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In recent weeks, Russian forces have decreased their use of armored vehicles during assaults on active frontline areas, likely due to significant equipment losses and the depletion of Soviet-era stockpiles.
The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reported this, noting that Russian forces have been employing fewer armored vehicles in assaults on the most active sections of the frontlines. Analysts suggest this is likely an attempt to conserve equipment as Soviet stockpiles dwindle.
“Russian forces significantly reduced their use of armored vehicles and mechanized assaults on the Kurakhove axis following substantial equipment losses in October and November 2024. A spokesperson for a Ukrainian brigade operating in this area stated on January 3 that Russian forces have shifted to predominantly using infantry for attacks in the region, employing armored vehicles primarily to provide fire support for infantry assaults.”
On December 31, The New York Times reported that a Ukrainian lieutenant colonel noted an increasing use of electric scooters, motorcycles, and quad bikes by Russian forces during assaults in eastern Ukraine. This may reflect efforts by Russian troops to compensate for the loss of armored vehicles.
Analysts also noted that Russian attacks near medium-sized settlements, such as Kurakhove and Pokrovsk, may be less favorable for deploying armored vehicles compared to smaller settlements and open fields, where Russian forces advanced for much of 2024.
“Russian forces may further reduce their use of armored vehicles on the Kurakhove and Pokrovsk axes if Russian command aims to rearm forward units while avoiding withdrawing troops for rest and recovery. Such a tactic could further slow Russian advances on priority sections of the frontlines,” the report concludes.
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