Imagine armies needing to cross rivers in the middle of a war. Building bridges takes time, and those bridges can get blown up. So, what do you do? Well, during World War II, the British Army came up with a clever solution: they turned tanks into mobile bridges. They called them "funny tanks" because they looked a bit odd, with big metal spans strapped to their tops.

Fast forward to today, in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, specifically around the Kursk region in Russia. Russian forces are facing a similar problem. They need to get their troops and equipment across rivers, but traditional bridges are easily destroyed. So, they've taken a page from the old playbook and are using their own version of "funny tanks."

Instead of metal spans, they're using BTR-D air assault vehicles, which are essentially light, tracked armored vehicles. They're adding what look like wooden platforms on top and driving them into the river. These vehicles sink into the muddy riverbed, and the wooden platforms create a makeshift bridge. It's a simple idea, but it seems to be working, at least to some extent.

A Ukrainian drone operator spotted these modified BTR-Ds in action, and other analysts have confirmed that they're being used. These "funny tanks" are most active on the western edge of the Kursk area, where Russian paratroopers are trying to push back Ukrainian forces. The Snahist River is a major obstacle there, and the Ukrainians are doing everything they can to stop the Russians from crossing.

Why are they using these improvised bridges? Well, traditional bridges are easy targets for Ukrainian artillery and drones. And purpose-built bridging vehicles, while effective, are large, slow, and also vulnerable. The BTR-Ds, on the other hand, are relatively fast and mobile. They can reach speeds of nearly 40 miles per hour on roads, which makes them harder to hit.

Of course, they're not invincible. They're still vulnerable to mines, missiles, artillery, and drones. The armor on a BTR-D is quite thin, so they can be easily damaged or destroyed. In fact, Ukrainian forces have already knocked out several of these improvised bridging vehicles. But despite their vulnerability, they've allowed Russian troops to cross the Snahist River multiple times and gain ground around the village of Darino.

Let's delve deeper into why this tactic is being employed and what it signifies:

The Context of Modern Warfare:

Modern warfare is characterized by rapid advancements in technology, particularly in drone warfare and precision-guided munitions. This makes traditional infrastructure, like bridges, highly vulnerable. In a conflict like the one in Ukraine, where both sides are heavily reliant on these technologies, the ability to quickly establish and maintain lines of communication and supply is crucial.

The Importance of Mobility:

In a fluid battlefield, mobility is key. Being able to quickly move troops and equipment across obstacles like rivers can give a significant tactical advantage. The BTR-D "funny tanks" provide a way to achieve this mobility without relying on vulnerable permanent bridges or slow engineering vehicles.

Improvisation and Adaptability:

The use of these improvised bridges highlights the importance of improvisation and adaptability in warfare. When faced with challenges, armies must be able to find creative solutions using the resources available to them. The Russian forces have demonstrated this ability by modifying their BTR-Ds for a new purpose.

The Vulnerability of Light Vehicles:

While the BTR-Ds offer mobility, they are also highly vulnerable. Their thin armor makes them susceptible to a wide range of threats. This highlights the trade-off between mobility and protection. In modern warfare, where threats can come from all directions, even lightly armored vehicles are at considerable risk.

Practical Advice and Considerations:

For any military force considering similar tactics, several factors need to be carefully considered:

• Riverbed Conditions: The suitability of this tactic depends heavily on the riverbed conditions. A muddy or shallow riverbed is ideal, while a rocky or deep riverbed may render the vehicles ineffective.
• Vehicle Modifications: The design and construction of the improvised bridge platform are crucial. It must be strong enough to support the weight of the vehicles and troops crossing, while also being easy to install and remove.
• Security Measures: Protecting the bridging operation from enemy attacks is essential. This may involve deploying smoke screens, providing covering fire, and using electronic warfare to disrupt enemy drones.
• Logistical Support: Maintaining a steady supply of BTR-Ds and bridge platforms is critical. Damaged or destroyed vehicles need to be quickly replaced, and additional platforms may be required as the operation expands.
• Training and Coordination: Troops need to be thoroughly trained in the operation of the bridging vehicles and the procedures for crossing the river. Effective coordination between different units is also essential to ensure a smooth and efficient operation.
• Risk Assessment: Every mission should begin with a thorough risk assessment. The pros and cons of using the BTR-D bridging vehicles should be carefully weighed against other options.
• Alternative Solutions: It is important to explore alternative solutions. For example, deploying portable bridges, utilizing other amphibious vehicles, or employing air assault operations.

Broader Insights:

The use of these "funny tanks" is a reminder that even in the age of high-tech warfare, simple and effective solutions can still play a crucial role. It also underscores the importance of adaptability and improvisation in the face of adversity. This example illustrates how armies are constantly adapting to the evolving nature of warfare, finding new ways to overcome challenges and gain a tactical advantage.

The conflict in Ukraine has become a testing ground for new and old military tactics. The use of BTR-D bridging vehicles is just one example of the innovative approaches being employed by both sides. As the war continues, we can expect to see further developments in military technology and tactics, as armies strive to find new ways to gain an edge on the battlefield.

In conclusion, the reinvention of "funny tanks" in Kursk demonstrates the enduring value of ingenuity in warfare. While technology plays a significant role, the ability to adapt and improvise remains crucial. The BTR-D bridging vehicles, despite their vulnerability, have proven to be a valuable asset for Russian forces, allowing them to overcome a significant obstacle and continue their offensive. This innovative tactic highlights the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of modern warfare.