According to a tweet from Ukraine Weapons Tracker, Russian forces have reportedly destroyed a Ukrainian M1132 Stryker Engineer Squad vehicle. The incident took place near Robotyne, located in the Zaporizhzhia Oblast region.
This incident marks the first confirmed loss of this type of vehicle for the Ukrainian forces. The destruction of such a specialized vehicle not only represents a material loss but could also hamper the engineering capabilities of the Ukrainian army in the region.
The current conflict in Ukraine, characterized by positional warfare and fortifications, requires a good engineering team, so the loss of such equipment is significant. However, Ukraine has received 189 Strykers from the United States, of which 20 are Stryker Engineer Squad vehicles. It is important to note that 20 vehicles are not enough to cover the entire front.
The Stryker M1132 Engineer Squad Vehicle (ESV) is a specialized model within the broader Stryker family, a series of armored fighting vehicles employed by the US military. With its 8-wheeled configuration, the Stryker is designed to offer adaptability in various missions, with the M1132 ESV designed specifically for combat engineering operations.
The Stryker protects its occupants against threats such as small arms fire, artillery shell fragments, and land mines. His base armor, made of steel, can be upgraded with additional armor modules. A uniquely designed V-shaped hull channels the explosive forces of mines and IEDs away from the crew compartment. The vehicle also features defensive upgrades such as smoke grenade dispensers and a remotely operated weapon system.
Mobility is a hallmark of the Stryker, with its 8-wheel configuration ensuring agility and quick movement. It performs well on various terrains and can maintain high speeds on main roads, powered by a Caterpillar C7 diesel engine. This engine allows you to reach speeds close to 60 mph (97 km/h) and travel distances of up to 300 miles (483 km). The vehicle features a double wishbone independent spring suspension system.
The primary mission of the M1132 ESV is to enhance the engineering capabilities of Stryker Brigade Combat Teams (SBCTs). Their responsibilities span a spectrum, from barrier clearance and mine detection to reconnaissance and demolition assistance and direct combat support.
The M1132 ESV can be fitted with tools such as a mine clearance blade or hydraulic arm to clear barriers. Mine detection tools can be integrated, allowing the vehicle to locate and disarm mines and IEDs in combat zones. In reconnaissance roles, the ESV identifies and marks safe routes for other vehicles and soldiers.
In addition, the vehicle can carry and detonate demolition explosives to dismantle enemy defenses or set up barriers against them. To conclude its multifaceted roles, the M1132 ESV can be armed with a remote weapon system, positioning it to provide direct fire support to infantry divisions.
Given the number of mines the Russians have laid in the Ukraine, mine clearance vehicles are a crucial asset. The loss of one is never good news for either party, but Ukraine still retains 19 M1132 Stryker Engineer Squad vehicles.
Alain Henry de Frahan
