Ukrainian forces curb Russian advancement through swift adoption of Western artillery
In the 47th Independent Mechanised Brigade video, we can observe an initial offensive against Russians in the tree line with DPICM (Dual Purpose Improved Conventional Munition) cluster ammunition. It was followed by an operation involving an M2A2 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV), working with a drone to proceed with the attack, and concluding with FPV drones. This reveals a high level of Ukrainian preparedness and coordination, consequently escalating the lethality of the attack.
Deadly synchronisation crucial to success
Ukrainian forces executed a strategy centred around the cooperation of multiple systems. While this approach has been familiar and practised in NATO for decades, we see its implementation here on a smaller scale. The footage displays seamless collaboration between drone pilots locating targets and transferring the information to the artillerymen and the crew of the IFV. The M2A2 Bradley, in turn, releases fire precisely where the drone operators signalled. This immediate relay of information, enabling the crew to assess the effectiveness of their strike in real time, adds to its efficiency.
The Russians were met with an M863A1 or M864 projectile laden with dozens of tiny bomblets, each weighing approximately 300g. These bomblets comprise a blend of fragmented versions with a deadly range spanning several metres and shaped changes capable of penetrating the top armour of armoured vehicles or tanks. The bomblets have simple fuses designed to explode upon touching the ground. However, in earlier models of these projectiles, a considerable percentage (up to 15%) might not detonate in muddy terrains.
The M2A2 Bradley subsequently relied on its automatic M242 Bushmaster 25mm gun, loaded with M792 HEI-T ammunition, thus encouraging a fragmenting-incendiary with a tracer. This is a primary tool for resisting infantry wherein a projectile weighing roughly 181g carries about 27g of a potent explosive, RDX, and incendiary material encapsulated by a steel shell. Its operation is akin to a small grenade with a fatality range of several metres.
Adding to this is that the M242 Bushmaster cannon can release such projectiles at an astounding rate of up to 200 rounds per minute, creating a substantial impact within roughly 2 kilometres. Survival against such an attack directed by a drone is a significant challenge.
Ultimately, FPV drones equipped with grenades or anti-infantry bomblets sourced from disassembling cluster shells joined the assault. Thus, a cost-effective precision weapon priced under 1,000 pounds was employed, proving effective even in combat against individual soldiers. However, these are somewhat susceptible to electronic warfare systems, and though the Ukrainians can overcome commercial countermeasure devices from China, they face more difficulties with military systems.
