06. UKRAINIAN AIR DEFENCE STRATEGIES AGAINST THE RUSSIAN INVASION
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In the face of an unexpected and intense Russian invasion, Ukraine has demonstrated remarkable resilience. The ongoing conflict, marked by Russian air assaults on key targets, has prompted a analysis of the defence strategies employed by Ukraine. In this article, we will elaborate on Ukraine’s response to the invasion, the challenges faced and the innovative approaches adopted.
During the initial moments of the invasion, the Russian air attacks on Vaslikov airfield, Boryspil International airport and critical infrastructure were conducted. The invasion, contrary to initial beliefs, caught many off-guard, leading to a critical evaluation of the preparedness of the Ukrainian forces. Strategic miscalculations were acknowledged, with some officers underestimating the seriousness of the situation. However, key commanders prevented a complete defeat fully utilising manoeuvrability. The ability to reposition troops proved pivotal, disrupting the enemy’s strategy planning to destroy stationary assets.
Ukraine Air Defence
Ukraine’s strength in air defence comes from its ability to adapt. By frequently changing the positions of their air defence systems, Ukraine avoided being an easy target for Russian attacks. This approach helped keep its air defence almost intact.
Another smart move was spreading out air defence elements. Not all parts of the air defence systems were in one place. Some were actively working, while others were on the move. This strategy made it hard for Russia to find and attack the whole air defence system at once, ensuring it stayed strong during the early conflict days.
The key targets of the Russian invasion as of February 24, 2022, show a variety of axes intended to paralyze Ukrainian defence and cause strategic shock
Russian miscalculations and shift in tactics
At the beginning of the conflict, Russia made critical mistakes. Seemingly, they thought they could win quickly, assuming Ukraine would easily give up. Some Ukrainian experts think Russia wasn’t ready for a longer fight and didn’t understand how strong Ukraine resistance could be. After the first three days, Russia realized things weren’t going as planned. Ukraine didn’t surrender easily. Ukrainian fighter and attack pilots played a big role in stopping Russian advances. This realization marked a shift in how Russia saw the situation.
In a turn of events, Russia’s initial miscalculations in their military operations against Ukraine have led to a strategic shift. With the realization that their attempts to capture capital city Kiev were unsuccessful, Russia altered its plan, focusing on the eastern territories of Ukraine. One of the major challenges for Ukraine was the use of Belarusian territory by Russia to launch strikes. This significantly expanded the scope of the conflict, making defence efforts more complex and challenging for Ukrainian forces.
Ukrainian adaptation and challenges
We could observe impressive evolution of Ukraine’s defense capabilities over the course of the conflict. Initially, the absence of an effective air defense systems left Ukraine vulnerable to Russian airstrikes. However, with time, the efficiency of Ukrainian aviation and defence systems has significantly improved, reaching an impressive 76% effectiveness. Collaboration with American partners has played a crucial role in enhancing the capabilities to counter ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
However, the devastating impact of cruise missiles on civilian infrastructure and the toll on human lives has not been fully eliminated. The struggle to detect low-flying UAVs poses an ongoing challenge for Ukrainian defence forces, underscoring the need for continuous adaptation, innovation, and the importance of international collaborations and technological advancements in addressing the evolving threats
The heart of Ukraine’s defence strategy lies in countering ballistic targets, cruise missiles, and UAVs. Mobile defence groups equipped with mounted machine guns are a key element, demonstrating efficiency in intercepting low-flying threats, particularly the Shaheed UAVs. The evolving challenges are modifications to these UAVs, with enhanced camouflage and an extended range, requiring constant adaptation from the Ukrainian defence forces.
The defence against cruise missiles is equally challenging, with Ukrainian jet fighter pilots struggling with the complexities of detection and interception. Russia’s electronic warfare systems pose challenges, making it difficult for pilots to outmanoeuvre the missiles successfully.
