Terrifying Moments: Ukraine Drones Destroy Russian Troops Near Avdiivka

In 2022, the Kremlin can afford to lose about 50 tanks per month without depleting its overall arsenal of around 3,000 frontline tanks. However, currently the Russians are losing 60 tanks per month, and that number may increase as the 239th tank regiment enters battle. The tank units face dangers such as minefields, artillery, and drone kill zones. In October, the Russian Field armies around Avdiivka held back their armor and sent in infantry on foot due to heavy losses.

Ukraine frequently publishes combat footage showing its fleet of drones targeting Russian troops. Ukrainian drones play multiple roles, including reconnaissance, suicide drone strikes, and guiding artillery fire. Kamikaze drones are deployed to target Russian armored vehicles, including main battle tanks. These inexpensive drones made with commercially bought parts have proven to be effective.

Since Russia's invasion in February 2022, Ukraine has been actively developing its drone army, acquiring new airborne vehicles, and fundraising for more. Drones have become crucial in the fighting, with both sides extensively using them around Avdiivka. Russia has lost several armored vehicles and tanks, and the UK Defense Ministry reported that Russian ground forces in Ukraine lost around 365 main battle tanks and 700 armored combat vehicles since early October.

Brigadier General Oleksandr Tarnavskyi shared an image of Russian military vehicles littering the fields around Avdiivka, emphasizing the significant number of knocked-out Russian equipment. The Ukrainian military has repelled 32 attacks around Avdiivka and Marinka.

An update on Tuesday mentioned that Ukraine suffered significant losses, including 310 fighters, two tanks, and three infantry fighting vehicles along the Donetsk front line. Russian forces have marginally advanced on the southeastern outskirts of Avdiivka. The Institute for the Study of War stated on Monday that those who survived the mines, artillery, and drones encountered the Ukrainian Army's 47th mechanized brigade with its American-made M2 fighting vehicles. The 25mm autocannons of these vehicles were devastating against unprotected infantry. The second and 41st SE AA May also plan to bring in more tanks towards Avdiivka. The 239th tank regiment of the 90th tank division is currently concentrated southwest of Avdiivka. According to the Ukrainian think tank, the 239th, which was previously equipped with T72 tanks, suffered significant losses during Russia's failed speedrun toward Kiev and subsequent attempts to halt Ukraine's counteroffensive. The regiment has since been partially re-equipped with newer tanks, but it may now have the strength of a battalion. The Ukrainian defenses in Avdiivka remain stable. The 239th tank regiment is likely to be sacrificed in the ongoing conflict. This situation hinders the Russians from making significant advances and puts them at a disadvantage. Despite the odds, Ukraine's forces have managed to hold their ground and are not falling back. They are preserving their forces and inflicting heavy losses on the Russians with each attack attempt.

SUMMARY

Previously the Kremlin can afford to lose about 50 tanks per month. However, they are currently losing 60 tanks, and this number may rise as the 239th tank regiment enters battle. Russian tank units face various threats, such as minefields, artillery, and drone attacks. Ukrainian drones have proven effective against Russian armored vehicles. They engage in roles like reconnaissance, suicide strikes, and guiding artillery. Ukraine has actively developed its drone army since Russia's invasion. Russia has suffered significant losses, including 365 main battle tanks and 700 armored vehicles in Ukraine. The Ukrainian military successfully repelled 32 attacks near Avdiivka and Marinka. Despite these losses, Ukraine's forces, equipped with American-made M2 fighting vehicles, are holding their ground. The 239th tank regiment may be sacrificed to hinder Russian advances and put them at a disadvantage. Ukraine remains resilient, preserving its forces and inflicting heavy losses on the Russians.