Russia is likely considering sending a small number of newly manufactured T-14 Armata tanks to Ukraine. That is the prognosis of British intelligence, according to the latest report on the situation in Ukraine, published by the Ministry of Defense in London.
This prediction is confirmed by images from late December 2022 showing “the T-14 at a training area in southern Russia: the site was associated with pre-deployment activities for the Ukraine operation.”
“Previously, the report continues, “pro-government Russian media claimed that the T-14s were being prepared for deployment. However, it is unclear whether Russia has already transferred the assets to Ukraine.”
However, the report notes that “any deployment of T-14s to Russia is likely to be a high-risk decision.” “In eleven years of development, the program has been dogged by delays, reductions in the size of the originally planned fleet and reports of production problems.” Russia should then “adjust the logistics chain to handle the T-14s, which are larger and heavier than other Russian tanks”.
“Should Russia use the T-14, it will likely be primarily for propaganda purposes. Production is likely in the tens and commanders are unlikely to trust the vehicle in combat,” the report concludes.