Three years of bloodshed forcing Russia to put mass ahead of quality, MOD reports
After three years of war, Russia’s Special Military Operation in Ukraine has resulted in hundreds of thousands of casualties and left the country relying on mass to win, according to UK intelligence.
Russia's armed forces are believed to have suffered more than 860,000 casualties and have lost over 12,000 tanks and vehicles.
"After three years of the conflict, Russia's land forces have been radically altered by the pressures of carrying out operations in Ukraine," the Ministry of Defence said in its latest intelligence update.
"Pre-invasion attempts to build a modern, professional force capable of carrying out complex operations have been reversed by substantial losses.
"Russia is now reliant on mass over-quality to prosecute operations against Ukraine.
"Russia's personnel casualties of over 860,000 killed and wounded have undermined Russia's force quality.
"Most personnel currently serving in the Russian military have received minimal training, and Russian commanders use basic tactics to make advances, despite the associated high casualty rates.
"Russia has lost at least 3,750 main battle tanks and 8,400 armoured vehicles.
"Large stockpiles of tanks and armoured vehicles, a legacy of the Soviet Union, have been the only means for Russia to be able to replenish these major losses."
But while Russia has lost a significant number of troops, its armed forces are continuing to put Ukrainian soldiers under constant pressure.
Moscow was able to advance through Ukrainian territory throughout 2024, but so far this year the drive has slowed.
Continued attacks have been underpinned by the Russian leadership's tolerance for casualties, and President Putin is hoping to overwhelm Ukraine by using superior numbers, the MOD concluded.
Join Our Newsletter
