Ukraine Battlefield Tactics in 2026 and Russian Assault Strategies

Evolving Battlefield Tactics in Ukraine and Russia, 2026

According to military analyst Perun, the battlefield in Ukraine during 2026 has markedly shifted from the dynamics observed in 2022 and 2023. The pace of territorial changes is slower than in the past, with advances by either side, Russia or Ukraine, limited in depth and strategic significance. Rather than rapid gains, the conflict has devolved into an even more drawn-out and attritional struggle.

Perun explains that the evolving pattern of warfare has led to an unusual phenomenon. On one hand, the Ukrainian front line appears more porous than traditional front lines, allowing for infiltration by the Russian forces. Yet, at the same time, it remains resilient. Evidence of Russian positions appearing behind Ukrainian defenses doesn’t necessarily translate into the collapse of the latter. Ukrainian soldiers can continue to fight even while temporarily cut off from their lines of communication.

Rob Lee, a former U.S. Marine Corps infantry officer and military analyst, agrees with Perun, emphasizing the sparsity of the Ukrainian front line compared to traditional notions of trench warfare. Instead of densely packed trenches reminiscent of World War I, Ukrainian positions increasingly resemble a loosely spread network of small, concealed groups. Perun also notes how fortifications and tactics have adapted to withstand the drone-heavy combat environment that defines this stage of the conflict.

Within this dynamic battlefield, Perun points to the challenge of integrating advancements in technology, such as unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and counter-drone measures, alongside traditional infantry and artillery.

Infantry Positions and Defense Techniques

Rob Lee further elaborates on how the nature of infantry's role on the front line has evolved. He identifies a critical distinction: rather than serving as fixed, heavily armed defensive nodes, Ukrainian infantry positions are as much observation posts as they are resistance points. Soldiers are often directed to avoid engaging Russian forces unless there is a clear necessity, thereby reducing their exposure to spotting by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

Lee explains that the sparsity of the Ukrainian "front line" requires a new understanding of what it means to "hold the ground." The previous concept of consolidated, well-manned trench lines no longer applies. Instead, infantry groups now operate as small, tight-knit teams of two to four personnel, stationed in tree lines, forests, or basements, far from open terrain where they could become easy targets for drones. These positions also incorporate redundancy, with nearby alternatives available if primary locations are exposed.

Despite their reduced scale and tactical role, Lee insists that infantry remains an essential component of the war effort. While UAVs assume critical roles in observation and targeting, infantry still act as a fail-safe during instances when weather or other conditions compromise drone operability. Lee recalls a winter operation in which infantry were the first to detect and respond to the approach of a mechanized vehicle, demonstrating their enduring importance despite their diminished engagements in direct combat.

Dmytro Putiata, a veteran of the Ukrainian military’s Special Operations Forces, corroborates Lee's perspective. He emphasizes that while Ukraine’s small infantry units are integral, this evolutionary approach is driven largely by necessity rather than strategic preference. Ukraine lacks the manpower to maintain larger formations, especially in fortified positions, due in part to mobilization challenges and attritional losses.

Putiata illustrates the nature of modern infantry defense with a vivid example. During a five-month battle in a basement held by just four Ukrainian soldiers, Russian forces launched repeated attempts to capture the position as part of their leapfrogging tactic. This approach involved advancing incrementally and securing key positions for resupply. Despite heavy attacks, the small Ukrainian unit held the basement, demonstrating the importance of certain entrenched approaches, even in a war increasingly dominated by technological advances.

Perun used these insights to refute simple comparisons to World War I, reminding listeners that the low density of frontline troops in Ukraine renders such analogies misleading. Unlike the tightly packed trenches of that era, today's positions are closer to distributed networks supported by technological integrations.

Mining and Remote Tactical Advances

Perun transitions to a discussion of how mine deployment has adapted, moving away from the large minefields of earlier phases in the war. He recalls the massive "belt-style" minefields used by Russian forces in 2023, which were intentionally extended in depth to counteract Ukrainian offensives. Such minefields complicated clearing operations, as breaching them required repeated charges from specialized clearance equipment like mine-clearing line charges (MICLICs).

This approach has shifted drastically, as Putiata shares. Remote mining with drones and other systems has become more targeted and refined, prioritizing tactical choke points over expansive minefields. These small-scale minefields, often designed to protect observation posts and positions, require meticulous planning and engineering to maximize their utility. However, Putiata notes that deploying mines too close to defensive positions can backfire, as attacks from first-person-view (FPV) drones and artillery could neutralize the mines before they can serve their defensive function.

Putiata recounts an instance from his own experience where mines were strategically placed near observation posts to hinder Russian advances. The mines were laid in a tree line several hundred meters away from Ukrainian positions, complemented by drone and artillery support. The effectiveness of these approaches has shaped the current thinking on mine deployment, reflecting a departure from older doctrines that favored large standing formations and static defenses. Perun underscores this evolution, observing the broader shift from static warfare towards an approach that relies heavily on adaptability and technology, even in defense-heavy scenarios.

