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OK, USA
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Posted: 3/13/2024 7:52:12 AM EDT
[#1]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Capta: Our last chance to stop this was ten years ago, arguably 15 with Georgia. A decisive response then probably could’ve ended Putin’s reign and forced the power structure in Russia to re-evaluate their interests. Allowing the occupation of Crimea and eastern Ukraine made today inevitable. The comparison to Hitler is apt. Hitler could’ve easily become the dominant power in Europe without ever firing a shot. Stopping at the Anschluss would’ve made Germany the political and economic powerhouse in Europe without necessarily setting Germany on the path to a war they couldn’t win. Putin had the easiest gig in town and was well on his way towards a durable strategic relationship with Germany, a primary strategic goal for Russia for over a century. And he fucked it all into a cocked hat. The fact that we’re still in 1938 and Putin looks strong because of his “decisiveness” just like Hitler looked strong in 1938 because of his “decisiveness,” doesn’t change the fact that dictators make stupid decisions. Hitler did, Putin did. Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Capta: Originally Posted By K0UA: Originally Posted By Evintos: Originally Posted By AlmightyTallest: https://www.defensenews.com/industry/2023/10/16/french-firms-to-triple-155mm-ammo-production-boost-weapons-output/ I'm seeing some other tweets about Germany claiming 60% out of their own stockpiles sent to Ukraine but I can't find any legit sources for those claims. The French General's claim of 40% if accurate might also reflect Germany's (and the rest of Europe's militaries) personal stockpile issues. Even though France (and the rest of Europe) is ramping up production, I don't think Ukraine should expect much in terms of quantity delivered in 2024 and even 2025 versus what politicians promise/pledge. EU acknowledgement of delays in delivery last month and France, a country with one of the largest militaries in Europe, claiming personal stockpile issues (Germany likely having same issues) combined with recent efforts by the EU to source munitions from anywhere they can (versus February where Germany and France were arguing over where the money should be spent to acquire munitions) reinforces the idea that Europe is just about tapped out with production and delivery (gotta emphasize delivery). Ramped production will likely not being enough even by the end of the year. It will likely take years for production to reach proper scale (Rheinmetall factory construction for example estimated 1 year completion before initial production even starts for example). 2024 and likely 2025 is gonna be an even rougher year for Ukraine. The statement by the French General also runs contrary to the idea that NATO only needs or is investing/spending fractions of resources to cripple the Russian military. It is becoming increasingly clear that a significant amount of resources are required to combat a large scale "second-rate" military. I also constantly see this idea that US/NATO emptying older stockpiles means there will be better and more modern weapons but I think nations should take into account how rapidly the modern weaponry can be mass produced during major conflict. Maybe keeping an inventory of "dumb" weapons (and the factories) with simplified production is a good idea. Europe’s arms production is in ‘deep shit,’ says Belgian ex-general Click To View Spoiler Yeah, that's because everyone wants to spend money on butter and none on guns. After the fall of the USSR, everyone wanted to talk about the "peace dividend". There wasn't going to be any war with the USSR/Russia again. They were good boys now. They just want to sell us their natural recourses and rake in the money. No one listened to Putin just like no one listened to Adolph Hitler. The funny thing is about these despots is they ALWAYS tell you exactly what they are going to do to you. But no-one ever believes them. Well Russia raked in the money and rebuilt it's military. At least to a point. But no one felt threatened. "Can I have some more gas please? can we build another pipeline?" No one listened to George Patton when he said that Russia does not have a European mindset and we should stomp their guts out when we had the chance. Nope. Now we are so surprised when Europe's stockpiles are empty, their military industrial base is very weak, and it is going to take time. Well the War is going on right now. Ukraine is just the first step. And yet we dither, debate, and wring our hands. Those whom do not remember history are doomed to repeat it. Our last chance to stop this was ten years ago, arguably 15 with Georgia. A decisive response then probably could’ve ended Putin’s reign and forced the power structure in Russia to re-evaluate their interests. Allowing the occupation of Crimea and eastern Ukraine made today inevitable. The comparison to Hitler is apt. Hitler could’ve easily become the dominant power in Europe without ever firing a shot. Stopping at the Anschluss would’ve made Germany the political and economic powerhouse in Europe without necessarily setting Germany on the path to a war they couldn’t win. Putin had the easiest gig in town and was well on his way towards a durable strategic relationship with Germany, a primary strategic goal for Russia for over a century. And he fucked it all into a cocked hat. The fact that we’re still in 1938 and Putin looks strong because of his “decisiveness” just like Hitler looked strong in 1938 because of his “decisiveness,” doesn’t change the fact that dictators make stupid decisions. Hitler did, Putin did. Yup. I again recall the "we had a good thing going" speech from Breaking bad, where Mike was Europe and Walt was Russia. |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 8:16:17 AM EDT
[Last Edit: AlmightyTallest]
[#2]
Three helicopters struck with a cluster missile (Tornado-S), probably in order to make their evacuation impossible. The impact mainly came on 2 sides, the third was able to take off. After that, the remaining two helicopters were attacked with guided air missiles. Adjustment and visual fixation is performed by the Supercam S350 UAV. There should be no more doubt about Russia's ability to conduct real-time strikes on highly mobile AFU targets. The AFU needs to learn and change their tactics. This isn't the Russian military in 2022 anymore.  There is a 50km band behind the front lines where Russian forces are using ballistic missiles to hit high value targets. |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 8:19:35 AM EDT
[#3]
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Posted: 3/13/2024 8:20:16 AM EDT
[#4]
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Posted: 3/13/2024 8:22:04 AM EDT
[#5]
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Posted: 3/13/2024 8:23:49 AM EDT
[#6]
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Posted: 3/13/2024 8:25:34 AM EDT
[#7]
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Posted: 3/13/2024 8:27:33 AM EDT
[#8]
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Posted: 3/13/2024 8:32:12 AM EDT
[#9]
It's another day that ends in Y so more nuclear saber rattling from Putin.