However, Ukrainian engineers have showcased their innovation with an acoustic protection system, a sound-based identification system spread across the entire territory. This technological advancement has proven effective in detecting targets, providing critical information to enhance the overall air defence network. Additionally, visual observation by soldiers and the contributions of radio-technical troops play a crucial role in gathering intelligence and responding effectively.
Mobile air defence groups, armed with machine guns and man-portable air-defence systems (manpads), emerge as cost-effective and efficient tools against dangerous targets. The importance of warning systems, international cooperation, and military support from Western countries is underscored as pivotal elements in Ukraine’s ability to navigate and counter the ongoing threats posed by Russia.Electronic warfare is acknowledged as a challenge posed by Russia, but Ukrainian forces aim to bypass it when possible. The use of false objects proves efficient in confusing Russian detection systems, contributing to the overall strategy of countering electronic warfare.
High-mobility units, equipped with MANPADs and controlled by territorial defence, have proven their high effectiveness, especially in the early stages of the conflict. When equipped with heavy machine guns, these units are also able to successfully interdict low-flying unmanned aerial systems (UAS) (Credit: Ukrainian Armed Forces)
Air assets capabilities comparison
When comparing the air forces of Ukraine and Russia at the onset of the war, it’s evident that Russia possesses more aircraft. However, the effectiveness of these aircraft relies on how they are utilized.
Ukrainian pilots, despite lacking combat experience beyond training exercises, have successfully employed strategic tactics against their Russian counterparts. Russian pilots, with combat experience in Syria, undeniably have numerical superiority, but Ukrainian pilots have been able to engage them effectively. Ukrainian pilots have adapted their tactics based on exploiting the knowledge of their terrain and employing ambush strategies. In specific instances, one Ukrainian pilot managed to engage and outmanoeuvre four or five Russian pilots. The conflict also highlights the importance of Western weapon systems, such as AGM-88 HARM, Storm Shadows, and GBUs. These systems have proven effective against Russian air defence and electronic warfare (EW) systems.
The use of HIMARS rockets adds another layer to Ukrainian tactics. By launching HIMARS rockets, Ukrainians force the enemy to engage with their air defence systems. When the enemy turns off their systems to protect them, Ukrainian tactical aviation capitalizes on the opportunity to strike. The cycle continues as Ukrainian forces employ AGM-88 HARM rockets to destroy Russian air defence systems when they are switched on. (Credit: Ukrainian Armed Forces)
Initially, Ukrainian pilots targeted Russian troops directly, flying over Russia to drop bombs and launch missiles. However, after facing losses from Russia’s PANZIR air defense system, Ukraine adapted its strategy to launch missiles from a distance to protect pilots’ lives. Ukrainian aviation resources are strategically allocated based on operational tasks, with the first stage prioritized due to the lack of a strong Russian air defense system.
Drones emerge as a powerful weapon, but the challenge lies in balancing cost and efficiency. Ukraine’s UAV specialists focus on hitting specific targets, prioritizing especially tanks and EW units. Highly important is the adaptability of Ukrainian forces, learning from other countries’ experiences with drones.
Manned and unmanned aviation combined: Snake Island case study
The operation to protect Snake Islands is showcase of the collaboration between manned and unmanned aviation to maximize effectiveness and minimize pilot risk.
On June 17 2022, Ukraine targeted the Russian tug Spasatel Vasily Bekh with two Harpoon missiles, preventing it from delivering crucial supplies to an island. Russia claimed 10 crew members were missing and 23 injured. Subsequent Ukrainian strikes on gas platforms near the island included attacks on military vehicles, anti-aircraft, and radar systems, likely Pantsir-S1. On June 27, Ukrainian forces conducted precision strikes, reportedly destroying a second Pantsir-S1. Russian officials denied the system’s destruction and countered with claims of Pantsir intercepting rockets. Ongoing attacks and disruption of resupply made Russia’s position unsustainable. Ukrainian officials reported Russian Air Force attacks on rocket positions, with no reported casualties. The situation suggested an ongoing effort by Ukraine to reclaim the island.
