The ongoing war in Ukraine has taken unexpected turns, revealing tactics that seem more fitting for an action movie than real life.
One such surprising development is the use of electric scooters by Russian soldiers in the frontline regions.
Struggles to Provide for Troops
This unconventional choice for transportation reflects the current struggles faced by the Russian military and raises questions about the adaptability of both sides in this conflict.
Three years ago, Russia was perceived by many as the second most powerful army in the world. Today, it appears that the country struggles to provide adequate transport for its troops, according to WP.
As a result, soldiers are resorting to whatever means they can find to move around, including electric scooters, motorcycles, and bicycles. Interestingly, while Ukrainian forces also utilize creative solutions, they were not regarded as a regional power on the international stage.
Reports have surfaced showing Russian troops retreating from defensive positions on electric scooters they acquired independently. These scooters can reportedly travel up to 21.7 miles (35 kilometers) on paved roads, offering a practical option in the absence of reliable military logistics.
Advantage in Stealth
Russian soldiers primarily use off-road models capable of navigating damaged roads, with prices ranging from $450 (2,000 PLN) to $2,200 (10,000 PLN) on the Polish market.
These models typically support a weight of around 330 pounds (150 kilograms), although a higher weight capacity of 440 pounds (200 kilograms) would be more suitable when carrying soldiers equipped with weapons and gear.
The scooters’ range varies significantly depending on the battery and motor specifications. Some models offer power outputs of 1,000 watts with a battery capacity of 17.5 amp-hours, while others reach up to 10,000 watts with 40 amp-hours.
Additionally, these batteries can double as power banks, allowing soldiers to charge electronic devices in areas with limited access to electricity.
There are distinct advantages and disadvantages to this form of transport. On the positive side, electric scooters can reach speeds of up to 37.3 miles per hour (60 kilometers per hour) while maintaining a low acoustic signature.
The electric motors are virtually silent compared to gas-powered motorcycles, providing a tactical advantage in stealth.
However, should these scooters be detected by the enemy, the odds of survival diminish significantly.
First-person view (FPV) drones have proven to be faster than any scooter or off-road motorcycle, as evidenced by numerous videos capturing drone strikes on fleeing targets. As a result, while the use of electric scooters may offer a temporary solution, it also exposes Russian soldiers to heightened risks on the battlefield.