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/putin-says-russia-ready-nuclear-war-not-everything-rushing-it-2024-03-13/ Putin warns the West: Russia is ready for nuclear war MOSCOW, March 13 (Reuters) - President Vladimir Putin warned the West on Wednesday Russia was technically ready for nuclear war and that if the U.S. sent troops to Ukraine, it would be considered a significant escalation of the conflict. Putin, speaking just days before a March 15-17 election which is certain to give him another six years in power, said the nuclear war scenario was not "rushing" up and he saw no need for the use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine. "From a military-technical point of view, we are, of course, ready," Putin, 71, told Rossiya-1 television and news agency RIA in response to a question whether the country was really ready for a nuclear war. Putin said the U.S. understood that if it deployed American troops on Russian territory - or to Ukraine - Russia would treat the move as an intervention. "(In the U.S.) there are enough specialists in the field of Russian-American relations and in the field of strategic restraint," said Putin, the ultimate decision maker in the world's biggest nuclear power. "Therefore, I don't think that here everything is rushing to it (nuclear confrontation), but we are ready for this." Putin's nuclear warning came alongside another offer for talks on Ukraine as part of a new post-Cold War demarcation of European security. The U.S. says Putin is not ready for serious talks over Ukraine. The war in Ukraine has triggered the deepest crisis in Russia's relations with the West since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis and Putin has warned several times the West risks provoking a nuclear war if it sends troops to fight in Ukraine. Putin sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine in February 2022, triggering full-scale war after eight years of conflict in eastern Ukraine between Ukrainian forces on one side and pro-Russian Ukrainians and Russian proxies on the other. NUCLEAR WAR? In a U.S. election year, the West is grappling with how to support Kyiv against Russia, which now controls almost one-fifth of Ukrainian territory and is rearming much faster than the West and Ukraine. Kyiv says it is defending itself against an imperial-style war of conquest designed to erase its national identity. Russia says the areas it controls in Ukraine are now Russia. Putin has sent a series of public nuclear warnings to the U.S. aimed at discouraging greater involvement in Ukraine - a move the Kremlin says would mark a slide into world war. Washington says it has seen no major changes to Russia's nuclear posture but Putin's public nuclear warnings - which break with the extreme caution of the Soviet leadership over such remarks - have sown concern in Washington. Putin reiterated the use of nuclear weapons was spelled out in the Kremlin's nuclear doctrine, which sets out the conditions under which it would use such a weapon: broadly a response to an attack using nuclear or other weapons of mass destruction, or the use of conventional weapons against Russia "when the very existence of the state is put under threat." "Weapons exist in order to use them," Putin said. "We have our own principles." CNN reported on Saturday the administration of U.S. President Joe Biden was specifically concerned in 2022 that Russia might use a tactical or battlefield nuclear weapon in Ukraine. Putin said he had never felt the need to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine. TALKS? Putin said Russia was ready for serious talks on Ukraine. "Russia is ready for negotiations on Ukraine, but they should be based on reality - and not on cravings after the use of psychotropic drugs," Putin said. Reuters reported last month that Putin's suggestion of a ceasefire in Ukraine to freeze the war was rejected by the U.S. after contacts between intermediaries. U.S. Central Intelligence Agency Director William Burns warned earlier this week that if the West did not provide proper support for Ukraine, Kyiv would lose more territory to Russia which would embolden Chinese President Xi Jinping. Burns, a former U.S. ambassador to Russia, told the Senate Intelligence Committee it was in U.S. interests to support Ukraine to allow it to get into a stronger position before talks. Putin said he trusted no one and Russia would need written security guarantees in the event of a settlement. "I don't trust anyone, but we need guarantees, and guarantees must be spelled out, they must be such that we would be satisfied," Putin said. |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 8:35:59 AM EDT
[Last Edit: AlmightyTallest]
[#10]
FPV's hunting individual Russian soldiers.
