Ukrainian gunners turn the tide using captured Russian artillery near Pokrovsk
- Ukrainian gunners near Pokrovsk are employing Russian artillery captured from their adversaries.
- Desperate to fend off daily Russian advances, the Ukrainian unit relies on mobility and drone intelligence.
- Despite heavy bombardment from Russian forces, Pokrovsk remains under Ukrainian control due to strategic defensive measures.
In Ukraine, the 25th Airborne Brigade has been actively defending their position near Pokrovsk amidst continuous Russian military advances. This unit has notably began using artillery pieces initially produced for and left by the Russian military, such as the Msta-S cannon. Operating under extreme pressure, they carry out their operations with remarkable mobility, employing tactics like camouflage and drone surveillance to identify and hit enemy positions while constantly shifting locations to avoid counterattacks. The situation around Pokrovsk has grown increasingly critical, with Russian forces progressively closing in since July 2024. These advances, despite being met with fierce resistance, signify one of the significant territorial gains for Russia in recent months, as they engage in frequent skirmishes with Ukrainian forces along the eastern front. Ukrainian assessments indicate that more than 100 combat encounters occur daily, underscoring the intensity of the conflict. With concerns over being outgunned in artillery firepower, the Ukrainian soldiers have adapted their strategy to leverage the elements of surprise and intelligence provided by drones. They specifically aim to execute maneuvers during what is termed “the gray zone,” a period when visibility is reduced for drone surveillance. This innovative adaptation allows them to launch surprise strikes on advancing Russian troops and to evade detection during repositioning. Despite facing overwhelming odds, including an estimated ratio of Russian artillery fire being tenfold compared to their own, the Ukrainian defenders have maintained control over Pokrovsk. Their efforts have been successful against small, disorganized groups of Russian troops and vehicles, which often attempt to maneuver through open fields. Continuous use of the seized artillery has proven effective, demonstrating how adaptive resilience in warfare can exploit the enemy’s own equipment against them, potentially turning the tide in localized battles.