The Evolving Battlefield in Ukraine: A Comprehensive Overview

Guest Essay by Brigadier General (retired) Mark C. Arnold

Mark Arnold has visited Ukraine four times since February 2022. This article provides his excellent technical analysis of the state of the Russia-Ukraine war. The article has been carefully edited to exclude information that can be of meaningful use to the Russian Federation.

The conflict in Ukraine is a dynamic theater of war that has seen an evolution in military tactics and technology. Both Ukrainian and Russian forces have been adapting to these changes, creating a complex and increasingly lethal battlefield.

One of the most significant developments has been the increased utilization of drones. Initially, Ukrainian forces were able to leverage their superior drone capabilities for better battlefield awareness and targeting. However, recent advancements have seen a shift, with Russian drones now dominating the airspace. These drones have become crucial in carrying out Russian deep-strike missions and disrupting Ukrainian military movements, effectively changing the dynamics of ground…