A Ukrainian mechanized assault on Russian positions north of Bakhmut. The video opens with tanks advancing along a road and then through open fields. They are supported by what appears to be a MCLIC or similar mine clearing device, which seems to fire behind the leading tanks, though the perspective of the drone camera may be deceptive. Drones are dropping smoke on the forward Russian positions which are then engaged by the Ukrainian tanks - this is the first time that I have seen this technique of target marking in a video. Two BMP-2 IFVs enter the frame firing their primary weapons and deploy their infantry dismounts.

The perspective then shifts to what can only be described as brutal trench clearing. The Ukrainians advance relentlessly and are merciless in clearing the Russian dugouts. One frame shows a Ukrainian soldier in a forward position heavily outnumbered and proceeds to eliminate at least three of his opponents. Russian soldiers not eliminated by Ukrainian infantry are harried by drones.

The decision by Ukraine to commit resources to the liberation of Bakhmut is confusing to some, but the effort to encircle this city fits into larger operational and strategic schemes. Attempts to advance along the southern front must contend with extensive and well-prepared fortifications and obstacles. Give that Bakhmut was only recently captured Russian defenses in the vicinity are less well prepared. Bakhmut’s symbolic importance to the Russians has compelled them to commit substantial resources in its defense, which has fixed in place some formidable Russian units, denuding other fronts of operational reserves. After the first few weeks of their offensive, Ukraine shifted tactics with the goal of achieving an asymmetrical attrition gradient, destroying more Russian units and materiel and preserving their own. This approach serves immediate operational objectives by eliminating Russian units on the field and strategic goals by placing pressure on the Russian Army’s manpower system and on Russian society as a whole.

About the Author

Cam

Cam served as an infantry officer in the Marine Corps, deploying to the Horn of Africa and participating in combat operations in Iraq. He currently works in the maritime industry and in the defense sector as an instructor of combined arms planning and operations. An avid sailor, Cam founded and directs a nonprofit that supports veterans and first responders through sailing.