Losses in the Russian army are increasing: March was a "black month" for Russian artillery

The losses of the Russian armed forces are increasing sharply. According to military analyst Alexander Kovalenko, as of March 29, 2024, the Russian army had lost 1,543 artillery pieces. This is the largest loss recorded in the last three years. "There are still two days left in the month, but an absolute record has already been set," Kovalenko wrote.

At the same time, Russia's losses in motor vehicles are also approaching a record. While 3,472 vehicles were destroyed in February, by March 29 this figure had reached 3,297. Kovalenko noted that the losses in artillery and vehicles are interrelated, and are mainly explained by the requirements of the troops in the assault operations and the lack of specialized armored vehicles.

Old trucks at the front

According to Forbes, Russia is bringing 80-year-old trucks to the front. According to observer David Axe, the Russians began using GAZ-69 trucks, which were produced during World War II. The first model of this vehicle left the factory in 1952, and the latest modification was developed in 1972.

The use of such equipment is associated with the demechanization of the Russian army, that is, the lack of modern military equipment. During the war, Russia's losses in armored vehicles and heavy vehicles exceeded 20 thousand. For comparison, the entire British army has 18 thousand vehicles.

Demand for civilian vehicles is growing

Technical losses in the Russian army are leading to the use of civilian vehicles on the front lines. Analysts note that the Russians are now forced to use cars, minivans and even golf carts in addition to logistics for offensive operations. This makes them even more vulnerable to mines, artillery strikes and drone attacks.

According to analysts, 70% of Russia's total technical losses are due to unarmored trucks, cars and other civilian vehicles. This is increasing the demand for more inconvenient types of transport - even the possibility of using electric scooters, horses and donkeys is increasing.

Can Russia continue the offensive?

David Axe notes that despite demechanization, the Russian army still has the potential to continue offensive operations. Because the Russians still have more men and equipment than the Ukrainians. However, the loss of vehicles limits their strategic capabilities.

"Under certain conditions, demechanized Russian regiments can squeeze out Ukrainian brigades. However, such units will not be able to effectively exploit the gaps in the Ukrainian defense line," the analyst concludes.

Losses in Russian military equipment and the process of demechanization of the army can lead to a gradual escalation of the war and a limitation of the maneuverability of Russian troops. Follow “Zamin” news on “Telegram”