As the conversation progresses, Perun notes that the interplay between infantry, drones, and engineered defenses suggests a maturation of battlefield strategies. Both the reliance on smaller positions and the shift to precise, remote mining demonstrate how each side has adapted to the hybrid challenges of modern warfare. These insights set the stage for a deeper exploration of the technological and logistical factors driving the conflict into its current phase.

Advances in Drone Deployment and Countermeasures

Rob Lee highlights a striking evolution in the use of drones by both Ukraine and Russia in 2026. While drones have garnered significant attention for their battlefield impact, he maintains that their effectiveness is contingent upon the coordination of multiple systems. He emphasizes that drones, while transformative, cannot operate as a standalone force. Early assumptions that drones alone could dominate conflicts or replace the need for traditional firepower have proven incorrect.

Dmytro Putiata agrees, further detailing some of the challenges drones face in real battlefield conditions. He points out that drones are vulnerable to jamming, small arms fire, and adverse weather conditions like fog, heavy rain, and strong winds. In situations where drones struggle to operate, traditional weapon systems like artillery continue to provide reliable results, unaffected by these limitations.

A critical challenge for drone deployment is the reliance on communication systems such as Starlink. Ukrainian forces have advanced their drone warfare capabilities significantly, largely thanks to these systems, but Russian electronic warfare operations to jam such communications have posed serious obstacles. Putiata emphasizes the difficulty of this dynamic, noting that Russia has focused on developing its capabilities to disrupt Ukraine’s reliance on satellite-based systems. He points to Russia’s success in creating mesh communication networks and their ongoing efforts to develop a satellite alternative to Starlink. The Razvet network, though limited, is now operational for certain battlefield applications, with Russian forces working to accelerate its development. Ukraine has responded with targeted strikes on infrastructure supporting Razvet, using guided munitions to delay its progress.

Despite these advances, Lee points out the tactical limitations of some Russian solutions, particularly their mesh modem networks. The system, which involves interconnected drones relaying signals to one another, struggles with maintaining connections over long distances or in low-altitude operations. At the same time, significant efforts have gone into deploying electronic warfare systems by both sides. Ukraine has targeted Russian jammers, which are bulky and often relatively stationary. Russia, on the other hand, remains intent on imposing localized disruptions on Starlink-dependent operations, with varying levels of success.

In discussing Ukraine's advancements, Putiata explains the introduction of synchronized drone swarms and multi-drone operations, which allow operators to hit multiple targets simultaneously. However, he acknowledges that the technology is still developing and not yet scaled to the level imagination might suggest. He contrasts this with Russia's focus on developing its autonomous communication systems and counter-drone strategies, including jamming and small-arms fire from concealed positions.

Putiata underscores the importance of learning how to integrate drones into military operations effectively. Western militaries, he argues, need to study these battlefield lessons carefully, as drones are increasingly playing key roles in targeting, reconnaissance, and even creating battlefield conditions for other systems to thrive.

Artillery’s Role in Conventional and Modern Warfare

Rob Lee asserts that artillery remains a cornerstone of modern warfare and serves as an essential complement to drone operations. He stresses that combining conventional firepower with unmanned aerial systems (UAS) enables comprehensive battlefield capabilities. This integration allows for precision targeting and reduces the ammunition expenditure needed for effective strikes. For instance, incorporating drones into artillery operations can cut the number of shells needed to eliminate a target significantly, enhancing both efficiency and effectiveness.

Dmytro Putiata shares his experience, explaining that the combination of drones and artillery forms the backbone of Ukraine's current battlefield strategy. Drones often perform reconnaissance and locate targets, while artillery provides suppression and delivers the firepower necessary to neutralize enemy positions. He stresses that it is not feasible to rely on drones alone, given their vulnerabilities to weather, jamming, and small arms fire. Instead, the Ukrainian military uses drones and artillery in tandem to overcome these weaknesses.

Both guests draw comparisons to earlier conflicts to illustrate the enduring value of artillery. Lee discusses the combat experience during the North Korean involvement in 2024, where Ukrainian forces initially suffered heavy losses due to a lack of artillery support and enemy dominance in drone surveillance. Once Ukrainian artillery came into play, the dynamics shifted dramatically, and the opposing forces began to incur heavy casualties.

The adaptability of both sides also becomes apparent when discussing artillery's evolving role, considering counter-battery threats and the adoption of unmanned reconnaissance tools. Putiata highlights how Ukrainian and Russian forces have adjusted to minimize exposure and maximize the tactical impact of their firepower. For example, both sides now deploy drones for counter-battery operations, with Russia using fixed-wing first-person-view (FPV) drones and fiber-optic systems to improve the precision of their returns and mitigate risks.

