This compilation of footage shows the Ukrainian Army’s 10th Mountain Assault Brigade fighting Russian forces at close range. Viewer discretion is advised.

The footage begins with an element of the 10th exiting an APC. Note how while most of the squad takes cover, two hard-chargers run for the Russian trench and immediately get stuck in. They disrupt their enemy’s expectations and sense of timing in what we refer to as the OODA Loop today, but goes all the way back to Miyamoto Musashi, and in all likelihood, even before. In other words, few things are as timeless and universal as grabbing the initiative. While it takes no small amount of courage to do any of the clearing actions shown here, particularly in the age of drone bombs, these two stand out for establishing a foothold.

The two of them work the trench together as the rest of the squad gets it together. Although the footage is sped-up, they’re handling business by themselves for an awfully long time, especially considering the APC and its machine gun departs. The footage that follows is a mix of GoPro and drone footage, showing 10th Mountain soldiers fighting and clearing trenches with rifles and grenades. They are just yards, and in some cases feet, from Russian soldiers. At the end of the video, we see a large party of POWs being taken away.

About the Author

Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

Need a tried-and-tested fixed blade that's trusted by police, military and protective service users all over the world? Cole recommends Ironside Edge Works for your tactical or EDC blade needs.