Russian military faces equipment shortages with unusual tactics
The war in Ukraine is rife with unusual events that would have been considered science fiction just a few years ago. One such incident involves a Russian cyclist leading the way for a BMP-1/2 infantry fighting vehicle.
Below, you can see footage of stunned Russians at the command post, observing one of the attacks via drone. They are astounded that a cyclist is at the frontline, followed by the BMP-1/2 infantry fighting vehicle.
It's hard to determine how this situation arose, but considering the current discipline enforced within the Russian military—such as starving rebellious soldiers in pits for a few days or even resorting to execution for disobedience—this scenario could be plausible. For example, there might have been no space left in the BMP-1/2 for all the soldiers in the assault group, forcing one soldier to ride a bicycle.
The Russian Army after nearly three years of war — "human wave attacks," civilian vehicles, and significant shortages
After nearly three years, the Russian army has almost deteriorated to the level of warlords in developing countries. Currently, the Russians’ main tactic involves sending masses of infantry to enemy positions (commonly referred to as "human wave attacks") and bombarding Ukrainian defensive positions with artillery or guided FAB bombs with UMPK modules dropped by aircraft.
Only after this preparatory phase are mechanised and armoured units deployed. This tactic has proven somewhat effective, primarily due to insufficient assistance from the West and manpower shortages on the Ukrainian side. Except for some units, they struggle to replenish their losses with new soldiers.
The Russians lack armoured equipment because deep storage warehouses, or rather strategic junkyards of Soviet-era equipment have already been practically depleted, and by 2025, the Russian industry will not have enough resources for refurbishment. It's already apparent that in terms of artillery Russia is resorting to equipment from North Korea, as local reserves are simply lacking.
Meanwhile, the Russians are remediing shortages in armoured personnel carriers and infantry fighting vehicles by using old tanks reinforced with scrap metal, with space for troops just behind the turret. Another option is using buggies or motorcycles from the Chinese market.
Moreover, the entire logistics behind the front lines, after significant truck losses, is being managed much like the Ukrainians, using civilian vehicles often funded through donations. The UAZ-452 Buchanka minibuses are especially valued for their decent off-road capabilities and good load capacity.