In detailing the integration of drones and artillery on the Ukrainian front, Lee describes several operational scenarios. He references the recent defensive maneuvers of the Azov Corps against Russian and proxy forces, where artillery proved critical. During a specific engagement involving tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, and motorcycles, artillery utilizing advanced munitions like Dual-Purpose Improved Conventional Munitions (DPICM) caused panic and forced enemy retreat. This example underscores the psychological and physical impact of heavy bombardment, which drones alone cannot achieve.

Both Lee and Putiata also discuss the role of artillery and drones in laying mines on the battlefield. Artillery can deploy minefields more rapidly than drones, disrupting mechanized and infantry formations during an attack. Putiata adds that this kind of remote mining has become a critical element of modern warfare, as it allows defenders to adapt quickly to tactical threats like advancing Russian units.

Despite the advancements in UAS technology, Putiata emphasizes that effective military strategies still rely on using all available capabilities in combination. He calls on military planners, especially those in Western nations, to consider how best to integrate traditional and emerging technologies to create balanced forces capable of addressing a range of threats. Lee agrees, arguing that the ability to leverage combined arms, such as coordinating between artillery, drones, infantry, and other assets, is fundamental to Ukraine's effectiveness on the battlefield. He concludes with the observation that, while drones are undeniably revolutionary, they function best when paired with conventional firepower and other systems.

Operational Challenges: Logistics and Casualty Management

Rob Lee, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and military analyst, underscores the inherent complexity of fielding self-propelled guns (SPGs) like the Polish Krab, which, while highly valued for their capabilities, are significantly more vulnerable to logistical and mechanical disruptions than towed artillery. He recounts an anecdote involving the Krab's transmission system breaking down and requiring a replacement part from an American manufacturer, with an estimated delivery time of 18 months. Such delays force Ukrainian forces to improvise with temporary solutions to keep these advanced systems operational. In contrast, older artillery systems, such as the M777 howitzer, are revealed to have far fewer critical components, making them more easily repairable and less susceptible to extended downtime.

Lee outlines the trade-offs between modern SPGs and older systems: while the former are generally more mobile, heavily armored, and capable of rapid "shoot-and-scoot" operations, they depend heavily on a robust supply chain for spare parts and technical expertise. Towed artillery, although less mobile, is simpler, cheaper, and often more available, making it a complementary asset, especially as armies face the long-term wear and tear of sustained warfare.

Dmytro Putiata, a Ukrainian military analyst, adds his perspective, noting that in the initial stages of the conflict, Ukraine's artillery forces largely consisted of towed guns, whereas Russia started with a significantly larger proportion of SPGs. Over time, however, Ukraine transitioned to greater reliance on modern SPGs, including Western-supplied systems like the Ukrainian Bohdana. This shift was accompanied by challenges, yet the adaptation was necessary to meet the tactical demands of a fast-moving, drone-surveilled battlefield.

Host Perun highlights an analytical advantage from this shift: it allows observers to compare the effectiveness and survivability of towed artillery against SPGs under varying conditions. He explains that while Ukraine's adoption of SPGs offers insights into modern mobility-focused tactics, Russia's increased reliance on older towed systems sheds light on survivability for more static, lower-cost setups. Perun notes the importance of understanding the nuanced operational implications of these contrasting dynamics.

Returning to the topic of artillery survivability, Lee explains the countermeasures both sides have implemented to address modern threats like looming unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and counter-battery fire. Ukrainian SPGs make use of "hot and cold" positions for protection: artillery teams set up firing positions and nearby bunkers, enabling them to alternate between firing and hiding. However, Lee also notes the diminishing effectiveness of the shoot-and-scoot strategy due to the continuous overhead presence of Russian intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) drones and Lancet loitering munitions.

Putiata emphasizes the nuances of countering UAS threats, which require a multi-layered approach. This includes artillery and electronic warfare (EW) systems, with additional tools like unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) and systems equipped with artificial intelligence to track and neutralize drones in real time. These systems collectively form a critical first line of battle against increasingly advanced and persistent UAS.

The discussion delves into ammunition availability, a critical determinant of operational success in modern combat. Lee asserts that munitions stockpiles and accessibility play a pivotal role, deciding whether an artillery unit can sustain offensive or defensive operations. He cites historical lessons from NATO operations and current difficulties faced by both Russia and Ukraine in sourcing adequate and effective ammunition.

The choice of munitions type is another significant consideration. High-explosive (HE) unitary rounds have specific uses but can lack efficacy in certain scenarios, such as area denial or when facing armored threats. In contrast, cluster munitions like Dual-Purpose Improved Conventional Munitions (DPICM) offer wide-area coverage and are notably effective against exposed infantry and soft vehicles but less so against hardened targets like tanks or well-fortified positions. For example, as Putiata points out, a Russian 2S19 SPG survived a DPICM round that failed to inflict critical damage, emphasizing the need for tactical flexibility and mixed munitions.

