The Vulnerability of Tanks to Artillery: An Analysis

Tanks have long been a staple of modern warfare, renowned for their formidable defenses and offensive capabilities. However, the question of their vulnerability to artillery has sparked much debate. In this article, we will explore the complicated reality of how tanks fare against artillery in the context of modern warfare.

Understanding the Interaction: Tanks vs Artillery

In the general perception, tanks seem nearly invincible against artillery. This is largely due to the portrayal in online cartoons and media, which often exaggerate the destructive power of artillery shells. However, the reality is far more nuanced and complex.

Tanks are, in fact, virtually immune to air-burst artillery, which was historically the primary anti-infantry weapon. While crew supplies such as food, water, and clothing might be affected by shrapnel, the tank itself remains largely intact. The same can be said for the crew, who, despite possible injuries from secondary effects, are not typically in immediate danger from conventional artillery.

Conventional high-explosive (HE) rounds from artillery have a certain effect, but destruction or disabling a tank through such means is highly improbable without direct impact. A hit needs to land on a critical part of the tank, such as the tracks or the engine, to produce significant damage.

Modern Developments in Artillery Technology

As technology has advanced, so too have the capabilities of artillery. Air-burst artillery and other innovations have been developed to target tanks more effectively. However, these advancements do not come without limitations and costs.

SMART artillery rounds have been developed that can achieve near-100 percent accuracy in hitting tanks. These rounds, though highly effective, are extremely expensive and not widely available. If a stationary tank stands still, a smart artillery round can likely destroy it. However, moving tanks are much harder to target due to the precision required.

The effectiveness of smart artillery rounds relies heavily on the target being stationary and predictable. In a real battlefield scenario, where tanks can move unpredictably, the challenge increases significantly. Artillery needs to hit the tank before it moves, which is a difficult task even for advanced systems.

The Practical Implications of Modern Warfare

Despite the potential of modern artillery, the practical realities of warfare introduce significant challenges. When a single artillery round is fired, it alerts enemy forces to the position of the artillery piece. Consequently, modern armies can quickly counteract with their own artillery, focusing on destroying the targeting artillery.

In peer-to-peer or near-peer conflicts, the primary role of artillery is to defend against the enemy's artillery. This means that the side that actually fires artillery is likely to face significant counter-battery fire. Even in one-sided conflicts, effective defense against artillery is crucial.

Third-world armies using second-hand tanks and facing well-funded modern armies would be at a severe disadvantage. Artillery could rapidly neutralize these tanks before they could even enter the battlefield. The effectiveness of modern artillery in such scenarios highlights the importance of proper tactical deployment and situational awareness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while tanks are indeed vulnerable to modern artillery, their degree of vulnerability varies significantly based on the specific circumstances. The effectiveness of smart artillery rounds, combined with the sophisticated counter-battery capabilities of modern forces, presents a formidable threat. Understanding these complexities is crucial for both military strategists and historians, providing valuable insights into the future of armored warfare.