https://twitter.com/ipostdeadpigmen/status/1767806402775470512 |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 8:46:52 AM EDT
[Last Edit: doc540]
[#11]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By AlmightyTallest:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GIjL9FpXwAAescK?format=jpg&name=large There is a 50km band behind the front lines where Russian forces are using ballistic missiles to hit high value targets. Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By AlmightyTallest:
Three helicopters struck with a cluster missile (Tornado-S), probably in order to make their evacuation impossible. The impact mainly came on 2 sides, the third was able to take off. After that, the remaining two helicopters were attacked with guided air missiles. Adjustment and visual fixation is performed by the Supercam S350 UAV. There should be no more doubt about Russia's ability to conduct real-time strikes on highly mobile AFU targets. The AFU needs to learn and change their tactics. This isn't the Russian military in 2022 anymore. https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GIjL9FpXwAAescK?format=jpg&name=large There is a 50km band behind the front lines where Russian forces are using ballistic missiles to hit high value targets. Major fubar. 😞 |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 9:11:20 AM EDT
[#12]
Non governmental donations to Ukraine recently, the amount of FPV drones really adds up to what Ukraine is officially manufacturing in country.
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Posted: 3/13/2024 9:16:58 AM EDT
[#13]
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Posted: 3/13/2024 9:25:12 AM EDT
[#14]
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ME, USA
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Posted: 3/13/2024 9:27:17 AM EDT
[#15]
I've been following this thread since day one. I've missed pages here and there, but yeah. The work that goes into keeping us informed is so appreciated. There is great information here. Those of you who are compiling this info, please remember to take some time for yourselves. There has been a lot of unpleasant footage and news throughout this war and seeing so much so often can take a toll after a while.
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Posted: 3/13/2024 9:27:37 AM EDT
[Last Edit: AlmightyTallest]
[#16]
Fast fix, get the Mig 29's and Su-27's to fly with IR guided missiles to shoot down the Supercam drones near the front lines, having the radar of the aircraft look up, while flying very low to avoid Russian air defenses, or better yet, using the passive IRST of the Migs and Sus to spot the drones and fire at them. Problem is detection range for a Russian made aircraft radar and the infrared search and track system against a small target. |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 9:34:12 AM EDT
[#17]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By AlmightyTallest:
Good. This is Ukraine's best avenue for knocking them out of the war. |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 9:37:40 AM EDT
[Last Edit: AlmightyTallest]
[#18]
Question, is it possible to run drones at a frequency under 600MHz? To make them "out of band" for some radio frequency hand held detection systems?
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Posted: 3/13/2024 9:42:33 AM EDT
[#19]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Capta: I don’t think there’s any evidence to say that Europe (leave aside the US for now) won’t be able to supply a reasonable amount of artillery shells for two years. The supply issue has been a game of stretching/rationing stocks from various sources to bridge gaps and make sure that availability continues until production catches up. DPICM and the Czech group 155 buy are examples. Ukraine is still firing DPICM with an unknown quantity still available, and 1,000,000 shells is good for 2700 fired per day (vs about 2000 per day now) with no other sources coming in at all. This also says nothing about existing production in Europe, which has already increased significantly. Nor does it account for soviet-caliber artillery from Romania/Bulgaria or surplus finds from various places. Most estimates are that 2024 will be a lean year for 155 but 2025 will not. And either in a couple of weeks after the Russian election, or in November, US supply will reenter the equation. Frankly I’m not worried by the Russian influence ops that try to convince people the sky is falling when it isn’t. Note the same thing is also happening with the LR PGM supply. GMLRS has been rationed to fit the production rate and to get to new production GLSDB availability, Stormshadow/Scalp was rationed to get through to M39 ATACMS supply. It is not an accident that M39 supply is starting soon. A reasonable rationing rate of the older M39s will probably last 1.5-2 years. Russia is being bled white and they’re too stupid to figure it out. Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Capta: Originally Posted By Evintos: Originally Posted By AlmightyTallest: https://www.defensenews.com/industry/2023/10/16/french-firms-to-triple-155mm-ammo-production-boost-weapons-output/ I'm seeing some other tweets about Germany claiming 60% out of their own stockpiles sent to Ukraine but I can't find any legit sources for those claims. The French General's claim of 40% if accurate might also reflect Germany's (and the rest of Europe's militaries) personal stockpile issues. Even though France (and the rest of Europe) is ramping up production, I don't think Ukraine should expect much in terms of quantity delivered in 2024 and even 2025 versus what politicians promise/pledge. EU acknowledgement of delays in delivery last month and France, a country with one of the largest militaries in Europe, claiming personal stockpile issues (Germany likely having same issues) combined with recent efforts by the EU to source munitions from anywhere they can (versus February where Germany and France were arguing over where the money should be spent to acquire munitions) reinforces the idea that Europe is just about tapped out with production and delivery (gotta emphasize delivery). Ramped production will likely not being enough even by the end of the year. It will likely take years for production to reach proper scale (Rheinmetall factory construction for example estimated 1 year completion before initial production even starts for example). 