Russia prepares new offensive tactics for summer, fall in Ukraine - ISW

ISW analyses that Russia is likely preparing to systematically integrate the use of motorcycles into its offensive operations in Ukraine during the summer and fall of 2025, likely aiming to offset the expertise of Ukrainian drone operators.

Analysts note that on April 26, Russia’s Ministry of Defense released footage showing what appears to be soldiers from the 299th (Airborne) Regiment of the 98th Airborne Division practicing offensive and defensive tactics on motorcycles in groups of two to three at a training ground in Russia.

"The video indicates that the Russian military is likely developing a tactical doctrine for systematic offensive motorcycle usage and may be preparing to issue an increased number of motorcycles to Russian personnel in Ukraine," – ISW writes.

Additionally,  ISW added that Lieutenant Colonel Pavlo Shamshyn, spokesperson for Ukraine’s Kharkiv military grouping, reported that Ukrainian intelligence has observed Russian forces training soldiers in motorcycle combat tactics. This suggests that Russian troops will likely rely more heavily on motorcycles in offensive operations in Ukraine during the summer and fall of 2025.

• Chief of the Russian Armed Forces’ General Staff Valery Gerasimov has officially confirmed for the first time the participation of North Korean military personnel in the war against Ukraine.