Specific features of building and conducting defense by Russian Federation units and subunits during the war in Ukrainian

Abstract

This article examines the transformation of the Russian Federation Armed Forces’ (RF AF) tactical approaches to organizing and conducting defensive operations in the context of the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war. Based on an analysis of Russia’s participation in armed conflicts from the late 20th to the early 21st century, the study identifies the evolution of organizational structures, changes in the arrangement of battle formations, and the employment of tactical-level units. Special attention is given to the shift from a brigade-centric to a mixed divisional-regimental structure, which has increased the firepower capabilities of defensive groupings. The study establishes the approximate composition of enemy defensive groupings, the peculiarities of preparing for defensive operations, operational structures, the system of fire engagement, engineer obstacles, and anti-tank defense. It also identifies the probable distribution of RF subunits across the elements of the battle formation and characterizes their actions in defensive combat. The findings may be applied to improve operational planning and enhance the training system for the command staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.