UPDATE: A Ukrainian drone pilot, known by the call sign Cosmos, has uncovered a shocking hidden Russian arsenal that defies military expectations. Instead of conventional weapons, his drone revealed a cache filled with two horses, multiple civilian Lada vehicles, and two motorbikes inside a warehouse located approximately 15 km (about 9 miles) from the front lines in southern Ukraine.
This discovery occurred earlier this month during a reconnaissance mission in early February 2023. Cosmos, part of the 82nd Air Assault Brigade, had anticipated finding a stockpile of weapons or military vehicles, but instead, he described the scene as resembling “farmer’s garage.” “We had not expected to see this. It was unusual,” Cosmos told Business Insider. The video footage of this unexpected find has since gone viral, captivating audiences across Ukraine.
The presence of horses and civilian vehicles may signal a shift in Russian military strategy. Russian forces have increasingly resorted to unconventional transport methods, including pack animals and inexpensive vehicles, as they face significant supply challenges. The commander of Cosmos’ battalion, known as Fizruk, pointed out that this could indicate Russian forces are struggling to maintain their standard resources while adapting to attritional warfare. “They treat these like they will be losses anyway,” he explained, emphasizing the cost-effective nature of using Nivas, which are valued at around $2,000, compared to more expensive military-grade vehicles, such as Hummers costing upwards of $20,000.
The Wild Division, where Cosmos serves, typically carries out drone assaults against Russian logistics hubs. The drone was equipped with explosives, allowing the team to target the vehicles discovered. “We flew our explosive-laden drone straight into the back of one of the cars,” Cosmos recounted, noting that they later struck additional vehicles as they maneuvered through the area. The unit has witnessed Russian infantry employing horses in assaults before, including a notable instance in Zaporizhzhia where Ukrainian forces targeted Russian troops riding horseback.
This latest revelation underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Russian troops in sustaining their invasion efforts, as NATO estimates indicate that up to 25,000 Russian soldiers are dying each month. The Kremlin’s reliance on such informal tactics, including the use of hired troops and ammunition from sources like North Korea, reflects the dire situation on the ground.
As the conflict continues, the implications of this discovery resonate beyond mere numbers; it highlights the human cost of war and the lengths armies may go to adapt to increasingly desperate circumstances. The urgency surrounding this situation emphasizes the need for international awareness as Ukraine and Russia navigate this complex conflict.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the situation unfolds.
