-Ukraine) – The Russian occupiers are likely considering stationing a small number of their new T-14 Armata main battle tanks in Ukraine, according to a defense intelligence report by the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Ministry of Defense on Twitter on Thursday morning.

"In late December 2022, imagery showed T-14s on a training areas in southern Russia:the site has been associated with pre-deployment activity for the Ukraine operation. This followed pro-government Russia media outlets claiming T-14s were being prepared for deployment. However, it is unclear whether Russia has yet moved the type into Ukraine," the defense intelligence said.

At the same time, intelligence notes that any deployment of such tanks in Ukraine is likely to be a risky decision for the Russian Federation and, if carried out, but for propaganda purposes.

"Eleven years in development, the programme has been dogged with delays, reductions in planned fleet size, and reports of manufacturing problems. An additional challenge for Russia is adjusting its logistics chain to handle T-14 because it is larger and heavier than other Russian tanks. If Russia deploys T-14 it will likely primarily be for propaganda purposes. Production is probably only in the low tens, while commanders are unlikely to trust the vehicle in combat," the defense intelligence said.