Increased Use of Russian Motorcycles in Frontline Attacks

Reports indicate that Russian forces have increasingly adopted the use of motorcycles as a tactic in their military operations in Ukraine. A soldier from a Ukrainian brigade has informed analysts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) that these motorcycle assaults have become a more widespread method of engagement.

Initially, motorcycles were primarily utilized for attacks along roadways. However, their role has expanded to include operations on open battlefields and facilitating movement through Ukrainian defenses at the front lines. This marks a strategic shift within Russian military tactics, where motorcycles are employed for various purposes, including direct assaults, encirclement of infantry, feigned maneuvers, infiltration, and reconnaissance missions.

According to Frontelligence Insight, a Ukrainian analytical firm, the use of motorcycles is now increasingly independent of armored vehicles, with reports indicating a rise in operations consisting solely of motorcycle units in recent weeks.

Typically, these motorcycle groups consist of six to eight bikes, each carrying one or two soldiers. They are equipped with portable electronic warfare systems designed to disrupt Ukrainian communication systems, drones, and precision-guided munitions. Additionally, these units include devices that can detect Ukrainian drones.

Beyond combat, motorcycles are also being utilized for logistical support and the evacuation of injured personnel. To adapt to this evolving strategy, Russian soldiers are reportedly undergoing advanced training programs, which can last from 16 hours to over a month, focusing on evading drone detection.

Internal documents from the Kremlin suggest plans to equip approximately half of the ground forces with lighter vehicles, including motorcycles. This transition appears to be a response to the diminishing effectiveness of Soviet-era tanks, likely due to the growing use of motorcycles and other agile vehicles. Satellite imagery estimates indicate that Russia retains slightly less than half of its original stock of tanks and armored vehicles, a level consistent with data from December of the previous year.

Notably, the majority of motorcycles being deployed in these offensive operations are foreign-made, predominantly sourced from China. The Russian military's strategy indicates a future reliance on these lighter vehicles to enhance mobility and reduce exposure to drone surveillance and fire.

However, this shift in tactics has not come without significant casualties. Reports indicate that many motorcycle operators have been killed before reaching their objectives. For instance, during an attack on Pokrovsk on April 17, over 100 motorcycles and approximately 20 armored vehicles were destroyed, with around 240 Russian soldiers reportedly injured.

This evolving tactic, implemented over a year ago in the ongoing conflict, highlights the shifting nature of warfare in the region, raising concerns about its potential application in future operations beyond Ukraine, including possible attacks on NATO countries.