Why Russia Should Not Mass-Produce T-34 Tanks in a Modern War
As with any industrial endeavor, the path from signing an order to mass production is fraught with complexities, especially when it comes to the military sector. Russia's current strategy focuses on modern tanks over the production of T-34s. Let's explore the reasons behind this decision and the challenges associated with reviving T-34 tank production.
Production Challenges and Logistics
It's important to recognize that the journey from issuing a production order to obtaining a functional product involves numerous steps that require substantial resources and time. Currently, the United Tank Building Plant (UVZ) in Nizhny Tagil is fully engaged in producing more modern tanks. Any production that is not directly tied to the war effort has been temporarily halted. The estimates for peacetime production of tanks are around 30 per month. Investing in the production of T-34 tanks, which would essentially start from scratch, is not prioritized due to the limited resources.
Evaluating Tank Capabilities on a Modern Battlefield
According to expert analysis provided by "The Chieftain", a retired cavalry Lt. Colonel and respected commentator, there are three categories of tanks: Best, Medium, and Worst. Fielding a mixture of Best and Worst tanks is often advantageous over a mixture that includes Medium tanks. In terms of evaluation, The Chieftain categorizes tanks based on their firepower, maneuverability, and armor. He places great emphasis on modern thermal optics. Without this technology, a tank with a powerful gun is essentially a burning wreck.
The T-34, even when it was first introduced, was considered mediocre. Today, it is described as thoroughly obsolete. Later models of T-34 carried only an 85mm gun, which would easily be outmatched by current guns and missiles. The armor of the T-34 would also be vulnerable to modern weaponry. Additionally, the concept of upgrading the optics to thermal capacity is currently beyond the scope of feasibility.
Operational and Humanitarian Considerations
Even if production lines for T-34s were still active, Russia would have to start from scratch in reconstituting factories and tooling. The T-34 is already obsolete, and the gun it carries is not powerful enough to be truly effective. The armor it possesses would be outsized by contemporary weapons, and there would be no way to upgrade the optics to incorporate thermal technology.
Another significant challenge would be manpower. This not only includes the tank crews but also the workforce needed to operate and maintain the factories. Additionally, there would be a need for factories to produce component parts, ammunition, and other necessary supplies. The financial burden of such an endeavor would be immense, and Russia's current financial constraints make it an impractical option.
By the time Russia could build all these tanks, the war might already be over, particularly given the likely disruption to other Russian industries.
In conclusion, the decision to prioritize modern tanks over the mass production of T-34s is a strategic choice driven by practical and logistical factors. The modern battlefield demands advanced technology and capabilities that the T-34 simply cannot provide.