The Russian Defense Ministry has released a video that it says showcases the military tactics used by assault units near the city of Ugledar in Russia’s Donetsk People’s Republic.
The approach displayed involves using a high-speed advance force on motorbikes to quickly cross the so-called ‘gray zone’ and engage defending troops on the other side on foot, while a main group of attackers moves on slower heavy armored vehicles. The initial group is supported by cover fire provided by tanks and infantry fighting vehicles, the ministry explained on Monday.
The video includes drone footage apparently showing four motorbikes speeding across the battlefield and an assault squad in action that was filmed by a cameraman embedded with the team. No Ukrainian troops are visible in the latter part of the clip. The Russian troops were identified as being part of the East grouping of forces.
The widespread use by both sides of reconnaissance and kamikaze drones makes concentrating forces for a surprise attack virtually impossible. This has facilitated the use of smaller stealth groups and other innovative combat tactics.
“The task of the assault troops is to cut off the supply lines of a large Ukrainian garrison stationed in Ugledar,” the military said, referring to a Donbass town used by Kiev as a fortified position.
Earlier in the day the ministry mentioned that the East grouping of forces had improved its tactical position in the general area of Ugledar. The report estimated Ukrainian military losses over the last 24 hours at up to 135 troops, five vehicles and a 122mm howitzer.
Ukraine deployed thousands of soldiers for an incursion into Russia’s Kursk Region earlier this month, opting for a cross-border operation even as it entailed pulling forces away from Donbass. Officials in Kiev claimed that the maneuvers would force Moscow to move some troops away from Donbass, which they hoped would alleviate pressure on the frontline.
However, Russian forces have maintained the pace of operations in Donbass and are reporting that more territory is being liberated on a daily basis. Ukrainian military leaders have attributed the loss of ground to unmotivated and poorly trained conscripts being sent as reinforcements, the Associated Press reported last week.