In recent days, footage has emerged on social media showing a US-supplied Stryker combat vehicle in action in Ukraine. The video appears to show a Russian Lancet loitering munition targeting a Stryker, although the extent of the damage sustained is unclear. While the footage has not been independently verified, it suggests that Strykers are now being used in Ukraine, marking the first deployment of advanced US armor in the conflict against Russia's invasion.
The Strykers are part of Ukraine's 82nd Air Assault Brigade, which was ordered into battle this week to strengthen the counteroffensive in the Zaporizhzhia Region. According to leaked documents, the 82nd Brigade is a formidable unit equipped with 150 NATO-supplied armored infantry carriers, including 90 US-supplied Strykers, 40 German-produced Marders, 24 US M113 infantry carriers, and 14 British Challenger tanks.
In addition to the Strykers, it is believed that the 71-ton Challenger tanks, reinforced with "cope cages" to protect against drone strikes, are also seeing action for the first time. The Pentagon had previously announced its intention to send 90 Stryker APCs to Ukraine as part of a $2.5 billion aid package.
The Stryker is a hybrid infantry fighting vehicle and armored personnel vehicle, equipped with a 30mm cannon for direct fire. It can transport infantry soldiers in and out of battle and provide fire support with weapons like 120-millimeter mortars. With a weight of 20 tons, the eight-wheeler is capable of reaching speeds of 60 mph.
The Russian Ministry of Defence claims to have taken out four Strykers since their appearance on the frontline near Zaporizhzhia. However, the extent of the damage and the veracity of these claims cannot be independently confirmed.
These recent developments highlight the escalating nature of the conflict in Ukraine and the increasing involvement of advanced military equipment. The deployment of Strykers and Challenger tanks signifies Ukraine's determination to resist Russian aggression and protect its territorial integrity. The situation remains tense, and further developments are expected in the coming days.