In the first two years of Russia’s wider war on Ukraine, nearly 15,000 combat vehicles were lost, putting a strain on the Russian military’s resources. The production of new vehicles and the restoration of old ones couldn’t keep up with the monthly loss of more than 600 tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, and armored personnel carriers. As a result, Russian troops have resorted to using trucks, open-top golf carts, and motorcycles in battle.
The increasing number of unprotected or minimally protected vehicles on the Russian side of the front line doesn’t necessarily impact their ability to win battles against Ukrainian forces. However, it does highlight a significant challenge for the Kremlin in a prolonged conflict that was initially expected to end quickly. The limited ability to replace lost armored vehicles is a concern, according to analysis from Ukrainian group Frontelligence Insight.
While riding motorcycles on the battlefield is nothing new, the reliance on such vehicles has become more pronounced for Russian troops in 2024. With a shortage of purpose-built armored vehicles and larger civilian-style vehicles, Russian forces are using motorcycles as a means of transportation and engagement. This shift has not come without consequences, as several Russian units have suffered losses in battles with Ukrainian forces.
Despite the setbacks, some Russian units still see motorcycles as effective assault vehicles due to their speed and mobility advantages over heavier armored vehicles. The Zarya Battalion of the Russian army’s 123rd Motor Rifle Brigade has vouched for the use of motorcycles in combat, emphasizing their ability to evade detection and move quickly. Russian troops have also started implementing modifications to their motorcycles, such as adding metal mesh to protect against drones.
The Ukrainian 79th Air Assault Brigade has been successful in countering Russian motorcycle assaults, with notable victories in engagements where motorcycles were destroyed or abandoned by Russian forces. The brigade has utilized attack drones to target and defeat the Russian motorcycle troops, showcasing their effectiveness in combat. Despite efforts to improve their motorcycles for warfare, the Russians have faced challenges in dealing with Ukraine’s technological advancements on the battlefield.
In conclusion, the use of motorcycles as makeshift combat vehicles by Russian troops in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine has posed challenges and setbacks for the Russian military. While motorcycles offer advantages in terms of speed and maneuverability, they also come with vulnerabilities that Ukrainian forces have been able to exploit. As the conflict continues, it remains to be seen how both sides will adapt and respond to the evolving tactics and strategies employed on the battlefield.