Danger from above
Ukrainian video shows: Russians cover trenches
By Janis Peitsch
December 10, 2023, 5:20 p.m
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Drones play an important role in Ukraine. A video now shows how Russian foot soldiers in the Kherson region are preparing for the threat from the air.
Drones are a constant threat in the war in Ukraine. In addition to reconnaissance missions, the unmanned aerial vehicles can be used to drop small bombs or, equipped with a warhead, fly towards their target in kamikaze style. A Ukrainian video now shows how Russian troops try to protect their position with a roof structure against the danger from above.
The one a few days ago on Telegram published clip comes from the aerial reconnaissance unit of the 501st Marine Battalion, 36th Marine Brigade. You can see a Russian trench system that is apparently still being worked on. In the trenches there are beam frameworks at regular intervals, consisting of two high beams and one cross beam. Some areas are already roofed with different materials. Judging by the footage, the Russians also appear to be using solar panels.
When exactly and where the video was recorded is unclear. According to Western military bloggers, the 36th Marine Brigade is currently fighting not far from the Ukrainian city of Kherson on the left bank of the Dnipro River, where Kiev’s units hold several bridgeheads.
Samuel Bendett, who works for the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, assumes that the design does not offer effective protection against a direct drone hit. But the roof can hide “the movements of soldiers” and the transport of light equipment, he writes Drone expert on X.
Already in mid-November, US military analyst Rob Lee published photos on X showing anti-drone measures on the Russian and Ukrainian sides. You can see a Russian bunker in the Kherson region. The entrance to the shelter is with a diagonally mounted grille secured. Another shot of Ukrainian soldiers from the 24th Mechanized Brigade in a trench. Above that A net is stretched in the trench.
“We’re seeing a variety of different defensive measures against drones,” Bendett told the a few weeks ago US magazine “Forbes”. Vehicles are often equipped with mesh cages, armor plates or wooden trunks. But the infantry is also looking for protection options. “Both sides are trying to adapt as quickly as possible to the ever-growing drone threat,” Bendett said.