(Image representation) Stock image of legs of soldiers in camouflage. (Image via X)
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has seen no shortage of battlefield innovations, but recent developments in the Kursk region suggest a striking, albeit grim, return to historical tactics.
According to Yehor Nozdryakov, a commander in Ukraine’s Air Assault Battalion, Russian forces are employing “wave-style” assaults reminiscent of World War II-era strategies.
These tactics, characterized by mass deployments of infantry troops, underline Moscow’s determination to reclaim lost ground despite mounting casualties.
A Nod to History: The “Meat Assaults”
The strategy, referred to by Ukrainian forces as “meat assaults,” involves waves of 20-30 Russian soldiers advancing in close succession, using sheer numbers to overwhelm Ukrainian positions.
This approach forces Ukraine to expend critical artillery, drone resources, and manpower to fend off the relentless attacks.
Although such tactics bear an eerie resemblance to human-wave assaults seen in mid-20th-century conflicts, they come at a tremendous cost to Russian forces.
Reports from the battlefield indicate that these operations are resulting in devastating casualties for Moscow, with up to 70 Russian troops killed in a single wave.
Despite this, Russia’s military appears undeterred, intensifying efforts to push Ukrainian brigades out of the Kursk region by the end of January.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has seen no shortage of battlefield innovations, but recent developments in the Kursk region suggest a striking, albeit grim, return to historical tactics.
According to Yehor Nozdryakov, a commander in Ukraine’s Air Assault Battalion, Russian forces are employing “wave-style” assaults reminiscent of World War II-era strategies.
These tactics, characterized by mass deployments of infantry troops, underline Moscow’s determination to reclaim lost ground despite mounting casualties.
A Nod to History: The “Meat Assaults”
The strategy, referred to by Ukrainian forces as “meat assaults,” involves waves of 20-30 Russian soldiers advancing in close succession, using sheer numbers to overwhelm Ukrainian positions.
This approach forces Ukraine to expend critical artillery, drone resources, and manpower to fend off the relentless attacks.
Although such tactics bear an eerie resemblance to human-wave assaults seen in mid-20th-century conflicts, they come at a tremendous cost to Russian forces.
Reports from the battlefield indicate that these operations are resulting in devastating casualties for Moscow, with up to 70 Russian troops killed in a single wave.
Despite this, Russia’s military appears undeterred, intensifying efforts to push Ukrainian brigades out of the Kursk region by the end of January.
The Kursk Front: Strategic Importance
The Kursk region holds significant strategic value for both sides.
Situated along the northeastern border of Ukraine, it has become a focal point in the broader conflict as Russian forces seek to regain control of critical territories.
For Moscow, recapturing Kursk would signal a symbolic and tactical victory, demonstrating their resolve to reclaim areas lost in the earlier stages of the war.
For Ukraine, holding Kursk is equally critical.
The region serves as a defensive buffer, protecting key cities and infrastructure from Russian advances.
As a result, the area has become a grueling battleground where both sides are digging in for what appears to be a prolonged and bloody confrontation.
Russia-Ukraine War: Control of Terrain (left), Kursk Direction: Control of Terrain (right) – both as of January 13, 2025. (ISW)
Heavy Losses but Unyielding Determination
The human cost of these wave-style assaults has drawn widespread criticism.
Ukrainian reports suggest that Russian commanders view their troops as expendable, using them as cannon fodder in their relentless push to reclaim territory.
This approach reflects the Kremlin’s readiness to leverage its numerical superiority, even at the expense of significant losses.
While these tactics may achieve short-term gains, their sustainability is questionable.
“We rise to great heights by a winding staircase of small steps.”
Francis Bacon
The high casualty rates not only diminish troop morale but also place additional strain on Russia’s already taxed logistical and recruitment efforts.
However, by applying relentless pressure on Ukrainian defenses, Russia aims to exhaust Kyiv’s resources and force a strategic withdrawal.
Ukraine’s Response: Adaptation and Resilience
Faced with Russia’s brutal strategy, Ukraine has demonstrated remarkable adaptability and resilience.
Ukrainian forces are countering these assaults with a combination of artillery strikes, drone attacks, and precision targeting.
By focusing on disrupting supply lines and targeting command structures, Kyiv aims to weaken the effectiveness of Russian operations.
Ukraine’s reliance on advanced Western weaponry, including long-range artillery and drones, has proven instrumental in blunting Moscow’s offensive.
However, the sheer volume of Russian troops involved in these assaults presents a significant challenge, requiring sustained efforts to repel each wave.
Broader Implications for the Conflict
The return to wave-style tactics underscores the evolving nature of the conflict.
As the war grinds on, both sides are forced to adapt to changing conditions on the ground.
For Russia, these tactics highlight a willingness to endure high casualties in pursuit of territorial gains. For Ukraine, they serve as a stark reminder of the relentless pressure exerted by Moscow’s forces.
This development also raises broader questions about the trajectory of the conflict. As Russia intensifies its efforts in Kursk and beyond, the international community must grapple with the human cost of these operations.
The use of such brutal tactics not only prolongs the suffering of both combatants and civilians but also reinforces the urgent need for a negotiated resolution to the war.
Conclusion: A Battle with No End in Sight
The wave-style assaults in the Kursk region are a chilling reminder of the brutality of modern warfare and the human toll it exacts.
As Russia continues to push its forces to the limit, Ukraine’s defenders remain resolute, fighting to protect their homeland against overwhelming odds.
While the battlefield remains fluid, one thing is certain: the conflict in Kursk is far from over, and the stakes for both sides are higher than ever.
For now, the world watches as this grim chapter of the war unfolds, hoping for a resolution that spares further loss of life and suffering.
As someone who’s seen what happens when the truth is distorted, I know how unfair it feels when those who’ve sacrificed the most lose their voice. At SOFREP, our veteran journalists, who once fought for freedom, now fight to bring you unfiltered, real-world intel. But without your support, we risk losing this vital source of truth. By subscribing, you’re not just leveling the playing field—you’re standing with those who’ve already given so much, ensuring they continue to serve by delivering stories that matter. Every subscription means we can hire more veterans and keep their hard-earned knowledge in the fight. Don’t let their voices be silenced. Please consider subscribing now.
One team, one fight,
Brandon Webb former Navy SEAL, Bestselling Author and Editor-in-Chief
Barrett is the world leader in long-range, large-caliber, precision rifle design and manufacturing. Barrett products are used by civilians, sport shooters, law enforcement agencies, the United States military, and more than 75 State Department-approved countries around the world.
PO Box 1077 MURFREESBORO, Tennessee 37133 United States
Scrubba Wash Bag
Our ultra-portable washing machine makes your journey easier. This convenient, pocket-sized travel companion allows you to travel lighter while helping you save money, time and water.
Our roots in shooting sports started off back in 1996 with our founder and CEO, Josh Ungier. His love of airguns took hold of our company from day one and we became the first e-commerce retailer dedicated to airguns, optics, ammo, and accessories. Over the next 25 years, customers turned to us for our unmatched product selection, great advice, education, and continued support of the sport and airgun industry.
COMMENTS
There are
You must become a subscriber or login to view or post comments on this article.