This footage is significant is it shows units engaged in unimpeded movement, advancing along routes and across country free of mines and trenches, and without being harassed by drone swarms. This is a change from the opposing lines in Ukraine, which, after over two years of war, area saturated with defensive works. Russia has committed most of its available forces to the front in Ukraine, and Russian territory just across the border is lightly defended. This unexpected move by Ukraine may yield results at the operational and strategic levels, but the move also possesses certain tactical advantages for the forces committed. Not only can they utilize road networks without fear of mines or entrenchments, but the presence of EW assets is much less than along the front lines in Ukraine. Ukraine has wagered enough on this gambit that they even risked (and lost) a Buk missile system in the operation. It will be interesting to see how well this incursion is coordinated with operations elsewhere, and whether the gamble will change the operational picture along the front.

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 Triumph Sailing, a nonprofit that supports veterans and first responders through adventure and fellowship on the water. Triumph Sailing is preparing for the 2024 season of sailing on Galveston Bay and in the Gulf of Mexico. You can support the mission and next year's sailing season at Tri-Sail.Org.