Ukrainian military forces are experiencing prolonged deployments at frontline positions due to a shortage of personnel and the increased use of drones, which provide constant battlefield surveillance. Ruslan Habinet, commander of the 5th Separate Heavy Mechanized Brigade, shared these insights in an interview with Radio Svoboda.
Habinet noted that the lack of personnel is a critical issue. He explained that advancements in warfare technology have led to greater transparency on the battlefield, reducing the frequency of assault operations during clear weather. “Both we and the enemy can see everything,” he stated. He emphasized that the primary weapons being utilized are various types of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), which have become the main focus of military strategy, overshadowing traditional artillery.
Due to personnel shortages, new military recruits are primarily assigned to replace those who have been stationed at the front for extended periods. Habinet indicated that this situation directly impacts the brigade’s ability to carry out operational tasks effectively.
He remarked, “This allows the enemy to strengthen their offensive efforts. They are consolidating their positions, advancing further, and overwhelming our defenses with personnel. We are unable to establish additional positions or conduct offensive operations to secure more territory due to the lack of available troops. As it stands, soldiers remain in their positions for 200 days or more.”
Habinet highlighted the toll that such extended deployments take on infantry soldiers, diminishing their resilience in combat. He mentioned that after rotation, soldiers receive support from psychologists and are directed to rehabilitation centers to assist with their recovery.
Regarding the issue of personnel retention, he acknowledged that some soldiers do leave the military, either due to health concerns or personal decisions. However, he stated that the majority choose to remain in service.
According to a study by the Office of the Military Ombudsman, motivation to survive significantly declines after approximately 40 days in position, indicating that extended frontline deployments are not sustainable. Military Ombudsman Olha Reshetylova discussed this in an interview with Ukrainska Pravda, noting that the maximum duration for a soldier’s deployment should not exceed 15 days, as per orders from military leadership.
In light of reports regarding supply issues within the 14th Brigade, Reshetylova confirmed that the Office of the Military Ombudsman is aware of cases involving prolonged deployments. She cited an instance where a commander reported successfully rotating a soldier who had been on duty for 502 days.
Ukrainian troops are facing extended frontline deployments due to personnel shortages and the strategic use of drones. Officials highlight the impact on soldier morale and operational effectiveness, with some soldiers remaining in position for over 500 days.
Source: Radio Svoboda