TANK-TOPPLING mines, previously unseen in the field of war, have been discovered for the first time being used by the Russian military in Ukraine.
TANK-TOPPLING mines, previously unseen in the field of war, have been discovered for the first time being used by the Russian military in Ukraine.
According to an online weapons database, a PTKM-1R top-attack mine was discovered on Ukrainian land on April 26. Though the weapon was known to exist prior to the Ukraine war, this is the first time it has been recorded as being operationally deployed.
Before unleashing an explosive projectile, the sophisticated anti-tank weapon uses sensors to pinpoint its target.
According to Russian state military exporter Rosoboronexport (ROE), the weapon preys on current tanks’ one weakness: “its roof.”
The military technology intermediary argues that this section of tanks and armoured vehicles is their “Achilles’ heel,” which the PTKM-1R is designed to assault.
Unlike other mines, which normally explode beneath a vehicle passing over them, this top-attack mine can be placed up to 50 metres away from the target.
ROE says: “The PTKM-1R is capable of selecting what armoured vehicle to hit, it chooses only those equipment [sic] that meet the specified parameters in terms of noise and ground vibration.”
According to the ROE, the launcher has “acoustic and seismic sensors,” while the missile has “infrared and radar sensors” to find its target.
It adds: “When the target comes within 50m radius from the mine, the seismic sensor commands to launch the combat element.
“The combat element follows a ballistic trajectory and its sensors – thermal and radar – scan the earth’s surface.
“When the sensors detect the target the warhead is detonated and strikes the target from above.”
According to its specifications, the PTKM-1R carries 2.8kg of explosives and is capable of breaching armour by up to 7cm.
The “smart” weapon is thought to be capable of distinguishing between civilian and military vehicles.
According to the Telegraph, the Russian army first used the top-attack mine on duty in 2020.
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