By Kris Osborn, President, Center for Military Modernization
(Washington D.C.) The arrival of Bradley Fighting Vehicles in Ukraine is multi-faceted as it clearly could help Ukrainians implement impactful applications of Combined Arms Maneuver in response to mechanized Russian formations.
Yet, the arrival is likely challenged, given the simple fact that Ukrainian forces may not be getting enough of them.
Bradley Fighting Vehicle
Considering this dual scenario, there are both advantages and limitations presented by the arriving Bradleys. Clearly, an ability to forward carry infantry under armor in support of Ukrainian counterattacks introduces a previously unprecedented ability to support advancing forces. Bradley-enabled Ukrainian forces repelling or advancing against a Russian armored invasion would operate with an ability to dismount infantry or rapidly deliver a squad of fighters directly into high-intensity combat.
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There are several lesser-recognized tactical advantages introduced by the arrival of Bradleys in the realm of sensing and anti-tank weaponry. The Bradley’s main Mk 44 gun brings firepower against Russian troops and vehicles, yet its thermal sensors may offer an even larger advantage.
It may not be clear which variant of the Bradleys the Ukrainians are getting, however, if export variants have some application similar to the U.S. Bradley’s Commander’s Independent Thermal Viewer, then Ukrainians will likely have a significant targeting and sensing advantage.