"This work is organized on the instructions of Deputy Defense Minister Col.-Gen. [Yunus-Bek] Yevkurov, who set the specific task of creating these groups. In accordance with his instructions, the head of the main department of combat training, Col.-Gen. [Ivan] Buvaltsev with his team has developed methodological recommendations and organized a methodology for implementation, and the combat training center is putting these measures into practice," Arifulin told Russian broadcaster.
He called the creation of the special groups "a great state systematic work."
"We know all their [Western tanks’] strengths and weaknesses and are preparing personnel ... Plus, tank crews are preparing here directly for a tank duel," he said.
Russian troops are studying, in particular, US tanks Abrams, German Leopard 2, French Leclerc and UK Challenger, according to Arifulin.
Western countries have been supplying Kiev regime with various types of weapons systems, including air defense missiles, multiple launch rocket systems, tanks, self-propelled artillery and anti-aircraft guns, since Russia launched its military operation in Ukraine. The Kremlin has repeatedly warned against continued arms deliveries to Kiev.