Ukraine’s motorcycle assault tactics are leading to needless losses, military observer warns

In a recent comment to Ukrinform and subsequent statements, Kovalenko expressed deep concern over footage circulated by Russian sources showing Ukrainian ATV and motorcycle convoys being tracked and targeted by Russian FPV drones. He described these units, “often comprising two soldiers on motorcycles armed with outdated Soviet AK-74U rifles,” as a “dangerous illusion” and a misguided attempt to emulate fast-moving tactics in a high-tech, firepower-saturated battlefield.

“From the very first video, many celebrated this idea without thinking. For me, it was a shock,” Kovalenko said. “This is not ingenuity — this is a tragedy in the making.”

According to Kovalenko, the enthusiastic response from some Ukrainian media and commentators has dangerously overshadowed the tactical reality: that such units are highly vulnerable and short-lived in combat zones. He estimates that a motorcycle assault company survives, on average, no more than 48 hours in active fighting.

“We create a unit, and two days later it no longer exists. What’s the point of that?” he asked.

Kovalenko also condemned the decision to assign motivated, well-trained soldiers to such units, stating that these fighters — now difficult to replace — are being sent to near-certain death.

“We are losing people we cannot afford to lose,” he noted.

He pointed out that Russia’s use of motorcycles and other light vehicles stems from its shortage of armored vehicles — not from tactical superiority. Ukrainian forces have repeatedly destroyed such units using drones, artillery, and small arms, he added.

“We’ve all seen the videos. Motorcycle groups are easy targets. A motorcycle is not protection — it’s exposure.”

While Kovalenko acknowledged that motorcycles can serve logistical purposes — such as transporting ammunition, evacuating the wounded, or supporting sabotage missions — he categorically opposed their use in direct assault roles. 

He emphasized that Ukraine must focus on preserving its personnel and maximizing its technological advantages.

“Ukraine is not fighting with ‘cannon fodder.’ We are fighting with brains and technology. We cannot afford to increase our losses.”

Reflecting on the motivation and determination of soldiers featured in the video by Ukraine's Skala unit, Kovalenko said he was deeply moved by their commitment to the fight, but found it all the more painful to see such fighters put at extreme risk.

“They believe in what they’re doing. They want to serve, to fight, to take revenge. But every one of them is worth their weight in gold. Sending them on motorcycles into direct assaults is something I cannot support.”