2024 and likely 2025 is gonna be an even rougher year for Ukraine. The statement by the French General also runs contrary to the idea that NATO only needs or is investing/spending fractions of resources to cripple the Russian military. It is becoming increasingly clear that a significant amount of resources are required to combat a large scale "second-rate" military. I also constantly see this idea that US/NATO emptying older stockpiles means there will be better and more modern weapons but I think nations should take into account how rapidly the modern weaponry can be mass produced during major conflict. Maybe keeping an inventory of "dumb" weapons (and the factories) with simplified production is a good idea. Europe’s arms production is in ‘deep shit,’ says Belgian ex-general Click To View Spoiler I don’t think there’s any evidence to say that Europe (leave aside the US for now) won’t be able to supply a reasonable amount of artillery shells for two years. The supply issue has been a game of stretching/rationing stocks from various sources to bridge gaps and make sure that availability continues until production catches up. DPICM and the Czech group 155 buy are examples. Ukraine is still firing DPICM with an unknown quantity still available, and 1,000,000 shells is good for 2700 fired per day (vs about 2000 per day now) with no other sources coming in at all. This also says nothing about existing production in Europe, which has already increased significantly. Nor does it account for soviet-caliber artillery from Romania/Bulgaria or surplus finds from various places. Most estimates are that 2024 will be a lean year for 155 but 2025 will not. And either in a couple of weeks after the Russian election, or in November, US supply will reenter the equation. Frankly I’m not worried by the Russian influence ops that try to convince people the sky is falling when it isn’t. Note the same thing is also happening with the LR PGM supply. GMLRS has been rationed to fit the production rate and to get to new production GLSDB availability, Stormshadow/Scalp was rationed to get through to M39 ATACMS supply. It is not an accident that M39 supply is starting soon. A reasonable rationing rate of the older M39s will probably last 1.5-2 years. Russia is being bled white and they’re too stupid to figure it out. So I am particularly ok with Europe taking the charge on arming Ukrainians than the USA … now we shouldn’t let go of the support but fellow allies in that region need to be the driving force with us providing supplementary aid. This might be a turning point for Europe to finally get out of the trenches and rely on each other in a more cohesive way. |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 9:43:48 AM EDT
[Last Edit: AlmightyTallest]
[#20]
Note that it is the cardboard/wood drones from Australia I think, or modeled after them.
   
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Posted: 3/13/2024 9:44:45 AM EDT
[#21]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By thehun06: So I am particularly ok with Europe taking the charge on arming Ukrainians than the USA … now we shouldn’t let go of the support but fellow allies in that region need to be the driving force with us providing supplementary aid. This might be a turning point for Europe to finally get out of the trenches and rely on each other in a more cohesive way. Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By thehun06: Originally Posted By Capta: Originally Posted By Evintos: Originally Posted By AlmightyTallest: https://www.defensenews.com/industry/2023/10/16/french-firms-to-triple-155mm-ammo-production-boost-weapons-output/ I'm seeing some other tweets about Germany claiming 60% out of their own stockpiles sent to Ukraine but I can't find any legit sources for those claims. The French General's claim of 40% if accurate might also reflect Germany's (and the rest of Europe's militaries) personal stockpile issues. Even though France (and the rest of Europe) is ramping up production, I don't think Ukraine should expect much in terms of quantity delivered in 2024 and even 2025 versus what politicians promise/pledge. EU acknowledgement of delays in delivery last month and France, a country with one of the largest militaries in Europe, claiming personal stockpile issues (Germany likely having same issues) combined with recent efforts by the EU to source munitions from anywhere they can (versus February where Germany and France were arguing over where the money should be spent to acquire munitions) reinforces the idea that Europe is just about tapped out with production and delivery (gotta emphasize delivery). Ramped production will likely not being enough even by the end of the year. It will likely take years for production to reach proper scale (Rheinmetall factory construction for example estimated 1 year completion before initial production even starts for example). 