Ukraine’s New Combat Model Signals Shift on Front Line
Ukraine is introducing a new model of combat operations that combines drone deployment with infantry manoeuvres, the Defense Ministry said, pointing to recent gains in the south.
Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi said Ukrainian forces regained control of nearly 50 square kilometres of territory in March, continuing advances seen since the start of the year. Drones are playing an increasingly significant role in the conflict, with both sides investing heavily in their development and countermeasures.
The ministry said the new model integrates aerial and ground-based unmanned systems with infantry into a single operational structure. It added that the approach has already delivered results, with large areas in the south retaken since February.
At the same time, Syrskyi said Russia has intensified its offensive along almost the entire 1,200 km front line with the onset of spring. The heaviest fighting is taking place near Pokrovsk and in the areas of Oleksandrivka, Kostyantynivka and Lyman.
Meanwhile, Russia said it had captured another village in the north-east. Ukraine continues to strike Russian military and industrial targets.