…By Henry George for TDPel Media.
According to British defence chiefs, Russia has achieved a “temporary advantage” in southern Ukraine after reinforcing its attack helicopter force in the region.
The UK’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) stated in its latest intelligence update that Russia deployed additional helicopters to Berdyansk Airport, situated roughly 100km behind the front line.
This move by Russia is seen as an attempt to counter the Ukrainian counter-offensive in the area.
Reinforcement of Russian Attack Helicopter Force:
The MoD’s intelligence update highlighted that satellite imagery revealed the presence of over 20 additional Russian helicopters at Berdyansk Airport.
This strategic redeployment has given Russia a temporary edge in southern Ukraine, especially in terms of employing attack helicopters with longer-range missiles for ground target engagements.
It signifies an ongoing contest between aviation measures and counter-measures in the region.
Russian Claims of Repelling Ukrainian Counterattacks:
The Russian military announced that it successfully repelled multiple Ukrainian army counterattacks at various frontline locations.
Ground troops, airstrikes, and artillery were employed by the Russian forces to fend off the Ukrainian forces in the Donetsk region.
The defence ministry in Moscow asserted that approximately 500 Ukrainian soldiers were killed, and five tanks were destroyed during the clashes.
Explosions Heard in Kyiv:
Coinciding with the arrival of African leaders on a peace mission in Kyiv, explosions were heard in the city.
Kyiv’s mayor, Vitali Klitschko, attributed the blasts to air defence systems intercepting and shooting down Russian missiles near the city.
Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries or damage to buildings.
Conclusion:
With Russia reinforcing its attack helicopter force in southern Ukraine, British defence chiefs suggest that Russia has gained a temporary advantage.
The deployment of additional helicopters at Berdyansk Airport provides Russia with increased capabilities in countering the Ukrainian counter-offensive.
These developments further escalate tensions in the region and highlight the ongoing conflict between Ukrainian and Russian forces.