Effective Mine-Resistant Vehicles: Why a Super Strong Mine Breaching Tank Remains Elusive

Why hasn't a super strong mine breaching vehicle been developed that could withstand all known anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), artillery shells, and keep its tracks on the ground, even if it is a tall order? Some argue that current solutions are already adequate, while others suggest that a more strategic approach is needed.

Why Building a Super Strong Mine Breaching Tank May Not Be the Solution

There are indeed machines capable of breaching mine fields, such as the Bangalore mine, a long pole of explosively linked charges that can clear a path of mines safely. However, the problem lies in the constant arms race between the development of new weapons and their adaptability to counter them. As soon as one design is created to overcome a certain mine, technology advances, making the new vehicle vulnerable again.

The quest for an invincible mine breaching vehicle would be a never-ending battle. Designing and testing such a vehicle against ever-evolving mine technology is a futile exercise. Instead, it might be more beneficial for Russia and Ukraine to negotiate for a fair and equitable peace. Fighting continues to escalate, and even the most advanced solutions cannot fully protect against modern warfare tactics.

Current Effective Solutions: Bangalore Mine and MICLIC

Alternatives like the Bangalore mine have been in use since 1914 and remain effective due to their simplicity and effectiveness. Another modern solution, MICLIC (Multiple Instruction Command Link Instruction Computer), is a reliable method for clearing minefields, although it doesn't move through them. MICLIC effectively detonates mines with precise detonation points, breaking them into smaller, less threatening fragments.

Limitations and Solutions in Armored Vehicle Design

The design of modern armored vehicles has reached a point of equilibrium. The M1 Abrams, for instance, is already teetering on the edge of optimal weight. Increasing weight significantly increases the requirement for stronger engines, transmission, and drive shafts, making vehicles prone to failure. Besides, the terrain also becomes an issue as heavier vehicles may break roads or sink into soft ground. Additionally, most bridges and water crossings would be impossible for such heavy machines.

Armor itself, though effective, only serves as the fifth layer in a multi-layered "survivability onion." This consists of avoidance (don't be there), mobility (keep moving), deception (don't be detected), defense (hit the enemy first), and protection (don't be penetrated). By focusing on a combination of tactics and technology, armored vehicles can remain effective on the modern battlefield.

Survivability Onion: A Comprehensive Strategy

Survivability involves more than just armor. A vehicle's survivability is a layer of defense that includes strategic placement, real-time threat assessment, and active protection systems. Key strategies include:

Don't Be There: Sending vehicles only when absolutely necessary and avoiding high-risk areas. High Vehicle Mobility: Moving quickly to respond to threats and leaving areas before enemy retaliation. Threat Detection and Analysis: Using various detection methods to avoid enemy weapons systems. Don't Be Detected: Utilizing stealth techniques such as camouflage, thermal management, and noise reduction. Hit the Enemy First: Attacking with overwhelming force to prevent enemy retaliation. Don't Be Acquired or Identified: Using camouflage, stealth, and mobility to avoid detection. Don't Be Hit: Utilizing mobility, stealth, and decoys to avoid enemy hits. Don't Be Penetrated: Using armor only when necessary and designing redundant and compartmentalized systems. Don't Be Killed: Ensuring crew safety, proper ammunition storage, and escape hatches.

Modern armored vehicles rely on a combination of strategic planning, technology, and design to remain effective despite the limitations of armor alone. While no single solution can make a vehicle completely invulnerable, a comprehensive approach can maximize survivability and effectiveness on the modern battlefield.