Additionally, the Russian military’s hasty invasion of Ukraine, with a lack of support units like artillery, electronic warfare, and air defense, left Russian tanks vulnerable. The fact that Russian tanks, particularly the T-80s, consume fuel at a faster rate due to their turbine engines, may also explain why many were left stranded.

Instead of looking solely at the tank, we should consider whether there is a better way to fulfill its role. Researchers have proposed mating a gun with an infantry fighting vehicle, similar to the Striker MGS, but it didn’t work out. Active protection systems could help, but they’re not suitable for all situations. Drones and aircraft can also be limited in their capabilities.

Ultimately, the question isn’t whether tanks are obsolete, but what can replace them in their current role. The answer is not straightforward, but it seems that new designs, such as light tanks like the General Dynamics Griffin 2 or China’s Type 15, which weigh much less than traditional main battle tanks, could be part of the solution.

The US, Russia, and China are all investing in new light tank designs, recognizing that different theaters require different solutions. This highlights the need for a tailored approach, as there is no one-size-fits-all solution. So, while Russian tanks may not be performing well in Ukraine, it’s unlikely that tanks themselves will become obsolete; instead, they will continue to evolve to meet the needs of different military scenarios.