Perun ties these discussions back to wider lessons for global militaries, highlighting how attrition and logistics are as crucial as technical advancements in modern warzones. He points out that even highly advanced systems, like the heavily armored German PzH 2000, require comprehensive sustainment plans to remain effective in the field. Without the ability to repair or replace crucial components, even the most advanced artillery systems risk obsolescence.

Concluding the discussion, Perun describes the overarching challenges facing Ukraine and Russia on a battlefield dominated by drones, ISR capabilities, and extensive artillery activity. He underscores that while recent technological advancements have reshaped warfare, they have largely favored defensive postures. Restoring offensive maneuverability on such a battlefield while balancing it against the realities of attritional warfare remains one of the central questions of this ongoing conflict.

Moving into the future, Perun emphasizes that understanding these operational challenges will be key for any military force planning to navigate conflicts resembling the one in Ukraine. He frames the evolving dynamics of logistics, survivability, electronic warfare, and munitions as salient lessons, not just for Ukraine but for militaries worldwide.

What was said, and when

The points this article makes, who said each one, and the moment in the recording where it was said. Every time below opens the recording at that moment.

• Military analyst Perun states that the battlefield in Ukraine during 2026 has markedly shifted from the dynamics observed in 2022 and 2023. 04:25.
• The pace of territorial changes in Ukraine's battlefield is slower than in 2022 and 2023, with advances by either side limited in depth and strategic significance. 04:01.
• Rather than rapid gains, the conflict has devolved into a more drawn-out and attritional struggle. 04:25.
• The Ukrainian front line is more porous than traditional front lines, allowing for infiltration by Russian forces while remaining resilient. 04:40.
• Ukrainian positions increasingly resemble a loosely spread network of small, concealed groups rather than densely packed trenches. Rob Lee, 06:41.
• Rob Lee emphasizes that Ukrainian soldiers are often directed to avoid engaging Russian forces unless there is a clear necessity. 06:41.
• Tight-knit infantry teams of two to four personnel are stationed in concealed positions like tree lines, forests, or basements. Rob Lee, 08:03.
• Dmytro Putiata asserts that Ukraine lacks the manpower to maintain larger formations in fortified positions due to mobilization challenges and attritional losses. 10:12.
• Perun refutes comparisons to World War I trench warfare by stating that the low density of frontline troops in Ukraine renders such analogies misleading. 05:48.
• Mine deployment has adapted, moving away from the large minefields of earlier war phases to more targeted applications. 12:17.
• Remote mining with drones has become more targeted and refined, focusing on tactical choke points instead of expansive minefields. 13:02.
• Putiata recounts instances of mines placed near observation posts, complemented by drone and artillery support, to hinder Russian advances. 13:21.
• Perun highlights the shift from static warfare towards an approach relying heavily on adaptability and technology. 1:07:39.
• Russia has focused on developing its capabilities to disrupt Ukraine’s reliance on satellite-based systems. 30:00.
• Russia’s Razvet network for battlefield communications is now operational for certain applications, though limited. 30:00.
• Ukraine has targeted infrastructure supporting Russia's Razvet network to delay its progress. 30:32.
• The introduction of synchronized drone swarms and multi-drone operations by Ukrainian forces to hit multiple targets simultaneously. 25:56.
• Rob Lee asserts that drones, while transformative in warfare, cannot operate as a standalone force. 41:51.
• Rob Lee asserts that artillery remains a cornerstone of modern warfare and serves as an essential complement to drone operations. 41:51.
• The combination of drones and artillery forms the backbone of Ukraine's current battlefield strategy. 43:51.
• Lee recalls a combat experience in 2024 where Ukrainian forces initially suffered heavy losses due to a lack of artillery support and enemy drone surveillance. 38:21.
• The psychological and physical impact of advanced artillery munitions like DPICM on enemy forces. 1:05:06.
• Putiata emphasizes that some traditional systems like artillery remain operationally indispensable despite UAS advancements. 40:02.
• The trade-offs between modern self-propelled guns (SPGs) and older artillery systems like the M777 howitzer. 1:00:45.
• Lee recounts an anecdote involving logistical delays for Krab transmission systems, illustrating vulnerabilities of SPGs. 1:00:07.
• Perun emphasizes the importance of understanding operational implications of artillery survivability dynamics. 1:01:25.
• Both sides employ multi-layered approaches to counter UAS threats, including EW systems and real-time counter-drone systems. 45:00.
• Lee asserts that munitions stockpiles and accessibility decisively influence operational outcomes in modern combat zones. 1:03:40.