"It's like comparing Żiguli and Mercedes. This is Mercedes." Ukrainians about Polish tanks.Of the more than 200 Polish tanks delivered to Ukraine, some are vehicles that have just been modified and thoroughly renovated. Some of their elements stand out from the standards of the Ukrainian battlefield, so the machines receive favorable reviews.
One of the former Polish T-72s was shown up close by a reporter from the Ukrainian channel 1 + 1. The machine belongs to one of the newly formed reserve units that have already been deployed in the Mykolaiv region in southern Ukraine. Most likely in preparation for an attempt to recapture Kherson.
This particular tank is a refreshed variant of the T-72, designated M1R. The effect of the contract from 2019, under which virtually all Polish T-72s were to be thoroughly renovated and slightly improved, i.e. in theory just over 300. In practice, it turned out that there are not so many machines suitable for renovation, because some of them were in poor condition. How many specifically qualified for the work has never been made public. Probably the range 150-200.
From the point of view of the Polish military, this does not matter anymore, because all serviceable T-72s, whether modified or not yet, went to Ukraine. There, they are primarily used to arm the newly created mechanized brigades as part of the mobilization. Probably enough for two or three of them. This is a significant help for which the Ukrainians are clearly grateful, judging by the number of positive comments about Polish tanks and Polish aid in a broader sense.
The Ukrainian tanker, speaking in an interview with a channel 1 + 1 reporter, seems to be pleased with the Polish gift. He emphasizes that compared to the Ukrainian tanks he knows, the Polish one has a better drive and a good thermal imaging camera, which enables combat at night. - Just like comparing Żiguli and Mercedes. And this is Mercedes, says the Ukrainian.
The new thermal imaging camera is undoubtedly the strongest point of the modified Polish T-72. This is the latest generation device, produced by the Polish company PCO, called Asteria and the designation KLW-1. Heaven and Earth compared to the old night observation systems known from the classic T-72 or T-64 that are the basis of the Ukrainian armored forces. It is very sensitive, making it possible to observe the terrain at night, even over a distance of several kilometers. Equipment of comparable quality is available only in the most modern Russian cars, which were modernized with French Thales thermal cameras. The T-72M1R was additionally replaced with a newer and passive driver's night vision device and an auxiliary sighting periscope. Overall, the tank's ability to fight at night has been significantly improved.
Among the most important changes, the T-72M1R also exchanged all communication, both internal and external between the crew. After the new antenna on the tank used by the Ukrainians, it can be concluded that the new communication was not removed before the handover. Like the Asteria camera, it also feels like heaven and earth compared to the standard Soviet devices found in the older T-72s.
It is difficult to say what the Ukrainian tanker is talking about when he talks about a stronger drive. Under the contract from 2019, there were no changes in this regard. These are the standard engines of the T-72 tanks, the W-46. Only a new digital start-up system was installed and most of the electrics were replaced. The engines have undergone major repairs and perhaps their very good condition makes them seem better for Ukrainians.
Gogo guys, get those Russians stopped 