2024 and likely 2025 is gonna be an even rougher year for Ukraine. The statement by the French General also runs contrary to the idea that NATO only needs or is investing/spending fractions of resources to cripple the Russian military. It is becoming increasingly clear that a significant amount of resources are required to combat a large scale "second-rate" military. I also constantly see this idea that US/NATO emptying older stockpiles means there will be better and more modern weapons but I think nations should take into account how rapidly the modern weaponry can be mass produced during major conflict. Maybe keeping an inventory of "dumb" weapons (and the factories) with simplified production is a good idea. Europe’s arms production is in ‘deep shit,’ says Belgian ex-general Click To View Spoiler I don’t think there’s any evidence to say that Europe (leave aside the US for now) won’t be able to supply a reasonable amount of artillery shells for two years. The supply issue has been a game of stretching/rationing stocks from various sources to bridge gaps and make sure that availability continues until production catches up. DPICM and the Czech group 155 buy are examples. Ukraine is still firing DPICM with an unknown quantity still available, and 1,000,000 shells is good for 2700 fired per day (vs about 2000 per day now) with no other sources coming in at all. This also says nothing about existing production in Europe, which has already increased significantly. Nor does it account for soviet-caliber artillery from Romania/Bulgaria or surplus finds from various places. Most estimates are that 2024 will be a lean year for 155 but 2025 will not. And either in a couple of weeks after the Russian election, or in November, US supply will reenter the equation. Frankly I’m not worried by the Russian influence ops that try to convince people the sky is falling when it isn’t. Note the same thing is also happening with the LR PGM supply. GMLRS has been rationed to fit the production rate and to get to new production GLSDB availability, Stormshadow/Scalp was rationed to get through to M39 ATACMS supply. It is not an accident that M39 supply is starting soon. A reasonable rationing rate of the older M39s will probably last 1.5-2 years. Russia is being bled white and they’re too stupid to figure it out. So I am particularly ok with Europe taking the charge on arming Ukrainians than the USA … now we shouldn’t let go of the support but fellow allies in that region need to be the driving force with us providing supplementary aid. This might be a turning point for Europe to finally get out of the trenches and rely on each other in a more cohesive way. That is how I see it unfolding. They are slower to get moving, but eventually it seems they are starting to move in this direction. |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 9:45:39 AM EDT
[#22]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Capta: Our last chance to stop this was ten years ago, arguably 15 with Georgia. A decisive response then probably could’ve ended Putin’s reign and forced the power structure in Russia to re-evaluate their interests. Allowing the occupation of Crimea and eastern Ukraine made today inevitable. The comparison to Hitler is apt. Hitler could’ve easily become the dominant power in Europe without ever firing a shot. Stopping at the Anschluss would’ve made Germany the political and economic powerhouse in Europe without necessarily setting Germany on the path to a war they couldn’t win. Putin had the easiest gig in town and was well on his way towards a durable strategic relationship with Germany, a primary strategic goal for Russia for over a century. And he fucked it all into a cocked hat. The fact that we’re still in 1938 and Putin looks strong because of his “decisiveness” just like Hitler looked strong in 1938 because of his “decisiveness,” doesn’t change the fact that dictators make stupid decisions. Hitler did, Putin did. Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Capta: Originally Posted By K0UA: Originally Posted By Evintos: Originally Posted By AlmightyTallest: https://www.defensenews.com/industry/2023/10/16/french-firms-to-triple-155mm-ammo-production-boost-weapons-output/ I'm seeing some other tweets about Germany claiming 60% out of their own stockpiles sent to Ukraine but I can't find any legit sources for those claims. The French General's claim of 40% if accurate might also reflect Germany's (and the rest of Europe's militaries) personal stockpile issues. Even though France (and the rest of Europe) is ramping up production, I don't think Ukraine should expect much in terms of quantity delivered in 2024 and even 2025 versus what politicians promise/pledge. EU acknowledgement of delays in delivery last month and France, a country with one of the largest militaries in Europe, claiming personal stockpile issues (Germany likely having same issues) combined with recent efforts by the EU to source munitions from anywhere they can (versus February where Germany and France were arguing over where the money should be spent to acquire munitions) reinforces the idea that Europe is just about tapped out with production and delivery (gotta emphasize delivery). Ramped production will likely not being enough even by the end of the year. It will likely take years for production to reach proper scale (Rheinmetall factory construction for example estimated 1 year completion before initial production even starts for example). 2024 and likely 2025 is gonna be an even rougher year for Ukraine. The statement by the French General also runs contrary to the idea that NATO only needs or is investing/spending fractions of resources to cripple the Russian military. It is becoming increasingly clear that a significant amount of resources are required to combat a large scale "second-rate" military. I also constantly see this idea that US/NATO emptying older stockpiles means there will be better and more modern weapons but I think nations should take into account how rapidly the modern weaponry can be mass produced during major conflict. Maybe keeping an inventory of "dumb" weapons (and the factories) with simplified production is a good idea. Europe’s arms production is in ‘deep shit,’ says Belgian ex-general Click To View Spoiler Yeah, that's because everyone wants to spend money on butter and none on guns. After the fall of the USSR, everyone wanted to talk about the "peace dividend". There wasn't going to be any war with the USSR/Russia again. They were good boys now. They just want to sell us their natural recourses and rake in the money. No one listened to Putin just like no one listened to Adolph Hitler. The funny thing is about these despots is they ALWAYS tell you exactly what they are going to do to you. But no-one ever believes them. Well Russia raked in the money and rebuilt it's military. At least to a point. But no one felt threatened. "Can I have