To defeat a stronger and more well-equipped foe like Russia, Ukrainian special operators have developed the ability to fight without the customary logistical assistance.Â
Ukrainian special operators have been learning to fight against Russia without relying on the logistical support that many other militaries are accustomed to. The Ukrainian military has faced logistical challenges throughout the war with Russia, and special operators have adapted their tactics and training to fight against a larger and better-equipped adversary. The Ukrainian armed forces have been preparing for war since Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014, and they have focused on developing well-trained forces that excel in small-unit tactics and basic military skills. Ukrainian special operators prioritize intelligence and fire superiority during operations, even if temporary, to overcome the numerical advantage of the Russians. Although they still face logistical difficulties, such as distribution problems, the Ukrainians have the advantage of fighting on their home turf and have shorter supply lines. They use unconventional methods, non-military vehicles, and drones for resupply, and they employ various communication methods, including satellite phones and encrypted messaging apps, to overcome Russian electronic warfare capabilities. While facing ongoing logistical challenges, Ukrainian special operators benefit from Western military assistance and modern equipment. Their training, battlefield familiarity, and adherence to special-operations principles contribute to their resilience in the ongoing conflict.Â
