Imagine finding a hidden Russian arsenal, only to uncover a peculiar sight - horses and old cars! This is exactly what a Ukrainian drone pilot, Cosmos, encountered. In a fascinating twist, this discovery sheds light on Russia's unconventional warfare tactics.
Cosmos, a skilled drone pilot with the Wild Division, was on a mission to locate and neutralize Russian logistics hubs. Little did he expect to find a farmer's garage instead of the typical military arsenal. Inside the ruined warehouse, Cosmos' drone revealed four civilian cars, motorcycles, and even horses with bridles.
"We were taken aback; it was certainly unexpected," Cosmos shared with Business Insider. "We anticipated armored vehicles, not this unique setup."
The video of this discovery went viral in Ukraine, highlighting the increasing use of unconventional transport by Russian soldiers. From pack animals to bicycles, these methods have raised eyebrows and sparked questions about Russia's tactics and equipment production.
Cosmos' squad mates and officers from the Wild Division, part of the 82nd Air Assault Brigade, had encountered similar scenes before. They recalled a famous incident in Zaporizhzhia where a Ukrainian drone crew attacked Russian infantry on horseback. For Cosmos, it was his first personal encounter with animals on the front lines.
"The enemy often hides close to these locations, and it's our duty to check all targets," Cosmos explained. "Sometimes we spot their infantry or vehicles."
The commander of Cosmos' battalion, Major Fizruk, was equally surprised by the discovery. He believed it to be a transport vehicle hub, but the presence of horses and cars suggested a different strategy.
"It could indicate a shortage of standard resources, but it also reflects Russia's attritional style of fighting," Fizruk said. The cars, identified as Nivas from the Russian Lada brand, are inexpensive and disposable, unlike the Hummers used by the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
"They view these as losses, so why spend $20,000 on one vehicle when you can buy 10 Nivas for the same price?" Fizruk questioned.
This strategy, combined with the Kremlin's pressure on the front line with repeated ground assaults, has led to massive losses. NATO estimates up to 25,000 Russian troops are dying each month. To sustain this war, Moscow has turned to informal recruitment and weapons procurement, including hiring troops from abroad and receiving ammunition from North Korea.
So, what do you think? Is this a clever strategy or a sign of desperation? Share your thoughts in the comments!
