“The machine gun of 1914 has evolved into the drone of today — making 2022’s battlefield remarkably transparent.”
Introduction
In the ever-changing landscape of global security, nations continually adapt to emerging challenges and threats. In this part, we will discuss a possible comprehensive strategy, focusing on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as a primary source of lessons identified and learned. The aim is not only enhancing operational capabilities but also establish a proactive approach to potential conflicts through efficient processes and innovation.
The possible objectives of such approach are twofold: first, to gain valuable lessons for the development of combat-ready forces specifically geared towards confronting possible key opponents in the Euro-Atlantic region, and second, to establish a robust framework in peacetime that ensures swift adaptability and innovation in the event of conflict. The ultimate goal is to be well-prepared and proactive, preventing any lapse in deterrence.
Efficiency and Speed
In the process of learning, emphasis is on efficiency, however the risk lays in the delicate balance of becoming faster in analysing and implementing lessons learned without expanding resources. Amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, we may see a unique opportunity to study the effectiveness of equipment and training in real-time.
To keep such process running, we might rely on three primary sources of information: lessons identified from evaluations (i.e. conducted by an Intelligence division of the army), insights from training activities with Ukrainian soldiers, and exchange with allied departments. This comprehensive approach ensures a well-rounded understanding of both sides of the conflict and contributes to a holistic learning process.
LL/LI Process – and its challenges
However, there are challenges in processing the wealth of information we receive. Following a NATO-standard lessons identified-lessons learned process, observations are developed into structured descriptions with conclusions. The key challenge lies in handling the sheer volume of data and transforming it into actionable lessons that can contribute to capability development.
Contributing to Capability Development
The potential approach may be solved by two main pillars of capability development. The first involves sharing of the collected information (i. e. in form of publication of ‘Learning from Operation”). The second, a less visible but broader aspect, involves a comprehensive database that feeds lessons learned process, allowing for continuous improvement.
The German Army’s approach to capability development is supported by the dissemination of collected and analysed information aimed at selected users, and the database of lessons and observations
German Army – Lessons identified
In the wake of the conflict in Ukraine, the German Army has undergone a thorough examination of its tactical approaches, particularly at the operational and tactical level. Key observations have led to crucial insights, influencing decisions across various domains.
One major focus has been on the role of drones, which now serve dual purposes as sensors and reconnaissance tools for situational awareness, target acquisition, and effective target engagement. The transparency of the modern battlefield is simply undeniable, prompting strategic adaptations in mobility, protection, reduction of electronic signatures, and camouflage measures.
The importance of air defence, particularly in low-level airspace, has become apparent. Electronic warfare (EW) has played a significant role in disrupting communication connections and destroying command posts, showing its importance in the contemporary battlefield. An important aspect has been the transparency achieved in identifying command posts remotely while combining capabilities of UAS and EW devices. The integration of EW capabilities has played a vital role in countering the constant threat posed by UAS.
Destroyed Russian army position (13 March 2022) reveals that the Russian command post configuration of vehicles and structures in the early stages of the invasion closely resemble most current NATO troops command post configurations. (Credit: Ukrainian Armed Forces)
Logistics has also come under scrutiny, with significant emphasis on flexibility, performance, and adapting logistics to diverse threats.
Human factors, including independent mission command and effective communication under the guidance of higher command, have been identified as crucial elements for success based on experiences in Ukraine.
The assessment of armour losses has highlighted vulnerabilities, not only due to drone attacks but also because of operational mistakes, poor maintenance, and design failures. The need for a comprehensive approach that combines force operations, infantry support, and effective use of available capabilities has been identified.
Concerning the current gaps in air defence, the potential benefits of integrating man-portable air-defence systems (MANPADS) into the German land force has been identified. These systems are seen as highly effective against aircrafts, helicopters, and UAS, providing cost-effective and efficient protection.
The use of artillery by Russian forces is a significant factor, with extensive artillery fire preceding offensive activities. The differences in ammunition consumption between Russia and Ukraine have prompted to introduce protective measures for their stocks (especially against UAS), as well as importance of reducing the electromagnetic signature of their artillery units.
Key takeaways:
Adaptation to Global Security: Nations must adapt to evolving security challenges, using the Ukraine conflict for valuable insights.
Comprehensive Strategy Objectives: Develop combat-ready forces. Establish a robust peacetime framework for adaptability. Ensure proactive deterrence.
Efficient Learning: Emphasize efficiency in analysing real-time lessons. Balancing speed without overextending resources is crucial.
Information Sources: Lessons from evaluations, training with Ukrainian soldiers, and allied exchanges provide a well-rounded perspective.
