Ukrainian Soldier Serhiy Talks About Engaging Russian Tank In A Bradley Fighting Vehicle
In an interview with the Ukrainian TCH media, a Ukrainian soldier identified as “Serhiy” shared his firsthand account of engaging a heavily armored Russian T-90M tank while commanding a Bradley Fighting Vehicle. The soldier, who had recently returned to Ukraine from Bradley training in Germany, described the harrowing experience and the tactics he employed in the face of danger.
Serhiy, who was also the commander of the vehicle, recounted that he and his driver, Oleksandr, had only been on their second mission together. Members of the 47th Separate Mechanized Brigade, their primary objective was to protect troops in a trench under fire from Russian tanks.
The soldier highlighted the inherent risk of going up against a T-90M, Russia’s most advanced frontline tank, with the Bradley’s 25mm chain gun. He admitted that the situation was daunting, but expressed confidence in their performance.
Serhiy described the intensity of having a tank in his sights, likening it to a moment from his training, where he had expressed the desire to never encounter a tank. He emphasized the crucial role his driver played in the operation, downplaying his own importance in comparison.
Stating that they had to gather the courage to engage the tank after the failure of a previous team, Serhiy took over the task of attacking the tank. He recalled encountering a problem with the rounds and credited his experience with video games for helping him remember how to effectively target the tank.
The soldier elaborated on the weak points of armored vehicles, including tanks, which video games had taught him to target. He shared that when they encountered issues with the anti-armor, he resorted to blinding the tank by destroying its optics, ultimately eliminating it from the mission.
Prior to his role as a crew member in the Bradley, Serhiy had been in the infantry, while Oleksandr had driven cars for a supply unit. The interview took place at an ad hoc roadside maintenance area in Avdiivka, with mechanics working on the damaged Bradleys in the background.
The immense capabilities of the Bradley Fighting Vehicle were applauded by Serhiy and Oleksandr, who both praised the vehicle’s ability to disrupt the enemy’s plans. They acknowledged that the threats from Russia’s ongoing invasion meant that they would likely face another encounter soon.
The journalist also noted that another Bradley passing by had visible damage from a nearby mine explosion, with the mechanics likening their rapid repair process to that of F1 cars. The extent of the damage and the ongoing operational challenges highlighted the significant risks faced by the Ukrainian soldiers.
As Russia shows no signs of backing down from its invasion, the firsthand account of Serhiy serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of Ukrainian soldiers in the face of overwhelming odds.
The soldier’s account sheds light on the critical role played by technology, training, and tactics in modern warfare, and highlights the urgent need to support and equip Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression.
For more information, contact the author at howard@thewarzone.com.
