Battles erupting and intimidation in the dense woodlands of Ukraine's forest conflict
In the heart of the Donbas region, the Serebryansky Forest has become a battleground in the ongoing conflict between Russian troops and Ukrainian forces. For three consecutive years, the forest has been under fire, with the constant burning reducing the effectiveness of technology like acoustic sensors.
Despite the challenges, the Ukrainian battalion has managed to hold its ground remarkably well. Over two years of fighting, they have only lost 1.7km (1 mile) of ground in the area. This resilience can be attributed to their innovative tactics and the support they receive from organisations like Dignitas Ukraine, which trains robotics operators to address risks from intensive use of FPV drones and high material consumption.
The Serebryansky Forest's dense foliage provides a natural shield, making enemy radio signals less reliable. This makes it difficult for Russian troops to communicate effectively, adding to the challenges they face in infiltrating Ukrainian defenses.
Russian troops have been attempting to slip into the rear and hide during assaults, avoiding direct contact and moving along tree lines, small orchards, and little groves. However, their tactics have not gone unnoticed. The Ukrainian battalion uses ancient techniques, such as listening for sounds in the forest, to detect fiber-optic drones.
Improvised 'fish nets' have been set up along the front as a countermeasure against air strikes, especially by fiber-optic drones. These drones, often large models carrying 7-10kg of explosives, have been effective in halting Russian attacks and destroying enemy equipment. In a recent two-week period, the unit has killed 214 Russian soldiers and injured another 26.
The fighting has taken a toll on the civilians who have chosen to stay behind. Some tend their gardens amid the heavy fighting, surviving with basic resources like chickens, well water, and solar panels. Tragically, in one case, an elderly man was shot by the Russians while driving a small tractor, and his neighbours buried him in their garden.
As the conflict continues, Russian troops, led by Vladimir Putin, have stated their intention to seize the Donbas region within four months. However, the resilience and resourcefulness of the Ukrainian battalion, combined with the support of organisations like Dignitas Ukraine, suggest that the battle for the Serebryansky Forest will be a long and arduous one.
The battalion consumes 50-60 FPV drones a day to sustain their operations. To transport the necessary materiel, pickup trucks must carry about 300kg at a time. Despite the high cost in terms of drones and material, the benefits in terms of lives saved and ground held are clear.
As the battle rages on, the Serebryansky Forest stands as a testament to the determination of both sides in this conflict. The fight for control of the forest, and by extension, the Donbas region, continues to be a significant part of the broader struggle for Ukraine's sovereignty.
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