This footage, provided by a Ukrainian drone team, shows a Russian squad ostensibly tasked with salvaging a disabled IFV. Unfortunately for them, the Ukrainians drop mortar and artillery fire on the spot. A possible casualty is shown, which requires viewer discretion.

I previously posited that this guy (link NSFW) had the worst luck in the Russian Army, and while I stand by it, this salvage team has earned a spot on the list. What appears to be one of the crew's burning bodies is visible at 0:29

Naturally, with the increase of drone activity in warfare, the chances of doing practically anything unnoticed or without presenting a risk go down. Even the movement of individual soldiers can be tracked, making something as big as an IFV a non-issue. Therefore it's pretty safe to assume the enemy will use a damaged vehicle as bait. This both makes recovery and salvage incredibly dangerous and goes a long way toward explaining why both sides scuttle their own vehicles so often, rather than try to recover them.

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.

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