Eager Tanks Seek Nurturing Environment: Ukraine's M-55S Tanks Have Joined Their Fourth Unit in Two Years' Time
The Ukrainian military's worst Western-donated tanks, the ex-Slovenian M-55S, have had a tough stint, shifting between brigades for over two years without seeing significant combat. Now, these aging beasts have seemingly found a new batch of trainers in the 159th Mechanized Brigade.
Whether this inexperienced lot can put these tanks to good use remains to be seen. There are reasons to be dubious. Designed by the Soviets in the 50s and modernized by Slovenian companies in the 90s, the M-55S is a far cry from the cutting-edge tanks of today.
In 2022, Slovenia parted ways with 28 of these M-55S tanks in exchange for 40 German military trucks. With a top speed of 44 miles per hour and a stable British-made 105mm main gun, the M-55S could pack a punch, provided it didn't face up against a modern T-72.
However, the 200mm thick armor facing several modern threats falls short, which is precisely why Ukrainian commanders have been fielding these tanks with caution. After a series of transfers to the 47th Mechanized Brigade, the 67th Mechanized Brigade, and the 5th Tank Brigade, the M-55S tanks are now under the command of the 159th Mechanized Brigade.
This new brigade, one of 14 formations the Ukrainian ground forces raised last year, has been riddled with challenges. Analysts warned against creating new brigades at the expense of veteran units, fearing that these formations would be less experienced and less equipped for battle.
The 155th Mechanized Brigade, another fresh face in the Ukrainian military, disintegrated before it could even reach the front lines, a grim reminder of the risks involved in forming new brigades.
As the 159th Mechanized Brigade takes up the mantle, it's unclear whether the M-55S will find a lasting role in the brigade or if it will continue its nomadic existence. Only time will tell if the M-55S tanks have finally found their permanent home or if they will be shifting grounds again.
Despite Slovenia's donation of 28 M-55S tanks to Ukraine in 2022, replacing them with German military trucks, Russia has expressed concern over this transfer. This concern stems from the potential use of these ex-Slovenian tanks in Ukraine's conflict with pro-Russian forces in eastern Ukraine.