some more gas please? can we build another pipeline?" No one listened to George Patton when he said that Russia does not have a European mindset and we should stomp their guts out when we had the chance. Nope. Now we are so surprised when Europe's stockpiles are empty, their military industrial base is very weak, and it is going to take time. Well the War is going on right now. Ukraine is just the first step. And yet we dither, debate, and wring our hands. Those whom do not remember history are doomed to repeat it. Our last chance to stop this was ten years ago, arguably 15 with Georgia. A decisive response then probably could’ve ended Putin’s reign and forced the power structure in Russia to re-evaluate their interests. Allowing the occupation of Crimea and eastern Ukraine made today inevitable. The comparison to Hitler is apt. Hitler could’ve easily become the dominant power in Europe without ever firing a shot. Stopping at the Anschluss would’ve made Germany the political and economic powerhouse in Europe without necessarily setting Germany on the path to a war they couldn’t win. Putin had the easiest gig in town and was well on his way towards a durable strategic relationship with Germany, a primary strategic goal for Russia for over a century. And he fucked it all into a cocked hat. The fact that we’re still in 1938 and Putin looks strong because of his “decisiveness” just like Hitler looked strong in 1938 because of his “decisiveness,” doesn’t change the fact that dictators make stupid decisions. Hitler did, Putin did. The difference this time is that the "Anschluß |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 9:47:31 AM EDT
[#23]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Prime:
The number of people injured in a Ukrainian Armed Forces drone strike on an oil refinery in Ryazan has risen to three. MOSCOW, March 13 - RIA Novosti. Three people were injured, according to updated data, during an attack by Ukrainian UAVs on an oil refinery in Ryazan, a representative of the emergency services told RIA Novosti. On Wednesday morning, the unified duty dispatch service told RIA Novosti that a unit was on fire at an oil refinery in Ryazan , and firefighters were working. The governor of the Ryazan region, Pavel Malkov, reported that the oil refinery was attacked by a UAV. Two casualties were reported. “According to updated data, three people were injured when four Ukrainian Armed Forces drones struck the plant,” the agency’s interlocutor said. He noted that information about the third victim was received at 08.50. “All the victims have shrapnel wounds, including their faces,” the agency’s interlocutor added. According to emergency services, two oil refining units on an area of 175 square meters are burning due to an attack by Ukrainian drones. https://ria.ru/20240313/ryazan-1932667126.html
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GIiIrJYWQAANdl6?format=jpg&name=small
It is the way to truly hurt Russia … is hitting targets like these. |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 9:54:14 AM EDT
[Last Edit: AlmightyTallest]
[#24]
This can work both ways, be very careful.
   
 
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Posted: 3/13/2024 10:01:27 AM EDT
[Last Edit: AlmightyTallest]
[#25]
https://solectricasia.com/our-products/sol-companion-2/  
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Posted: 3/13/2024 10:06:14 AM EDT
[#26]
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ME, USA
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Posted: 3/13/2024 10:10:10 AM EDT
[#27]
I guess I was too chatty, so I had to split this post up.
I've been thinking a bit. If I were a western leader, thinking only in cold, strategic terms I would be thinking like this: I would for sure want Russia to be fucked up. Not quite to the point of utter destruction, but hurting. I would also prefer a weakened post-war Ukraine - a weakened Ukraine would be easier to exploit for its resources. To do this, I'd slow-roll aid to Ukraine. I'd send enough to say I'm doing something, but not too much to actually change anything significantly. Again, maybe I prefer the current Russian leadership over potential chaos in a nuclear-armed nation and maybe I don't really want my boogeyman of 70+ years to disappear. I would also not send the aid in any sort of lump sum but instead in small installments, what I call the Rent-A-Center effect - you might pay more, but it doesn't feel that way if it's only a little at a time. |
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ME, USA
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Posted: 3/13/2024 10:10:51 AM EDT
[#28]
This somewhat pacifies those who are bitching about sending too much money to Ukraine while also somewhat pleasing those who want to send more, blunting both sides of the argument. Ideal end result: Ukraine wins, but not too much, and becomes a reliable ally and continues to be a buffer between the west and Russia, but not a NATO member. Its resources are then exploited by the west. Russia, a main adversary, is weakened for generations to come, giving us the ability to focus our attention on a more formidable adversary, China. A potential bonus: China, a resource-starved and overpopulated country takes a close look at its resource-rich and underpopulated neighbor and decides to move into eastern Russia. Then we've got two of our adversaries weakening each other while we watch from afar and continue buying plastic garbage from China. While Russia is busy with that shit, we slip a NATO invite under Ukraine's door. We continue modernizing and replacing the hardware we gave away and get even stronger, comparatively. There are for sure a lot of wild cards but that's just how I might think if I were a powerful sociopath playing the long game.
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Posted: 3/13/2024 10:14:56 AM EDT
[Last Edit: AlmightyTallest]
[#29]
Ukraine to strike the oil refineries. This one was hit but small arms fire and crashed in the Veronezh area of Russia. It is NOT a Mugin-5 as I previously speculated.  
