and Germany, in addition to other neighboring countries, Ukrainian forces have been trained on infantry tactics and on certain specialized equipment, such as the Challenger-2 tanks. The Ukrainians “have demonstrated the ability to not only master the equipment and tactics, but to be able to do things nobody else has been able to do, as demonstrated by their (air defense) wizardry,” Cartier said. Both Barros and Cartier said the experience and training of Ukrainian troops, not just the weapons provided by the West, has made them a lethal force.

Perhaps most crucial to Ukraine’s success, however, has been the Ukrainians themselves. The U.S., meanwhile, has sent Bradley fighting vehicles, which offer better protection for troops they carry and have better firepower compared to Soviet-era armored vehicles that Ukraine has used.Īll of these vehicles can inflict high casualties and destroy other weapons systems, making them invaluable for a counteroffensive. with more than three decades of experience. They also have far better armor and can strike more accurately than Russia's tanks, according to Craig Cartier, a retired Soviet Union analyst for the U.S. Tanks delivered thus far - which include multiple models of German Leopards and the British Challengers - are more sophisticated than the Soviet-designed T-64 and T-72 tanks Ukraine relied on at the start of the invasion. Ukraine needs the “punching force” of tanks and other fighting vehicles if it's going to break through Russian lines, Barros said. Ukraine had plenty of artillery to begin with - but now it has American M777s and German Panzerhaubitze 2000 howitzers, both of which are more accurate and powerful than what it started the war with. Ukrainian forces are making heavy use of artillery in the battles around Zaporizhzhia, where the beginnings of the counteroffensive are unfolding.

Driving them out will require significant artillery.Īrtillery can take out buildings and enemy weapons from reasonable distances and cause such chaos that opposing troops are forced to withdraw. Russian troops have dug themselves in throughout the south and east of the country. Long known as the “King of Battle,” artillery systems are key in any war - but especially the one in Ukraine. “Ukraine would be a lot in a better position for a more decisive victory and success on a shorter timeline if we took these decisions a lot faster,” Barros said.

Military tank destroyer jet