High precision strikes of TB2 drones enabled to disable Russian air defence systems and create conditions for air interception with subsequent landing operation by Ukrainian forces (Credit: Ukrainian Armed Forces)
Ukraine’s usage of the TB2 drones to attack Snake Island has highlighted the increased importance of drone warfare and the reputation of TB2’s service record. The initial success using the TB2s stunned some observers. However, the scenario at Snake Island offered the perfect environment for such a system. The drone enjoyed a lack of redundant medium to long-range air defence systems since all the air defence systems deployed on the island were short-range systems (SHORADS), while the Russian forces were also unable to establish Combat Air Patrols (CAP) by fighter jets over the island. As such, after the sinking of the Moskva missile cruiser and the withdrawal of the Black Sea Fleet, the island was effectively cut out of the Russian air defence bubble. Secondary elements in the initial success included the TB2 being a modular design allowing it to be assembled and disassembled quickly in areas where larger aircraft or UAVs can’t operate. This would make it easier for the drones to avoid destruction when Russian forces strike Ukrainian air bases.
Conclusion
Faced with a sudden and intense Russian invasion, Ukraine has shown strength, adapting to challenges with smart tactics. The initial air attacks on key infrastructure led to a rethink of how ready Ukraine was, but smart moves by commanders prevented a total defeat.
Ukraine’s way of defending against air threats, by frequently changing positions and spreading out, kept them up and running. However, even with improvements and help from western partners, Ukraine still faces challenges like dealing with cruise missiles and spotting low-flying drones.
As for the drones, as seen on Snake Island, it is shown how well manned and unmanned aviation can work together. Ukraine’s ability to change and learn is crucial in modern warfare, showing why innovation and help from other countries are so important against unexpected challenges from Russia.
Key Takeaways:
Adaptive Air Defence Strategies: Ukraine has displayed resilience and adaptability in its air defence strategies, focusing on frequent repositioning of air defence systems and spreading them out to avoid being an easy target for Russian attacks.
Ukrainian Defence Evolution: Despite initial vulnerabilities, Ukraine’s defines capabilities have evolved impressively during the conflict. The efficiency of Ukrainian aviation and defence systems has improved, with collaboration with Western partners playing a crucial role in countering Russian air threats.
Challenges and Continuous Adaptation: Ukraine faces ongoing challenges in countering cruise missiles, UAVs, and electronic warfare from Russia. Continuous adaptation, innovation, and international collaborations are emphasized as essential elements in addressing these evolving threats.
Efficiency of Mobile Defense Groups: equipped with mounted machine guns and MANPADs, these groups have proven cost-effective and efficient in intercepting low-flying threats. Warning systems, international cooperation, and military support from Western countries are highlighted as pivotal elements.
Drone Warfare and Collaboration: Ukraine’s use of drones, especially in the Snake Island case study, highlights the increasing importance of drone warfare. The collaboration between manned and unmanned aviation is crucial for maximizing effectiveness and minimizing pilot risk.
Innovation and Learning in Modern Warfare: Ukraine’s ability to change and learn from experiences, combined with innovation, is crucial in modern warfare. The importance of international support and collaboration in facing unexpected challenges from Russia is evident.
06. UKRAINIAN AIR DEFENCE STRATEGIES AGAINST THE RUSSIAN INVASION
In the face of an unexpected and intense Russian invasion, Ukraine has demonstrated remarkable resilience. The ongoing conflict, marked by Russian air assaults on key targets, has prompted a analysis of the defence strategies employed by Ukraine. In this article, we will elaborate on Ukraine’s response to the invasion, the challenges faced and the innovative approaches adopted.
During the initial moments of the invasion, the Russian air attacks on Vaslikov airfield, Boryspil International airport and critical infrastructure were conducted. The invasion, contrary to initial beliefs, caught many off-guard, leading to a critical evaluation of the preparedness of the Ukrainian forces. Strategic miscalculations were acknowledged, with some officers underestimating the seriousness of the situation. However, key commanders prevented a complete defeat fully utilising manoeuvrability. The ability to reposition troops proved pivotal, disrupting the enemy’s strategy planning to destroy stationary assets.