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Posted: 3/13/2024 10:18:28 AM EDT
[Last Edit: Easterner]
[#30]
The boys are having a spicy time with this push. Made a run out to them today and stopped to get them some comfort items to brighten their spirits. I've never seen someone so happy to see a banana. It's been rough out there.
https://x.com/SPETactSurplus/status/1767915445414203834?s=20  Attached FileVideos to come once we are out of harm's way and in a new location. FPVs, aviation, artillery, mortars, and tanks are causing some problems. A rush job to get some equipment ready one day, and then the same equipment gets lost in a strike.  Attached FileDonate here VVVV https://spe-tactical-surplus.com/Donate-to-Ukraine-_c_85.html Thanks for the help guys. We hope we will see victory in the near future. Слава Україні 🇺🇦 |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 10:24:16 AM EDT
[#31]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Easterner: The boys are having a spicy time with this push. Made a run out to them today and stopped to get them some comfort items to brighten their spirits. I've never seen someone so happy to see a banana. It's been rough out there. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/526834/Screenshot_20240313-155911_2_png-3157853.JPG Videos to come once we are out of harm's way and in a new location. FPVs, aviation, artillery, mortars, and tanks are causing some problems. A rush job to get some equipment ready one day, and then the same equipment gets lost in a strike. https://x.com/SPETactSurplus/status/1767915445414203834?s=20 https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/526834/Screenshot_20240313-160338_2_png-3157860.JPG https://spe-tactical-surplus.com/Donate-to-Ukraine-_c_85.html Thanks for the help guys. We hope we will see victory in the near future. Слава Україні 🇺🇦 Always glad to hear from you and see what good you are doing, always stay safe man. 
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Posted: 3/13/2024 10:24:47 AM EDT
[#32]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By AlmightyTallest: Question, is it possible to run drones at a frequency under 600MHz? To make them "out of band" for some radio frequency hand held detection systems? Yes. The limitations are antennas as the lower the frequency, the antenna needs to be longer, and adapting the system to drones. I am surprised that they haven't somehow adapted baofengs into the control systems on the drones. |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 10:27:04 AM EDT
[#33]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By lorazepam: Yes. The limitations are antennas as the lower the frequency, the antenna needs to be longer, and adapting the system to drones. I am surprised that they haven't somehow adapted baofengs into the control systems on the drones. Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By lorazepam: Originally Posted By AlmightyTallest: Question, is it possible to run drones at a frequency under 600MHz? To make them "out of band" for some radio frequency hand held detection systems? Yes. The limitations are antennas as the lower the frequency, the antenna needs to be longer, and adapting the system to drones. I am surprised that they haven't somehow adapted baofengs into the control systems on the drones. Thanks, I am seeing a lot of Russian drone detection equipment, but it mostly seems to work down to 600MHz, and goes way up to 6GHz, so I just wondered if the Ukrainians had a window to work in. |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 10:58:50 AM EDT
[Last Edit: weptek911]
[#34]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By doc540: What effect would 30 or 40 glide bombs have on these fortifications? Are you kidding? Russians aren’t going to waste 1500 pound bombs on fortifications as long as hospitals, churches, high rise apartments and orphanages exist. |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 11:40:36 AM EDT
[#35]
 
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Posted: 3/13/2024 11:42:11 AM EDT
[#36]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By AlmightyTallest: Question, is it possible to run drones at a frequency under 600MHz? To make them "out of band" for some radio frequency hand held detection systems? I've flown ones that used the 433Mhz band. I suspect it's doable for them as well. It's kinda hard to get too far out of the band the RF chip sets are designed to operate in, though. |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 11:43:39 AM EDT
[#37]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By AlmightyTallest: Note that it is the cardboard/wood drones from Australia I think, or modeled after them.
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GIe2ne2XIAAHs1G?format=jpg&name=900x900 https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GIe2ne0XYAAsqHB?format=jpg&name=large https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GIe2oX7XQAACCZj?format=jpg&name=small https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GIe2oXwXEAACTqO?format=jpg&name=small Looks like foamcore structure. Very, very cheap to build. Not very durable but really cheap (and light). |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 11:48:34 AM EDT
[#38]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By weptek911: Are you kidding? Russians aren’t going to waste 1500 pound bombs on fortifications as long as hospitals, churches, high rise apartments and orphanages exist. Actually they have been using a shit ton of glide bombs. They wreck shit and there isn't but a few minutes notice before they hit.
