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Maj Kevin "Mac" McLaughlin
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So, this demonstrates I know so very little about tanks and tank warfare. That said, it has become apparent the Russians have way too many challenges to overcome. Had we ever taken them on in Europe during the Cold War (let's say nukes did not exist), I would imagine that even with their masses, they would have suffered huge losses against NATO forces. The things I'm noting about them based on the reports include:

Moral - Do they even have any, or is this whole effort all about following orders under the threat of serious punishments should they challenge any aspect about this war? Meanwhile Ukrainians are fighting for their lives and their country. Complete contrast, definitely favoring Ukraine.

Doctrine - Even according to the article you posted, it seems like the Russians have not changed much in their approach to warfare. From the formations of their tanks to the failure to ensure solid C2 with Infantry and Artillery (Air? Navy? Spec Ops? Who else are they not coordinating with?), they simply appear to be place a bunch of forces in mass into a location to win by attrition. Not smart. Meanwhile the Ukrainians have to plan for effects-based targeting, biggest bang for the buck, and conserve what little they have. The Russians may have an advantage in masses, but they are certainly wasting them.

Logistics - Early on in this war, it was evident they learned nothing about planning for logistical supply. It was almost funny to see them line up for miles along a road, run out of gas and ammunition, and essentially leave some of their equipment behind.

Comms - Noting all of the above, I would imagine this is a mess. I would bet you have leaders yelling back and forth with each other, demanding they are more important. I would love to see more on how they conduct C4 during this operation because I'm sure it would be shocking.

This is just to name a few. What also must be understood is that if there is any other country that knows Russian TTPs first-hand, Ukraine is probably the one that knows it intimately. But things like Land, Sea, Air, Cyber supremacy or even superiority, they don't really have it. The question is, will they continue to play the attrition game or step it up with tactical nukes. What worries me is when President Biden draws that line at the podium, almost prompting Putin to do it, just to say, "what are you going to do about it?" It's one thing to draw the line, I don't have faith in him backing it up, nor do many world leaders, including Putin, think he will. My hope, the Russians find a way to remove Putin and give up on this war.
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SGT Richard Bingham
SGT Richard Bingham
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SPC Scott S - Great book! Read it years ago.
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