Russia Deploys Legacy T-54/55 Tanks as Indirect Fire Support in Ukraine

The Soviet-era T-54/55 tank series, often called the "AK-47 of tanks" due to its massive production volume exceeding 100,000 units, has been reintroduced by Russia in the ongoing war in Ukraine. Originally derived from the WWII T-34, these tanks entered service in the late 1950s and were supplied to over 50 nations. Since 2023, Russia has deployed these legacy vehicles to compensate for dwindling stocks of modern T-72 and T-80 tanks. Due to inadequate armor and outdated fire-control systems, they are primarily utilized as mobile artillery for indirect fire support rather than frontline maneuver warfare. Some units have been converted into vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIEDs). To enhance survivability against modern threats, deployed tanks have been modified with explosive reactive armor and anti-drone cages. While losses have been relatively low compared to potential stockpiles, their use highlights industrial challenges and the desperate measure of utilizing deep-storage reserves. The article analyzes their tactical role, historical origins, and performance metrics documented by open-source intelligence.