Ukraine’s Armed Forces Commander Calls for Adaptation to Decreased Support and Technological Opportunities
Gen. Valery Zaluzhny emphasizes the need for Ukraine to adapt to the possibility of decreased military support from distracted partners and explore opportunities in technology.
Gen. Valery Zaluzhny, the commander-in-chief of Ukraine’s armed forces, has highlighted the challenges faced by his country in the fight against Russia. In an opinion article published by CNN, Zaluzhny acknowledges the reduction in military support from key allies due to their own political tensions. He also raises concerns about the dwindling stocks of missiles, air defense interceptors, and ammunition for artillery, as well as the potential distraction caused by conflicts in other regions. Despite these challenges, Zaluzhny believes that Ukraine must adapt to its circumstances and seize opportunities in technology.
Decreased Support and Unique Challenges
Ukraine is facing a unique situation in its fight against Russia, as it grapples with a reduction in military support from key Western partners. The intensity of hostilities in Ukraine has depleted the stocks of missiles, air defense interceptors, and ammunition for artillery in partner nations. Additionally, delays in Congress have stalled billions of dollars of aid for Ukraine, resulting in shortages and the inability to fire more than 2,000 artillery shells per day. In contrast, Russia has advantages in industrial capacity, materials, and manpower, allowing for efficient resupply in a protracted conflict.
Opportunities in Technology
Despite the challenges, Zaluzhny believes that Ukraine can find opportunities in technology. He emphasizes the need for Ukraine to master the use of unmanned vehicles and other technological means. Zaluzhny argues that this pursuit essentially requires a wholesale redesign of battlefield operations and the abandonment of outdated thinking. He urges the Ukrainian military to focus on creating a structure to supply cutting-edge equipment, develop a new approach to combat considering resource constraints, and achieve proficiency in new combat skills.
Emphasizing Unmanned Drones and Countermeasures
To counter Russian weapons and tactics, Zaluzhny highlights the importance of utilizing unmanned drones. These drones can provide crucial intelligence and surveillance capabilities against threats like tanks. Additionally, improving countermeasures can enhance Ukraine’s defensive capabilities. However, Zaluzhny emphasizes that unmanned drones and countermeasures are not the only solutions and that Ukraine must explore a range of options to withstand Russian aggression.
Creating a New State System of Technological Rearmament
Zaluzhny calls for Ukraine to create a completely new state system of technological rearmament. He believes that Ukraine already possesses the capabilities to eliminate the enemy and ensure the existence of statehood. The goal should be to maximize the accumulation of the latest combat capabilities and seize the moment to strengthen Ukraine’s military capabilities.
Conclusion:
Gen. Valery Zaluzhny’s article highlights the challenges faced by Ukraine’s armed forces in the fight against Russia. With decreased support from key allies and resource constraints, Ukraine must adapt to its circumstances. Zaluzhny emphasizes the importance of exploring opportunities in technology, particularly the use of unmanned drones and the development of countermeasures. He calls for a complete overhaul of battlefield operations and the creation of a new state system of technological rearmament. By seizing these opportunities and maximizing the accumulation of combat capabilities, Ukraine can enhance its defense against Russian aggression.