These Abandoned War Tanks Will Leave You Speechless

The introduction of military tanks markedly changed the way humans wage war. Their sheer mass is psychologically intimidating, almost as if they tap into our primal fears of immense predatory animals. In addition, they are clearly designed to for human slaughter while protecting those inflicting the harm. It’s no wonder images of tanks seem haunting. Here are unforgettable images of abandoned war tanks that evoke all the pathos of viewing war machines plus the futility of their dereliction.

1. Kharkov Soviet Tank Graveyard, Ukraine
   
   This massive, heavily guarded tank graveyard in the Ukraine contains a sea of discarded Soviet tanks, many manufactured over fifty years ago. This location was previously a busy tank repair facility, but with newer, more technologically advanced models coming in, these older versions silently decay.

1. From the wreck of the SS Empire Heritage
   
   The SS Empire Heritage was commissioned for World War II service as a transport ship after its service as a whaling vessel. On its fateful voyage to Liverpool from New York, A German U-boat torpedoed and sank it on September 8, 1944. It was carrying dozens of Sherman tanks that now rest in peace under 200 feet of water off the coast of Donegal, Ireland.

1. Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico
   
   This tank melting into the ocean on the beach of Vieques Island, Puerto Rico was once part of a US Navy training exercise. The island along with its neighbor Culebra were used as a target practice and training facility until President Nixon decided to pull the military operations due to rioting and court battles over the wrongful eviction of the inhabitants.