In early 2023, France announced its intention to supply Ukraine with AMX-10RC vehicles as part of its defense assistance package. By March of the same year, French Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu confirmed that these vehicles had not only been delivered but were already deployed to the frontlines.
As of now, the Ukrainian Defense Forces have been utilizing the AMX-10RC on the battlefield for over a year and a half. A recent Army TV report featured interviews with the crew of one of these vehicles, shedding light on its combat applications.
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Speed and Precision: The Key Advantages
The AMX-10RC's speed and maneuverability are among its most significant strengths, as highlighted by the military personnel operating it. According to the vehicle's commander, known by the call sign Rapier, the crew can quickly reach their positions, complete their tasks, and retreat to safety before being detected or targeted.
The Army TV footage includes an instance where both the reporting crew and the AMX-10RC team were forced to abandon their position rapidly due to an incoming attack by a russian FPV drone.
Firepower and Target Engagement
The vehicle’s firing rate depends on the efficiency of the loader, typically achieving one shot every six seconds. Over a 60–70 second period, the crew can fire 11–12 rounds.
The AMX-10RC is primarily used to engage infantry and lightly armored enemy equipment. According to the vehicle’s operator, it excels at quickly neutralizing large groups of advancing infantry. Its accuracy is significantly enhanced when fire is adjusted with the help of reconnaissance drones.
The operator, who has been working with the AMX-10RC since the start of his service, regards it as an exceptional machine, praising its ability to deliver precise and effective strikes.
Adaptations for the Ukrainian Battlefield
Ukrainian forces employ the AMX-10RC in roles tailored to their battlefield needs, often firing from concealed positions using additional equipment. This differs from its traditional French usage, where such tasks are typically assigned to CAESAR self-propelled howitzers.
However, it is important to note that the AMX-10RC was originally designed as a reconnaissance armored vehicle. When first deployed in Ukraine, it became evident that its thin armor made it unsuitable for modern offensive operations, especially in environments dominated by drone warfare.
Despite these limitations, the AMX-10RC has proven to be a valuable asset in defensive and support roles, delivering effective firepower when used strategically.
Read more: What Ukrainians Do with French AMX-10RC APCs, Why It Does Not Work?