Capability Development: Share information through publications and maintain a comprehensive database.
Tactical Adaptations: Focus on drones, air defence, electronic warfare, logistics, human factors, and artillery considerations.
Drones in Focus: Dual use as sensors and reconnaissance tools. Adaptations in mobility, protection, and camouflage due to battlefield transparency.
Air Defence and Electronic Warfare: Importance in low-level airspace defence. Electronic warfare disrupts communications and targets command posts.
Logistics and Human Factors: Logistics flexibility and human factors like independent mission command are crucial.
Armour Vulnerabilities: Identified vulnerabilities require a comprehensive approach.
Air Defence Gaps and MANPADS Integration: Consideration of MANPADS integration to address air defence gaps.
Artillery Considerations: Russian extensive artillery use prompts protective measures and reducing electromagnetic signatures.
07. LESSONS LEARNED – AND DID WE (NATO) REALLY?
Introduction
In the ever-changing landscape of global security, nations continually adapt to emerging challenges and threats. In this part, we will discuss a possible comprehensive strategy, focusing on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as a primary source of lessons identified and learned. The aim is not only enhancing operational capabilities but also establish a proactive approach to potential conflicts through efficient processes and innovation.
The possible objectives of such approach are twofold: first, to gain valuable lessons for the development of combat-ready forces specifically geared towards confronting possible key opponents in the Euro-Atlantic region, and second, to establish a robust framework in peacetime that ensures swift adaptability and innovation in the event of conflict. The ultimate goal is to be well-prepared and proactive, preventing any lapse in deterrence.
Efficiency and Speed
In the process of learning, emphasis is on efficiency, however the risk lays in the delicate balance of becoming faster in analysing and implementing lessons learned without expanding resources. Amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, we may see a unique opportunity to study the effectiveness of equipment and training in real-time.
To keep such process running, we might rely on three primary sources of information: lessons identified from evaluations (i.e. conducted by an Intelligence division of the army), insights from training activities with Ukrainian soldiers, and exchange with allied departments. This comprehensive approach ensures a well-rounded understanding of both sides of the conflict and contributes to a holistic learning process.
LL/LI Process – and its challenges
However, there are challenges in processing the wealth of information we receive. Following a NATO-standard lessons identified-lessons learned process, observations are developed into structured descriptions with conclusions. The key challenge lies in handling the sheer volume of data and transforming it into actionable lessons that can contribute to capability development.
Contributing to Capability Development
The potential approach may be solved by two main pillars of capability development. The first involves sharing of the collected information (i. e. in form of publication of ‘Learning from Operation”). The second, a less visible but broader aspect, involves a comprehensive database that feeds lessons learned process, allowing for continuous improvement.
German Army – Lessons identified
In the wake of the conflict in Ukraine, the German Army has undergone a thorough examination of its tactical approaches, particularly at the operational and tactical level. Key observations have led to crucial insights, influencing decisions across various domains.
One major focus has been on the role of drones, which now serve dual purposes as sensors and reconnaissance tools for situational awareness, target acquisition, and effective target engagement. The transparency of the modern battlefield is simply undeniable, prompting strategic adaptations in mobility, protection, reduction of electronic signatures, and camouflage measures.
The importance of air defence, particularly in low-level airspace, has become apparent. Electronic warfare (EW) has played a significant role in disrupting communication connections and destroying command posts, showing its importance in the contemporary battlefield. An important aspect has been the transparency achieved in identifying command posts remotely while combining capabilities of UAS and EW devices. The integration of EW capabilities has played a vital role in countering the constant threat posed by UAS.
Logistics has also come under scrutiny, with significant emphasis on flexibility, performance, and adapting logistics to diverse threats.
Human factors, including independent mission command and effective communication under the guidance of higher command, have been identified as crucial elements for success based on experiences in Ukraine.
The assessment of armour losses has highlighted vulnerabilities, not only due to drone attacks but also because of operational mistakes, poor maintenance, and design failures. The need for a comprehensive approach that combines force operations, infantry support, and effective use of available capabilities has been identified.
Concerning the current gaps in air defence, the potential benefits of integrating man-portable air-defence systems (MANPADS) into the German land force has been identified. These systems are seen as highly effective against aircrafts, helicopters, and UAS, providing cost-effective and efficient protection.
The use of artillery by Russian forces is a significant factor, with extensive artillery fire preceding offensive activities. The differences in ammunition consumption between Russia and Ukraine have prompted to introduce protective measures for their stocks (especially against UAS), as well as importance of reducing the electromagnetic signature of their artillery units.
Key takeaways: