I can’t help but feel a mix of shock and awe at the news that Russia has lost two of its prized A-50 planes and Ukraine retaliated by striking the factory that was replacing them. The idea that hitting a target once makes it tactically sensible to hit it again certainly makes sense in the context of warfare. The UK Ministry of Defence intelligence update indicating that Russia had likely grounded its A-50 fleet due to unsustainable losses is a significant blow to the Russian military.
The fact that Ukraine was able to strike the factory replacing the A-50 planes, despite the superior Russian air defense, is a testament to their strategic capabilities.… Continue reading
Ukraine says corrupt officials stole $40 million meant to buy arms for the war with Russia. The news comes as a shocking revelation, but sadly, not a surprising one. Corruption has long plagued Ukraine, and it seems that even in the midst of a grueling war, some officials cannot resist the allure of lining their own pockets.
The fact that the funds have been tracked down and seized is a small victory. At least the money will be returned to the country’s defense budget, where it is sorely needed. However, $40 million is no small amount, and its loss will undoubtedly have implications for Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against Russian aggression.… Continue reading
British public will be called up to fight if UK goes to war because ‘military is too small’, Army chief warns
As I sit here and read the headline, I can’t help but feel a mix of concern, frustration, and disappointment. It is concerning to hear that the British public may be called up to fight if the UK goes to war because the military is too small. It indicates that the possibility of a conflict is not only likely but imminent. On top of that, the fact that the Army chief himself is issuing this warning suggests that the situation is even more serious than we may realize.… Continue reading
Media: After Ukrainian drone attack on Novatek, Moscow shifts air defenses from frontline to rear areas
As tensions continue to escalate between Ukraine and Russia, a recent drone attack on the Novatek oil field has prompted Moscow to shift its air defenses from the frontline to rear areas. This strategic move by Russia indicates a vulnerability in their defenses and leaves their troops and supply lines more exposed. It reminds me of the tactics used by the United States in defeating ISIS back in 2015.
The US shifted its focus from direct military engagement to targeting ISIS leadership and oil infrastructure.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker