KYIV (Reuters)-The Ukrainian military, which has so far relied on obsolete Soviet-era weapons, receives significant military support in the form of modern Western weaponry. As Ukraine prepares to fight back against Russian aggression, analysts are weighing the benefits these new weapons offer. This article reviews the capabilities of these weapons, from long-range rocket launchers and improved air defense systems to advanced artillery and sophisticated tanks, and examines the training and training of the Ukrainian military in shaping the outcome of the conflict. Emphasizes the important role of experience.
As Ukraine prepares to fight back against Russian aggression, the introduction of new Western weaponry has significantly boosted its military capabilities. Before the invasion, Ukrainian forces relied primarily on Soviet-era weapons, but with billions of dollars of military aid pouring into the country, the tide is turning. Analysts are cautious about the impact of such advanced weapons on Ukraine’s ability to counter Russia. George Barros, a Russia analyst at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said Ukraine is now better equipped to wage a total war than it was in the early stages of Russia’s aggression.
One of his standout weapons in the spotlight is the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), a US-made high-performance rocket launcher. HIMARS will provide the Ukrainian Armed Forces with the ability to hit targets at long range with greater accuracy than those developed by the Soviet Union. In a recent counterattack, HIMARS played a key role in destroying a bridge near Kherson, cutting off Russian forces and cutting off supply lines. However, Ukraine has expressed the need to launch long-range missiles using HIMARS, and the United States and its allies are reluctant to do so.
In the area of air defense, Ukraine received Patriot and Avenger systems from the West to counter Russia’s relentless missile attacks. Patriot missiles can defend against large-scale ballistic missile attacks, but simpler weapons are used to counter the cheap, slow-flying Iranian detonation drones frequently deployed by Russia. . Despite these new air defense systems, Ukraine still faces the challenge of defending its territory against Russia’s daily attacks.
Artillery systems play an important role in any war, and Ukraine is increasing its artillery capabilities. Using the American M777 and German Panzerhaubitze 2000 howitzers, the Ukrainian Army has improved accuracy and striking power compared to the original weapon. These systems are heavily used in the ongoing Battle of Zaporizhia, where the initial stages of the counteroffensive are taking place.
The “penetration” of tanks and armored vehicles is considered crucial to breaking through Russian lines through Ukraine. Ukraine’s new tanks, including several models of the German Leopard and British Challenger, are more advanced and sophisticated than his T-64 and T-72 tanks from the Soviet Union he had previously relied on. With good armor and attack power, these tanks surpass Russian tanks. In addition, the United States supplies Bradley combat vehicles with improved protection and firepower compared to Soviet-era armored vehicles deployed in Ukraine.
While the importance of modern weapons cannot be underestimated, the training and experience of the Ukrainian Armed Forces have proven to be a key factor in their success. Ukrainian forces are trained in infantry tactics and special equipment such as Challenger 2 tanks in Britain, Germany and neighboring countries. This combination of advanced weaponry and skilled personnel makes the Ukrainian Army a formidable force on the battlefield, consistently exceeding expectations.
The impact of these new Western weapons remains to be seen as Ukraine launches a counteroffensive. But the combination of advances in armaments and the determination and skill of the Ukrainian military could turn things in our favour. The stage is set for Ukraine conflict
