The sidelining of the Abrams reflects evolving battlefield tactics where drone use has made it virtually impossible for them to maneuver without detection.
Piloted in 2017, the Air Force's Shark Tank knockoff formed part of a broader campaign to expedite the process of finding and developing new technology.
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.
Abrams tanks needed for training Ukrainian forces have arrived in Germany slightly ahead of schedule, already on their way to the Grafenwoehr Army base.