The K2 Battalion of Ukraine’s 54th Mechanized Brigade hunts enemy troops, directing various fire support assets. Drones conducting aerial reconnaissance spot a Russian soldier and initially call in fire from an automatic grenade launcher, which fails to deter him from his course of action. Sharp shooters also take a crack at him without success. Finally a 155mm howitzer, probably an American produced M777 fires a few rounds towards the soldier, prompting him and his comrade to withdraw.

The scaled response is interesting, calling in an asset like an AGL before resorting to artillery, and it is also interesting that AGLs are being directed like a fire support asset. Rather than firing as batteries or sections, the Ukrainian gunners are employing single guns with a few rounds at a time, likely a measure to conserve ammunition and to present a smaller footprint to drones or counter battery radar.

About the Author

Cam

Cam served as an infantry officer in the Marine Corps, deploying to the Horn of Africa and participating in combat operations in Iraq. He currently works in the maritime industry and in the defense sector as an instructor of combined arms planning and operations. An avid sailor, Cam founded and directs Triumph Sailing, a nonprofit that supports veterans and first responders through adventure and fellowship on the water. Triumph Sailing is preparing for the 2024 season of sailing on Galveston Bay and in the Gulf of Mexico. You can support the mission and next year's sailing season at Tri-Sail.Org.