At first blush, the idea of using stones as armor might seem laughable. However, there’s a long history of using improvised armor on the battlefield to counter unforeseen threats. In the past, armies have used everything from sandbags to spare tank tracks, even logs strapped to the side of tanks, to provide extra protection. These innovations often serve a dual purpose, such as helping get stuck vehicles out of the mud or serving as firewood or poles for tents.

In the case of the stone-filled cages, the protection they provide is likely to be minimal. At best, they might slightly increase the distance a shape charge needs to detonate, reducing its penetration. However, the cages are only 15 to 20 millimeters thick, which won’t offer much protection against anti-tank weapons. Nevertheless, any additional armor can only help to some degree, and it’s worth noting that even small gains in protection can be crucial in combat.

Using the stones as armor also has some potential drawbacks. For one, if the tank is hit, the stones could become projectiles, putting those nearby at risk. Furthermore, the tanks in question appear to have limited mobility, which might hinder their effectiveness on the battlefield.

Despite the serious doubts surrounding the effectiveness of this makeshift armor, it’s hard to dismiss the psychological benefits it might provide to the crew. Seeing this unconventional solution might give them a sense of security, allowing them to operate with greater confidence. In that sense, even the simplest forms of armor can be invaluable.

As for the Russians, it’s not the first time we’ve seen them employ improvised armor solutions, and they’re certainly not the only ones. In fact, the use of stones as armor is not new – it’s been used in combat before, including on Russian tanks. While it’s unlikely to revolutionize tank design, it’s a testament to the ingenuity of military engineers and a reminder that even the most advanced armor is never perfect.