Russia’s effective defenses in Ukraine include deep minefields, adaptable drones, and electronic warfare, experts say.

Russia's effective defenses in Ukraine include deep minefields, adaptable drones, and electronic warfare, experts say.

Russia’s Multi-Layered Defenses Stalling Ukrainian Counteroffensive

Russia’s use of multi-layered mines, adaptable drones, and electronic warfare in Ukraine is proving to be a significant challenge for the Ukrainian counteroffensive. Experts and multiple reports indicate that Russia’s defenses are effectively causing a stalemate on the frontlines, hindering Ukraine’s efforts to regain territory in the east and south of the country.

The Power of Multi-Layered Mines

One of the main obstacles faced by Ukrainian forces is Russia’s strengthened front line, fortified with minefields, trenches, and rows of concrete pyramids known as “dragon’s teeth.” These obstacles have made it difficult for tanks and other armored vehicles to advance.

The multi-layered minefields are particularly challenging for Ukrainian troops. The Russian forces strategically place several mines on top of each other, making it nearly impossible for mine-clearing equipment to counter them effectively. As a result, Ukrainian soldiers have resorted to manually clearing the mines, risking their lives while crawling on the ground. Additionally, the heavy fortifications have forced them to abandon some of their advanced Western tanks.

Ukrainian tank commander Maksym, near the front line, described the situation, stating, “It’s very hard because there are too many mines.” He further explained that there are often more than four rows of minefields in front of the Russian defensive lines.

Satellite images show pyramid-shaped concrete shards nicknamed “devil’s teeth,” which are designed to slow down Ukrainian troops. (Image Source: Maxar)

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According to David Lewis, a senior associate fellow at the think-tank Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), Russia’s calculated withdrawal from the city of Kherson in November last year allowed them to defend a stable front line using extensive fortifications and defensive lines. The natural advantages of a defensive force have worked in Russia’s favor.

A retired Australian general, Mick Ryan, agreed with Lewis, stating that Russia’s defensive lines are “much more complex and deadly than anything experienced by any military in nearly 80 years.”

Russian Adaptation and Electronic Warfare

Russia’s successful defense strategies cannot only be attributed to fortified front lines. Russian soldiers have also adapted to Ukrainian tactics after losing key strongholds to long-range weapons. Additionally, they have moved logistical sites and headquarters out of range of Ukraine’s guided rockets and missiles.

Russia has set up major air defense systems near the front lines to intercept missiles and drones aimed at their positions. They have also launched an efficient electronic-warfare campaign, jamming Ukrainian drones and disrupting their radio communications.

Steve Wright, a drone technology developer and expert, explained Russia’s jamming technique, stating, “Russia deploys the jamming technique a lot — they jam the GPS signals and broadcast noise on the same frequency, causing drones to lose their direction.” As a result, Ukraine is losing approximately 10,000 drones per month.

Russia’s jamming technique has also affected the accuracy of American-guided weapons used by Ukraine, as revealed by leaked Pentagon documents. Justin Bronk, a senior research fellow with RUSI, pointed to reports indicating that Ukrainian drones had hit an office high-rise in Moscow, suggesting that they had been diverted from their intended targets.

Lewis noted that Ukraine has access to more advanced technology and has implemented creative approaches in the war. However, Russia has quickly adapted to new threats and tactics, neutralizing short-term Ukrainian advantages.

The Steady Supply of Russian Weapons

Furthermore, Russia has been able to increase military industrial production to maintain supplies to its forces, even though there are complaints of under-supply within Russian units.

The combined strength of Russia’s solidified defense and continuous weapons production has resulted in marginal gains for Ukraine. As a result, both sides are almost at a standstill on the frontlines. The balance of power remains relatively stable, although attrition behind the front lines could significantly impact Russian supply lines.

General Mark Milley, the most senior US military commander, acknowledged that Ukraine’s military is well-prepared for the counteroffensive, but it will likely be a back-and-forth fight for a considerable length of time. Other experts believe that the war will persist for many years.

Future Implications

If Ukraine fails to achieve significant victories in its counteroffensive, there is a higher chance of Western pressure to negotiate with Russia. Jaroslava Barbieri, an expert on Russia and post-Soviet states, warns that the lack of progress could lead to diplomatic pressure on Kyiv.

Despite the challenges faced by Ukraine, they continue to adapt and implement new strategies. The evolving nature of the conflict demands ongoing analysis and innovative approaches to overcome Russia’s formidable defenses.

This article is for informative purposes only. The statements and views expressed here are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of OpenAI.

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