Ukraine: an ugly truth
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visits Bucha in the aftermath of the Russian withdrawal. (Photo: Ukrainian MoD)
The way in which Russia has gone about invading Ukraine defies logic and leaves military analysts with more questions than answers.
In the last editor’s comment for Shephard's Air Warfare magazine, this writer looked at how Russia would likely approach invading Ukraine by focusing on dismantling C2 infrastructure and relying on land-based equipment to assert control, less so on air power. In reality though, much of what has happened since the invasion began beggars belief and confounds all manner of military analysts’ forecasting. Most depressing are the tragic scenes from Bucha, a town near Kyiv, which are currently being investigated by the International Criminal Court in order for evidence of war crimes to be gathered.
Some experts have not been so
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Denmark to bolster maritime defences as P-8A FMS deal approved by US]()
Denmark to bolster maritime defences as P-8A FMS deal approved by US
The NATO country continues to focus on building up its maritime surveillance and enforcement capabilities as part of a major investment in its Arctic defences.
-
![December Drone Digest: Germany, Australia and US champion indigenous UAV production]()
December Drone Digest: Germany, Australia and US champion indigenous UAV production
One of the key trends seen in December has been the rise in indigenous investment within the UAV market, particularly across certain countries, with Germany, Australia and the US focusing on their commitments to sovereign development.
-
![2025 air market review: European defence independence, next-gen tech and export concerns dominate]()
2025 air market review: European defence independence, next-gen tech and export concerns dominate
This year’s (geo)political turmoil has challenged many long-prevailing assumptions, leading to far-reaching consequences for air forces and their supplier bases in industry worldwide – with five key trends in review for 2025.
-
![Poland air report: Drones, transport aircraft and tankers dominate potential procurement plans]()
Poland air report: Drones, transport aircraft and tankers dominate potential procurement plans
With a rising defence budget and equipment list, Poland’s air market is set to grow as the country continues to modernise its transport and helicopter fleets while seeking out uncrewed aerial vehicles and loitering munitions.
