Russian President Vladimir Putin has implemented a substantial blockade of freight cars spanning nearly 20 miles in order to prevent potential Ukrainian counterattacks in the future.
Described as a "Tsar Train," this formidable barrier has been referred to as "exceptionally resistant to damage, displacement, or destruction" as Russia persists in its conflict in Ukraine.
Russian Forces Erect 19-Mile Rail Barrier
Ukrainian intelligence reports reveal that Russian forces have constructed a colossal 19-mile-long train barrier consisting of over 2,100 freight railcars, potentially serving as a defensive line against future Ukrainian attacks. The barrier, strategically positioned between Olenivka and Volnovakha in Ukraine's occupied Donetsk Oblast region, raises concerns about the effectiveness of this engineering structure.
Analysts from the Institute for the Study of War have been monitoring the construction of this extensive railcar barrier, initiated approximately nine months ago in July 2023. While the precise effectiveness of the barrier remains uncertain, the intention appears clear-to impede the advancement of the Ukrainian Defense Forces.
Ukraine's Digital Minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, released an ambitious plan to manufacture a large number of long-range drones by 2024. These drones are said to have the capability of conducting deep strikes into Russia. Several Ukrainian companies have started producing drones with the ability to reach major cities in Russia.
The drone industry has seen a remarkable expansion, thanks to the creation of long-range kamikaze drones that can travel distances of 300, 500, 700, and 1,000 kilometers.
Fedorov emphasized the rapid expansion of the drone sector, with Ukraine training 20,000 drone operators through a program offering military training grants in private schools since the beginning of 2023. The recent surge in Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian oil facilities indicates the sector's progress. The Digital Minister highlighted the government's efforts to deregulate the drone market swiftly, with increased funding through initiatives like BRAVE1, as per The Sun.
Ukraine's Private Sector Leads in Drone Production
Unlike Russia, Ukraine's drone production industry is primarily driven by private companies. Out of the ten companies that manufacture long-range drones, only one is state-owned. Fedorov conveyed the government's dedication to promoting innovation in private military start-ups and providing financial support to the drone industry.
The Ukrainian government allocated $2.5 million (£2 million) in grants to military tech start-ups through the BRAVE1 initiative last year, with plans to increase funding tenfold in 2024. Fedorov expressed determination to secure additional financing to enhance Ukraine's capabilities further.
The ongoing technological advancements in the conflict are brought about by changes in both defensive and offensive strategies. Since Russia strengthens its defenses with strong rail barriers, Ukraine is placing a priority on drone technology, seeking to close the gap in strike capabilities and match Moscow's long-range drone production.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced an ambitious goal for Ukraine to manufacture one million First Person View (FPV) drones by 2024, highlighting the significance of technology in the ongoing conflict, according to The Standard.
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