Ukrainian Forces Destroy Russian-Captured American M113 Armored Vehicle in Combat Near Kotlyne, Video

Ukrainian forces repelled an attempted counterattack by Russian troops in the Kotlyne area of Donetsk region, during which a captured American-made M113 armored personnel carrier (APC) was destroyed.

The attack was carried out on a mined road under Ukrainian drone surveillance, resulting in the elimination of Russian personnel and the destruction of multiple armored vehicles, including a Russian BTR-82A.

According to the Ukrainian drone unit from the 155th Separate Mechanized Brigade “Anne of Kyiv”, Russian forces launched an assault on Kotlyne using armored vehicles, including a previously captured M113 APC. The vehicle had been modified with additional protective grilles. The advancing Russian units encountered pre-laid Ukrainian mines, leading to the destruction of their armored assets.

This attempt followed recent combat operations by Ukraine’s 425th Separate Assault Regiment “Skala,” which had pushed Russian forces out of Kotlyne. The area remains contested, with Ukrainian forces working to maintain control and counter ongoing Russian attacks.

Kotlyne, located approximately 10 kilometers from Pokrovsk, holds strategic significance due to its proximity to key supply routes.

Earlier, it was reported that Russian losses near Pokrovsk have exceeded those of the entire Second Chechen War, citing Viktor Trehubov, spokesperson for Ukraine’s “Khortytsia ” operational-strategic group. According to Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, over 7,000 Russian soldiers have been killed, with total casualties—including wounded and missing—reaching 15,000.

UNITED24 Media team has recently interviewed soldiers of the first French-trained 155th Separate Mechanized Brigade “Anne of Kyiv.” Watch to learn more about brigade’s operations and challenges they face om the frontlines.

M113 in Ukraine

The M113 is a tracked armored personnel carrier originally developed in the United States and widely used by NATO allies. Designed for troop transport, it offers protection against small arms fire and artillery fragments. The M113 has seen extensive use in conflicts worldwide and remains a key asset for many armed forces.

Since 2022, Ukraine has received multiple shipments of M113s from Western partners. The United States, Netherlands, Denmark, and other allies have collectively provided hundreds of these vehicles to support Ukrainian defense efforts.

The M113’s versatility allows it to serve in various roles, including troop transport, medical evacuation, and command and control operations. Some units have been modified with additional armor and weapon systems for frontline deployment.

M113 Key Specifications

• Weight: ~12.3 tons

• Crew: 2 (driver and commander) + capacity for 11 passengers

• Armor: Aluminum alloy, resistant to small arms fire and shell fragments

• Armament: Typically equipped with a 12.7mm M2 Browning machine gun

• Engine: Detroit Diesel 6V53T (275 hp)

• Speed: Up to 67 km/h (road)

• Range: Approximately 480 km

Earlier, US announced a new $400 million military aid package for Ukraine during a visit to Kyiv on October 21. The package includes M113 tracked armored vehicles, along with artillery shells, anti-tank weapons, and satellite communication equipment.