A Russian T-62M tank survived 13 drone attacks and returned from battle under its own power, thanks to reinforced protection, including a combination of rubber and metal shielding.
The tank, deployed in the Krasnolimansk direction as part of Russia’s special military operation, was frequently targeted by enemy drones, including a recent swarm of FPV drones.
Despite the tank's electronic warfare system being destroyed by mortar fire, the crew managed to prevent major damage. "The tank was burning a little, but nothing serious. We prevented everything. When we were in a safer zone, we put out the tank," commander with the call sign Modny was quoted as saying by Russian defense ministry’s Zvezda.
The rubber covering, combined with traditional metal armor, played a key role in the tank's survival. According to the crew, the rubber effectively absorbed impacts from drone-launched shells, preventing any penetrations. The tank is equipped with additional protection installed by a repair unit working near the combat line, with each vehicle receiving custom modifications.
The use of this reinforced protection has been tested and proven effective in various combat scenarios, allowing the tank to continue operating after multiple drone strikes, the report said.