Ukrainians changed the way they build defensive fortifications: now in squares
The Russian offensive has stalled. This has given Ukrainians the opportunity to create a line of defense that makes infiltration tactics deadly. How will the Russians respond?
The front line is literally cut into pieces: black are finished or planned fortified sections, while grey (larger, located behind) will also be divided later. Source: clement_molin / X
OSINT researcher Clément Molin published an analysis of the situation on the front line on his X account. The researcher notes that recent Russian failures have allowed Ukraine to significantly complicate its fortification construction tactics. Every day gives Ukraine more time to prepare new positions that will eventually slow down subsequent Russian offensives.
Molin emphasizes that the quality of fortifications has significantly improved. He publishes a map and explains the essence of the changes:
«The main defensive lines (yellow) are designed to protect the Ukrainian rear. Between these main lines, numerous smaller lines of trenches and rows of barbed wire can be found. This strategy fragments the front line: we now have many squares and rectangles between the main and secondary lines».
As the author explains, on this map, yellow indicates main defensive lines, light yellow — secondary ones, white — barbed wire (much is still under construction), and light blue — defensive lines under construction. Source: clement_molin / X
According to Molin, if the Russians manage to enter one of these squares, they will find no Ukrainian fighters there — only mines. Ukrainians will be positioned around, attacking Russian breakthrough groups with drones and artillery, without risking a retaliatory strike, because each of these zones, such a square, is effectively a closed trap.
The new tactic, as the researcher notes, is a result of analyzing enemy behavior. Ukraine understood that Russia spares no manpower to advance between major cities, across fields, before starting infiltration into the cities themselves. To counter this, new defensive lines extend through rural areas, in front of major cities and towns. The emphasis is on ensuring that the new defense line is continuous.
Based on the analysis of satellite images, Molin notes the high pace of Ukrainian construction. He points out that six months ago there were no new fortifications in Donbas.
Current map with all trenches marked in yellow and rivers in blue. Source: clement_molin / X
As the researcher claims, the situation is becoming similar in many areas. However, there are still weak spots, for example, the southern approaches to Zaporizhzhia (but rivers act as natural barriers there), and all areas where Russia could maneuver are now being closed off.
If the situation remains as it is now, or if Ukraine manages to push the Russians further back, in two months the fortifications could look like this or even more extensive. Then every offensive will cost Moscow more and more.
At the same time, the researcher believes that the front line is now almost impossible to break through; the only strategy is to infiltrate in small groups.
«A strategic breakthrough or collapse of the front now seems less and less likely», Molin concludes.
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