abc.net.au/news/russia-ukraine-land-mine-minefield-clearance-military-strategy/102725634One of crucial themes of the war in Ukraine has been the adaptation battle between the Ukrainians and Russians. Both sides have learned and adapted their tactics, technology and military organisations in order to improve their battlefield performance.
Landmines have been a feature of many military conflicts, including at El Alamein, in Egypt, during WWII. Landmines and unexploded ordnance can be found all over Ukraine, using information from the Landmine Cluster Munition Monitor and HALO Trust.The operations to penetrate the Russian defences in southern Ukraine have been subject to much scrutiny. Observations such as the lack of Ukrainian air power, poor training or insufficient Western equipment have been offered. These have played a role. But there is a more fundamental reason why operations are proceeding slowly.
Residents walk by a sign that reads "Mines", warning of the potential presence of danger with every step.This represents an intellectual failure by western nations. We have not anticipated the application of this new meshed sensor-fires complex to modern ground operations over the past couple of decades. There were months where we observed Russian defences being constructed.