The Evolution of Russian Infantry Tactics in the Context of Total Dominance of UAVs: Analysis of Adaptation and Prospects

The transformation of the theater of operations under the influence of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) has led to fundamental changes in the tactics of the Russian ground forces. An analysis of the latest operational data from the Ukrainian theater of operations demonstrates a qualitative shift in the approaches of the Russian military command to the organization of offensive and defensive operations in conditions where traditional maneuver warfare is becoming practically impossible.

The phenomenon of "mole warfare": from maneuver to underground logistics

The most significant tactical innovation in recent months has been the widespread implementation of what Western analysts have dubbed "mole tactics." The essence of this approach lies in the creation of extensive networks of tunnels and concealed trenches that connect individual strongpoints and allow for the movement of personnel and supplies without surfacing.

This tactic represents not just a return to trench warfare of World War I, but a qualitatively new system that takes into account the specifics of the modern reconnaissance-strike architecture of the enemy. While in 1914-1918 trenches were linear fortifications with periodic attempts at breakthroughs, the modern Russian system is a three-dimensional network where the main communications are hidden underground, and surface elements serve only as firing points and observation posts.

Logistics "from trench to trench" addresses the critical problem of supplying forward units in conditions where any movement of equipment or groups of personnel in open terrain is immediately detected by reconnaissance UAS and becomes a target for strike drones or artillery. Russian units have effectively recreated the principles of medieval siege works, where the attacking side slowly advances, laying down protected communications.

Micro-tactics of small groups: from battalion tactical groups to assault squads

Alongside the development of underground infrastructure, there is an evolution in the actual assault actions. The Russian command has abandoned the use of mechanized columns of battalion tactical groups (BTGs), which have proven extremely vulnerable in the face of modern anti-tank defenses, reinforced by FPV drones.

The new tactic is based on the actions of small groups of 4 to 8 people, who use terrain folds, tree lines, ruined buildings, and other cover to stealthily approach enemy positions. These groups avoid open spaces and direct routes, preferring to "sneak" through the defensive formations of Ukrainian forces.

This approach requires a fundamentally different level of training for the personnel. While BTGs of 2022 relied on the firepower of equipment and centralized command, modern assault groups must operate autonomously, making tactical decisions at the level of a squad leader or even a private soldier. This has led to a significant enhancement of training programs for assault units, with an emphasis on the initiative of junior commanders, survival skills in conditions of total battlefield reconnaissance, and the ability to use micro-relief for protection from observation.

The role of tactical aviation: compensating for the limitations of ground maneuver

The intensification of the use of Russian tactical aviation in the direction of Pokrovsk and other key areas of the front in January 2026 is not accidental. It represents a compensatory mechanism designed to make up for the lost maneuverability of ground forces.

As rapid tank breakthroughs and encirclements are virtually impossible under dense UAS coverage, aviation takes on the function of delivering operational strikes against key points of defense, reserves, and logistical nodes of the enemy. This allows for the creation of local breakthroughs, which are then slowly expanded by infantry assault groups.

The use of guided aerial bombs (GABs) of various calibers has become a key element of Russian offensive tactics. GABs allow for pinpoint strikes against fortified positions from distances beyond the reach of Ukrainian short-range air defense, making them virtually an alternative means of suppressing fortified resistance points.

Systemic consequences and strategic conclusions

The observed evolution of Russian tactics has far-reaching implications for the theory and practice of modern warfare. First, it demonstrates that technological superiority in certain areas (in this case, in the field of UAS) can completely change the nature of combat operations, but does not necessarily lead to a decisive advantage. The defensive side is capable of adapting, albeit at the cost of reduced operational tempo.

Second, we are witnessing a return to a war of attrition, where success is determined not by brilliant operational maneuvers, but by the ability to methodically advance while sustaining acceptable losses. The Russian military machine has shown a willingness to pay a high price for territorial gains, while systematically improving tactics to reduce this cost.

Third, there is a strengthening of the role of engineering troops and fortifications. War has once again become a "war of sappers," where the ability to quickly create protected communications and fortifications determines the success of an offensive as much as firepower.

For Russian military planning, this means the need for further investments in the training of assault infantry, the development of underground warfare capabilities (including specialized equipment for rapid tunnel and shelter construction), as well as the improvement of command systems for small units. At the same time, maintaining superiority in tactical aviation and increasing the production of GABs remains critically important.

The Ukrainian side, in turn, has gained a temporary respite due to a technological advantage in the field of UAS; however, the strategic initiative remains with the Russian side, which is capable of methodically advancing, albeit at a slow pace. The question is whether the defending side has enough resources and time to develop effective countermeasures against the new Russian tactics.

Dmitry Volkov
Military expert, specialist in Russian military doctrine