SOURCE: AFI
Umang Kohli, an Indian Army veteran, recently shared fascinating insights about his experiences with five different tanks during his distinguished career. From driving and firing to commanding some of the most iconic armored vehicles in military history, Kohli’s reflections offer a rare glimpse into the evolution of armored warfare.
Vijayant Tank : “Huge and bulky, I could barely change its gear. It was so heavy that it wouldn’t stop even after pressing the brake—you had to stand on it.” The Vijayant, known for its size and ruggedness, posed challenges in maneuverability. Despite these challenges, it held a special place in India’s armored history as a reliable platform during its era.
T-55 Tank : “So dependable and effective. A four-man crew, with everything manual and nothing automatic.” Kohli highlighted the T-55’s adaptability and effectiveness in combat, despite its limitations like poor night sights. He emphasized its reliability, stating that a trained crew could outperform even modern tanks. “It could fire 8-9 rounds a minute, whereas an automatic loader would fire a maximum of three.” Commanding a squadron of T-55s, Kohli regarded it as a formidable tank capable of handling any Pakistani offensive, demonstrating its versatility across varied terrains.
T-72 Tank: “Smooth to drive, with a three-man crew. Not as accurate as the T-55 but less fatiguing to operate. Fast and furious.” The T-72 introduced a more streamlined design and reduced crew requirements. Kohli appreciated its speed and ease of operation, though he found its accuracy slightly lacking compared to the T-55.
Arjun Tank: “A huge tank. Accurate as hellfire with heavy firepower.” India’s indigenously developed Arjun tank earned praise for its accuracy and firepower. However, Kohli noted its logistical challenges, particularly its weight and difficulty in transportation across theaters of war. “If the enemy is to fear anything opposite itself, it’s the Mighty Arjun.” The Arjun’s formidable presence and capabilities make it a tank to be reckoned with, especially in direct engagements.
T-90 Tank: The latest that we have. Fast, accurate, and totally technical.” Commanding the T-90, Kohli admired its advanced features, including missile-firing capabilities and precision targeting.
“A driver’s dream and a commander’s passion.” The T-90 represents the pinnacle of modern tank warfare in India, requiring a high level of technical training to maximize its potential.
Kohli’s journey through five iconic tanks highlights the evolution of armored platforms, from the manual systems of the T-55 to the technologically advanced T-90. Each tank brought unique capabilities and challenges, reflecting the dynamic nature of armored warfare.
His insights underscore the critical role of skilled crews, training, and adaptability in leveraging the full potential of these tanks. Kohli’s experiences not only showcase the pride of India’s armored regiments but also serve as a tribute to the ingenuity and dedication of those who operate these machines.