Ukraine Air Defence
Ukraine’s strength in air defence comes from its ability to adapt. By frequently changing the positions of their air defence systems, Ukraine avoided being an easy target for Russian attacks. This approach helped keep its air defence almost intact.
Another smart move was spreading out air defence elements. Not all parts of the air defence systems were in one place. Some were actively working, while others were on the move. This strategy made it hard for Russia to find and attack the whole air defence system at once, ensuring it stayed strong during the early conflict days.
Russian miscalculations and shift in tactics
At the beginning of the conflict, Russia made critical mistakes. Seemingly, they thought they could win quickly, assuming Ukraine would easily give up. Some Ukrainian experts think Russia wasn’t ready for a longer fight and didn’t understand how strong Ukraine resistance could be. After the first three days, Russia realized things weren’t going as planned. Ukraine didn’t surrender easily. Ukrainian fighter and attack pilots played a big role in stopping Russian advances. This realization marked a shift in how Russia saw the situation.
In a turn of events, Russia’s initial miscalculations in their military operations against Ukraine have led to a strategic shift. With the realization that their attempts to capture capital city Kiev were unsuccessful, Russia altered its plan, focusing on the eastern territories of Ukraine. One of the major challenges for Ukraine was the use of Belarusian territory by Russia to launch strikes. This significantly expanded the scope of the conflict, making defence efforts more complex and challenging for Ukrainian forces.
Ukrainian adaptation and challenges
We could observe impressive evolution of Ukraine’s defense capabilities over the course of the conflict. Initially, the absence of an effective air defense systems left Ukraine vulnerable to Russian airstrikes. However, with time, the efficiency of Ukrainian aviation and defence systems has significantly improved, reaching an impressive 76% effectiveness. Collaboration with American partners has played a crucial role in enhancing the capabilities to counter ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
However, the devastating impact of cruise missiles on civilian infrastructure and the toll on human lives has not been fully eliminated. The struggle to detect low-flying UAVs poses an ongoing challenge for Ukrainian defence forces, underscoring the need for continuous adaptation, innovation, and the importance of international collaborations and technological advancements in addressing the evolving threats
The heart of Ukraine’s defence strategy lies in countering ballistic targets, cruise missiles, and UAVs. Mobile defence groups equipped with mounted machine guns are a key element, demonstrating efficiency in intercepting low-flying threats, particularly the Shaheed UAVs. The evolving challenges are modifications to these UAVs, with enhanced camouflage and an extended range, requiring constant adaptation from the Ukrainian defence forces.
The defence against cruise missiles is equally challenging, with Ukrainian jet fighter pilots struggling with the complexities of detection and interception. Russia’s electronic warfare systems pose challenges, making it difficult for pilots to outmanoeuvre the missiles successfully.
However, Ukrainian engineers have showcased their innovation with an acoustic protection system, a sound-based identification system spread across the entire territory. This technological advancement has proven effective in detecting targets, providing critical information to enhance the overall air defence network. Additionally, visual observation by soldiers and the contributions of radio-technical troops play a crucial role in gathering intelligence and responding effectively.
Mobile air defence groups, armed with machine guns and man-portable air-defence systems (manpads), emerge as cost-effective and efficient tools against dangerous targets. The importance of warning systems, international cooperation, and military support from Western countries is underscored as pivotal elements in Ukraine’s ability to navigate and counter the ongoing threats posed by Russia.Electronic warfare is acknowledged as a challenge posed by Russia, but Ukrainian forces aim to bypass it when possible. The use of false objects proves efficient in confusing Russian detection systems, contributing to the overall strategy of countering electronic warfare.
Air assets capabilities comparison
When comparing the air forces of Ukraine and Russia at the onset of the war, it’s evident that Russia possesses more aircraft. However, the effectiveness of these aircraft relies on how they are utilized.
