Ukraine strikes factory producing missile microchips & the differences between Western and Russian tanks
Sep 1, 2023
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The podcast features David Knowles, Dominic Nicholls, Howard Mustoe, and Hamish De Bretton-Gordon. They discuss BAE Systems' involvement with the Ukrainian army, tank warfare, Western tank survivability, and nuclear bunkers.
BAE Systems has signed a deal to build British-designed light artillery in Ukraine, aiming to make Ukraine a long-term customer and develop its own industrial capability.
Western tanks have demonstrated high survivability in the conflict in Ukraine, thanks to their strong frontal armor and superior protection compared to Russian tanks.
Understanding the legalities of naval warfare in the conflict in Ukraine is crucial for navigating the complexities of the situation, including Russia's compliance with visit and search rules but disputed blockade claims in the Black Sea.
Deep dives
BAE Systems signs deal for local manufacturing of artillery in Ukraine
BAE Systems, the UK's largest arms manufacturer, has signed a deal to build British-designed light artillery in Ukraine. The move is seen as a step towards making Ukraine a long-term customer and developing its own industrial capability for producing NATO standard equipment. The deal paves the way for in-country manufacturing and potential joint ownership of a factory. The agreement aims to provide Ukraine with the artillery it needs to improve its battlefield advantage and increase its self-reliance.
Survivability of Western tanks in the Ukraine conflict
The use of Western tanks in the conflict in Ukraine has demonstrated their high survivability. Out of the 71 German Leopard 2 tanks deployed, only five have been destroyed and no tank crew members have been killed. The strong frontal armor, bar armor protection against anti-tank weapons, and armored charge bins in Western tanks contribute to their superior protection. In contrast, Russian tanks lack similar levels of protection, making them more vulnerable to destruction. This highlights the continued relevance and effectiveness of tanks in modern warfare.
Legalities and challenges of naval warfare in the Black Sea
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has raised questions about the legalities of naval warfare in the Black Sea region. While the war itself is considered illegal, the international community recognizes that an international armed conflict exists. This triggers certain rules and laws related to naval warfare. Russia's recent actions, such as stopping and searching merchant vessels, have complied with the rules of visit and search as part of naval warfare. However, Russia's claim of enforcing a blockade in the Black Sea is disputed, as there is no declared and effective blockade in place. Understanding the legal boundaries and responsibilities within an armed conflict is crucial for navigating the complexities of the situation.
Deployment of tactical nuclear weapons at RAF Lakenheath
The US plans to build nuclear bunkers at RAF Lakenheath in the UK, signaling the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons. The F-35s stationed there would be capable of delivering these weapons. This move reflects growing nuclear brinkmanship between major powers. The presence of tactical nuclear weapons in the UK serves as a deterrent and reinforces the principle of mutual assured destruction. It demonstrates that the US and UK are committed to deterring any potential nuclear conflict and maintaining stability.
The importance of maintaining a strong nuclear deterrent
The deployment of tactical nuclear weapons in the UK emphasizes the significance of maintaining a strong nuclear deterrent. While the deployment is a response to geopolitical tensions and potential threats, it serves as a measure to prevent nuclear conflict. By reinforcing their military capabilities, countries aim to deter potential adversaries from engaging in nuclear aggression. The presence of tactical nuclear weapons acts as a deterrent, as any hostile actions would result in mutual destruction. The use of nuclear weapons must be avoided at all costs, and international efforts should focus on arms control and disarmament to reduce the risk of nuclear conflict.
Today, we bring you the latest news from the battlefront, discuss the announcement that BAE systems will explore local manufacturing and direct deals with the Ukrainian army, and we analyse tank warfare and some surprising statistics in the full-scale invasion.
Contributors:
David Knowles (Host). @djknowles22 on Twitter.
Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor, Defence). @DomNicholls on Twitter.
Howard Mustoe (Industry Editor). @MustReadMustoe on Twitter.
Hamish De Bretton-Gordon (Former Tank Commander and Telegraph commentator). @HamishDBG on Twitter.
