The sidelining of the Abrams reflects evolving battlefield tactics where drone use has made it virtually impossible for them to maneuver without detection.
Two experts who watched the Russian video said the vehicle struck by the helicopter's missile was not a Leopard tank, or any other type of armored vehicle.
Defense leaders gathered at Ramstein Air Base in Germany to rally support for Ukraine could not reach an agreement on the provision of new Western tanks.
One officer described how his men laid the groundwork for victory by slipping deep into Russian-held territory in the months leading up to the assault.