Ukraine has seized enough weapons that Russia is now vying with Western countries to provide arms, according to a Ukrainian colonel.

Ukraine has seized enough weapons that Russia is now vying with Western countries to provide arms, according to a Ukrainian colonel.

Ukraine’s Use of Captured Russian Military Equipment: A Bold Strategy Against the Invading Forces

Ukraine, in a bold move to fend off the invading forces, has creatively repurposed a vast array of Russian military equipment that they captured during the ongoing war. According to a recent report, Ukraine has managed to retrieve over 800 Russian artillery systems, armored vehicles, and other weaponry, including 300 tanks. These captured weapons are not just being kept as war trophies; they have been repaired, examined for military-tech information, and are now being used against their former owners on the battlefield.

Among the highly prized weapons seized are Russia’s modernized T-72 tanks, which are now being pointed directly back at the invading forces. The Ukrainian military seized many of these items, including Grad rocket launcher systems, during their stunning counteroffensive in the north and east of the country. This move represents a significant development in the ongoing conflict as it allows Ukraine to compete with Western countries in terms of weapon supply to bolster its defensive capabilities.

Colonel Oleksandr Saruba, who works for the Ukrainian military center responsible for receiving and analyzing captured weaponry, affirmed Ukraine’s strategic use of these weapons against Russia. In March 2022, Ukraine announced that it had captured 24 Uragan missiles, which were immediately aimed back at the enemy. This utilization of captured technology not only strengthens Ukraine’s military capabilities but also provides valuable insights into Russia’s sources for high-tech parts, potentially guiding future sanctions.

However, there are limitations to the effectiveness of some modern equipment seized from Russian hands. Russian military analyst Michael Kofman highlights the significant battlefield constraints on Ukraine’s use of these captured assets. Despite the constant efforts of Ukrainian repair shops, some captured vehicles rely on modern parts that are not manufactured in Ukraine, which still heavily relies on Soviet-era tanks. “You may capture a lot of vehicles on paper, but without the necessary engines, transmissions, and parts, they become non-operational,” Kofman said at a Carnegie Endowment event.

Tanks, which have received considerable attention, face particular challenges. Ukraine’s top general, Valery Zaluzhny, revealed that miles of minefields are hindering tank advances during the country’s grueling counteroffensive. This obstacle has contributed to the loss of a significant number of Western-supplied tanks deployed by Ukraine. Consequently, Ukraine has shifted tactics by heavily relying on artillery attacks and following up on foot, rather than leading the charge with tanks.

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Despite these limitations, Ukraine’s use of captured Russian military equipment showcases their resilience and resourcefulness in the face of the invading forces. By repurposing weapons of their adversaries, Ukraine has turned the tables on their former owners, demonstrating their determination to defend their sovereignty. This strategy not only boosts their military strength but also adds significant value in deciphering Russia’s weapon supply chain, potentially influencing future diplomatic actions.

In the ongoing conflict, Ukraine’s use of captured Russian military equipment stands as a testament to their ingenuity and determination. While there may be limitations in fully utilizing these assets, their strategic deployment contributes to Ukraine’s defense and highlights the country’s ability to adapt to the challenging circumstances they face. As the conflict continues, Ukraine’s bold strategy serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, innovation and resilience can help overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges.

• russia ukraine