Ukrainian pilots, despite lacking combat experience beyond training exercises, have successfully employed strategic tactics against their Russian counterparts. Russian pilots, with combat experience in Syria, undeniably have numerical superiority, but Ukrainian pilots have been able to engage them effectively. Ukrainian pilots have adapted their tactics based on exploiting the knowledge of their terrain and employing ambush strategies. In specific instances, one Ukrainian pilot managed to engage and outmanoeuvre four or five Russian pilots. The conflict also highlights the importance of Western weapon systems, such as AGM-88 HARM, Storm Shadows, and GBUs. These systems have proven effective against Russian air defence and electronic warfare (EW) systems.
Initially, Ukrainian pilots targeted Russian troops directly, flying over Russia to drop bombs and launch missiles. However, after facing losses from Russia’s PANZIR air defense system, Ukraine adapted its strategy to launch missiles from a distance to protect pilots’ lives. Ukrainian aviation resources are strategically allocated based on operational tasks, with the first stage prioritized due to the lack of a strong Russian air defense system.
Drones emerge as a powerful weapon, but the challenge lies in balancing cost and efficiency. Ukraine’s UAV specialists focus on hitting specific targets, prioritizing especially tanks and EW units. Highly important is the adaptability of Ukrainian forces, learning from other countries’ experiences with drones.
Manned and unmanned aviation combined: Snake Island case study
The operation to protect Snake Islands is showcase of the collaboration between manned and unmanned aviation to maximize effectiveness and minimize pilot risk.
On June 17 2022, Ukraine targeted the Russian tug Spasatel Vasily Bekh with two Harpoon missiles, preventing it from delivering crucial supplies to an island. Russia claimed 10 crew members were missing and 23 injured. Subsequent Ukrainian strikes on gas platforms near the island included attacks on military vehicles, anti-aircraft, and radar systems, likely Pantsir-S1. On June 27, Ukrainian forces conducted precision strikes, reportedly destroying a second Pantsir-S1. Russian officials denied the system’s destruction and countered with claims of Pantsir intercepting rockets. Ongoing attacks and disruption of resupply made Russia’s position unsustainable. Ukrainian officials reported Russian Air Force attacks on rocket positions, with no reported casualties. The situation suggested an ongoing effort by Ukraine to reclaim the island.
Ukraine’s usage of the TB2 drones to attack Snake Island has highlighted the increased importance of drone warfare and the reputation of TB2’s service record. The initial success using the TB2s stunned some observers. However, the scenario at Snake Island offered the perfect environment for such a system. The drone enjoyed a lack of redundant medium to long-range air defence systems since all the air defence systems deployed on the island were short-range systems (SHORADS), while the Russian forces were also unable to establish Combat Air Patrols (CAP) by fighter jets over the island. As such, after the sinking of the Moskva missile cruiser and the withdrawal of the Black Sea Fleet, the island was effectively cut out of the Russian air defence bubble. Secondary elements in the initial success included the TB2 being a modular design allowing it to be assembled and disassembled quickly in areas where larger aircraft or UAVs can’t operate. This would make it easier for the drones to avoid destruction when Russian forces strike Ukrainian air bases.
Conclusion
Faced with a sudden and intense Russian invasion, Ukraine has shown strength, adapting to challenges with smart tactics. The initial air attacks on key infrastructure led to a rethink of how ready Ukraine was, but smart moves by commanders prevented a total defeat.
Ukraine’s way of defending against air threats, by frequently changing positions and spreading out, kept them up and running. However, even with improvements and help from western partners, Ukraine still faces challenges like dealing with cruise missiles and spotting low-flying drones.
As for the drones, as seen on Snake Island, it is shown how well manned and unmanned aviation can work together. Ukraine’s ability to change and learn is crucial in modern warfare, showing why innovation and help from other countries are so important against unexpected challenges from Russia.
Key Takeaways: