Ukraine Combines Cluster Munitions With New Tactics

 

Ukrainian artillery – illustrative photo. Image credit: Armed Forces of Ukraine

Employing a combination of cluster munitions and innovative strategies, Ukrainian defenders have succeeded in advancing to strategic points near the primary defensive lines of the Russian Armed Forces in certain locations.

The introduction of cluster munitions supplied by the U.S. has breathed new life into the Ukrainian counteroffensive, breaking a period of stagnation lasting several weeks. Military personnel assert that these munitions are effectively utilized to target clusters of Russian infantry, vehicle groupings, and other objectives, thereby facilitating progress on the ground.

The Ukrainian forces’ counteroffensive has faced obstacles such as extensive minefields and Russian air superiority, impeding widespread attempts to breach Russian troop defense lines using Western-provided tanks and armored vehicles.

Dual Purpose Improved Conventional Munition rounds – American 155 mm cluster ammunition for artillery. Image credit: U.S. Army via Wikimedia

What roles can be fulfilled by cluster munitions on the battlefield?

It’s important to note that while cluster munitions alone may not be sufficient to tip the balance of power in Ukraine’s favor on the battlefield, combatants contend that they played a role in retaking Russian-held positions that were previously challenging to access.

These munitions were utilized in conjunction with strategic adjustments, enabling Ukrainian soldiers to make significant advancements near the primary defense lines of the Russian Armed Forces in specific areas.

Cluster munitions are often employed in conjunction with specific military tactics to maximize their effectiveness. Here are the objectives which the Ukrainian Army can now achieve:

• Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD): Cluster munitions can be used to target and neutralize enemy air defense systems, such as anti-aircraft missile launchers or radar installations. This creates a safer environment for friendly aircraft to operate in.

• Interdiction: this type of weapon can be used to disrupt enemy supply lines, transportation routes, and communication networks. By targeting clusters of vehicles and infrastructure, they hinder the movement and coordination of enemy forces.

• Preparation of the Battlefield: they can be used to soften enemy defenses before a ground assault. By saturating an area with munitions, they can destroy or neutralize fortifications, trenches, and other defensive structures.

• Artillery Suppression: Cluster munitions can target enemy artillery positions, destroying or neutralizing the threat of enemy artillery fire, which can be crucial in maintaining the safety of friendly forces.

• Area Denial: The Armed Forces can now deny the enemy access to specific areas, such as the ability to use certain roads or avenues of approach.

• Anti-Personnel and Anti-Material Effects: Depending on the type of submunitions contained within the cluster munitions, they can be effective against both personnel and vehicles. This versatility allows for a wide range of tactical applications.

• Disruption of Reinforcements: Cluster munitions can target concentrations of enemy troops or vehicles that are moving to reinforce a specific area. By disrupting these reinforcements, they can prevent the enemy from reinforcing their defenses or counterattacking.

• Urban Warfare: In urban environments, cluster munitions can be used to target enemy forces that are positioned within buildings or fortified positions. The widespread effect of the submunitions can clear out enemy-held structures.

The flight trajectory and functioning of 155mm DPICM cluster munitions. Image credit: U.S. Army

The effect in practice: Cluster munitions combined with new tactics

The recent clashes near Robotne in the Zaporizhia region showcased the efficacy of these munitions. Initially, Russian forces had pinned down a Ukrainian platoon, but the situation shifted when Ukrainian artillery employed cluster munitions, causing significant casualties among the enemy ranks and compelling them to withdraw.

Simultaneously, the opposing forces are swiftly adjusting to the deployment of cluster munitions, constructing deeper trenches and adopting more discreet positioning.

“Cluster bombs are good. They are effective. But the Russians are deeply entrenched, and they are learning quickly,” remarked Captain Anatoly Kharchenko, the leader of the reconnaissance company.

Experts cited in the report noted that, as of now, Ukrainian troops are not actively attempting to breach the primary defense lines of the Russian Armed Forces. According to these experts, to overcome such lines, the Defense Forces will likely require resources like Leopard 2 tanks and other Western armored vehicles.

To maneuver through minefields without incurring losses, Ukrainian fighters have revamped their tactics, with infantry now taking the lead in traversing minefields on foot, reinforced by reserves from other units. In conjunction with these strategic alterations, the military personnel are increasingly optimistic about the possibility of achieving a breakthrough.