Dictionary

cope cage en · NOUN

Etymology

Coined in 2022 to refer to the structures placed on Russian tank turrets during the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The word cope is used mockingly (referring to the slang meaning of cope: "delusion, coping mechanism"), as the cages were perceived to be ineffective against much of the weaponry used by the Ukrainian forces, such as Javelin anti-tank missiles.

Meanings

1. (derogatory, slang) An improvised kit of slat armor, consisting of a cage-like defensive structure placed upon an armoured vehicle as protection against explosive devices or loitering munitions.
   • The nickname is “the cope cage,” to allow the crew to cope with the Javelins. And they’re about as effective as wearing a cloth mask to stop the spread of COVID. 2022 March, The Daily Signal:
   • The most recent photo of a Ukrainian Challenger 2 to appear online depicts the tank with a turret-mounted cage that the crew clearly hopes will help to protect the vehicle from drone strikes. These “cope cages” are a battlefield expedient that brigades tend to install on their own as they’re getting ready to enter combat. 2023 August, Forbes:
   • The Challenger tanks have been reinforced with "cope cages" — self-installed turret-mounted cages to safeguard the vehicles from drone strikes. 2023 August 19, Business Insider:

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