Ukraine's Kursk push faces ambush setbacks, vehicle losses
Since early August 2024, Ukrainian armed forces have been storming the Russian Kursk region. Despite numerous successes by the defending army, there have unfortunately been setbacks, such as losing valuable equipment in an ambush set by Russian forces.
David Axe, an analyst with Forbes, notes that Ukrainian forces fell into a "cruel ambush" south of Veseloe (in Russia, a few kilometres from the Ukrainian border). In this encounter, the army lost significant valuable equipment used in military operations in the Kursk region.
They lost dozens of valuable vehicles
Russian soldiers repelled the Ukrainian attack, destroying about 16 armoured vehicles. Among these were some of the most esteemed in the local arsenal, including Swedish CV90s, German Marders, and American Strykers.
Ukraine is deploying its most valuable equipment in the Kursk operation. However, according to the Forbes analyst, even these elite formations struggle to break through towns just over the border from Russia into Ukraine. The Russians also face difficulties, as David Axe reported. The Russian army is losing equipment rapidly, though Putin's forces possess larger reserves to offset these losses.
What have the Ukrainians lost?
The CV90, the Combat Vehicle 90, is a Swedish infantry fighting vehicle that has been repeatedly modernised and adapted to various combat conditions. Renowned for its versatility, it performs various missions, from surveillance to intense battles.
A key feature of the CV90 is its armour, which provides substantial protection for the crew and the infantry. The vehicle is fitted with armour modules that are adjustable for specific missions. Its steel hull, supplemented by ceramic and composite elements, guards against various weaponry. Thanks to this advanced protection system, the CV90 can withstand attacks from small arms and light artillery.
Another significant feature is its mobility. The vehicle is powered by a diesel engine, delivering high power and torque, allowing efficient manoeuvrability in tough terrain. It can reach up to 70 km/h and has an operational range of approximately 500 kilometres, enabling swift responses to shifting combat situations.
They lost German Marders and American Strykers
The Marder, meanwhile, is a German infantry fighting vehicle that has served a critical role in the German army for decades. It is valued for its reliability, versatility, and the advanced technologies used in its construction.
One of the Marder's main advantages is its armour. Equipped with steel armour, it offers protection against machine gun fire and light artillery. Additionally, composite modules can be added depending on mission needs. Its armour has been thoroughly tested and proven effective in various combat scenarios.
The Marder is also equipped with potent weapons, such as a 20 mm cannon and MILAN anti-tank guided missiles. These allow it to effectively support infantry and engage enemy armoured vehicles. Thanks to its advanced fire control system, the Marder's crew can accurately hit targets from a distance, significantly enhancing its combat capabilities.
Primarily notable for its mobility, the Stryker features all-wheel drive, allowing speeds of up to 95 km/h, making it highly effective in dynamic combat operations. Its operational range is approximately 500 kilometres, permitting extended patrols and rapid responses to threats.