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Posted: 3/13/2024 1:46:00 PM EDT
[#39]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Prime: It’s pretty far outside my lane, but I got to meet Capt. Al Haynes once and hear him talk about UA 232, so I’m pretty much an expert  I’d be surprised if a competent investigation found no training or maintenance deficiencies. 2009  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=20ysr080y4EQuote HistoryOriginally Posted By Prime: Originally Posted By Capta: Crash videos of the IL-76. The accident happened on takeoff when the plane would be heavy. The IL may have already been out of control in all videos - as it’s in a shallow right bank toward the dead/burning engine, and probably descending. This would make sense if they had a hydraulic failure as a result of the engine failure, leaving them with really no option to level the plane. If they were in control it would make more sense to see them yawing left a bit so they could run up their port engines to stay airborne. On a swept-wing aircraft yaw is highly effective in counteracting opposite roll, often more so than the ailerons. Generally you never want to turn into the dead engine(s).They may have also kept power on the burning engine to try to pick up the right wing, until ultimately the whole engine fell off. Who knows. In this video, the second segment was chronologically first. The first segment comes after that as it shows an engine and probably pylon falling off the wing. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4tpFuTYavKkMultiple views. Anything on fire is likely early. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tr7W-Z-lQH8It’s pretty far outside my lane, but I got to meet Capt. Al Haynes once and hear him talk about UA 232, so I’m pretty much an expert I’d be surprised if a competent investigation found no training or maintenance deficiencies. 2009 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=20ysr080y4EMy dad flew C-141s for the USAF and told me about this incident which happened in 1977. Not him, but he knew the pilot. They descended below field level into a dry riverbed before arresting their descent with remaining two engines firewalled in an amazing feat of airmanship. He said the 141 was an amazing aircraft with an unbelievable amount of redundancy, which it wouldn’t surprise me if IL-76s lack. C-141 incident, right inboard exploded and destroyed right outboard on takeoff, plus started fire in fuselage. |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 1:52:58 PM EDT
[#40]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By PMB1086: More Russian oil facilities up in smoke.
Get a good look Russians, this is the beginning of your economy going down in flames. |
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NC, USA
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Posted: 3/13/2024 1:54:56 PM EDT
[#41]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Capta: My dad flew C-141s for the USAF and told me about this incident which happened in 1977. Not him, but he knew the pilot. They descended below field level into a dry riverbed before arresting their descent with remaining two engines firewalled in an amazing feat of airmanship. He said the 141 was an amazing aircraft with an unbelievable amount of redundancy, which it wouldn’t surprise me if IL-76s lack. C-141 incident, right inboard exploded and destroyed right outboard on takeoff, plus started fire in fuselage. C141 was my favorite aircraft to jump from was sad when they went away |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 2:01:50 PM EDT
[#42]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By MKSheppard: I think the reason for the slow drone strike optempo earlier was that Ukraine had ordered long range strike drones from 5 to 7 companies, and was taking the time to find out which variants worked before down-selecting to the two best variants. Now those drones have been chosen and are entering full production at a steadily increasing rate, enabling strikes like this on shorter and shorter timescales. EDIT: Look at the naval strike drones -- Generation 1 and 2 were kind of meh and only were used once in a blue moon. Now that we're on Generation 3 of naval drones, we're seeing almost weekly strikes with them. Also...
Scratch one cracking tower! |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 2:04:00 PM EDT
[#43]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Prime: Stop everything and appreciate how hilarious this is. In Ryazan, on the eve of the UAV attack on the oil plant, the championship of the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations started, where the elite of the department and the best employees of the Ministry of Emergency Situations gathered. The sports arena where the event takes place is located across the fence from the oil refinery. The entire minister’s staff and the head of the department himself are present at the competition. https://t.me/vchkogpu/46553 https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GIijFbqWMAANC6P?format=jpg&name=large https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GIijFcVXAAA-Q_0?format=jpg&name=large That’s next-level trolling right there. Would love a group pic with pillars of smoke in the background. |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 2:35:22 PM EDT
[#44]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By thehun06: So I am particularly ok with Europe taking the charge on arming Ukrainians than the USA … now we shouldn’t let go of the support but fellow allies in that region need to be the driving force with us providing supplementary aid. This might be a turning point for Europe to finally get out of the trenches and rely on each other in a more cohesive way. Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By thehun06: Originally Posted By Capta: Originally Posted By Evintos: Originally Posted By AlmightyTallest: https://www.defensenews.com/industry/2023/10/16/french-firms-to-triple-155mm-ammo-production-boost-weapons-output/ I'm seeing some other tweets about Germany claiming 60% out of their own stockpiles sent to Ukraine but I can't find any legit sources for those claims. The French General's claim of 40% if accurate might also reflect Germany's (and the rest of Europe's militaries) personal stockpile issues. Even though France (and the rest of Europe) is ramping up production, I don't think Ukraine should expect much in terms of quantity delivered in 2024 and even 2025 versus what politicians promise/pledge. EU acknowledgement of delays in delivery last month and France, a country with one of the largest militaries in Europe, claiming personal stockpile issues (Germany likely having same issues) combined with recent efforts by the EU to source munitions from anywhere they can (versus February where Germany and France were arguing over where the money should be spent to acquire munitions) reinforces the idea that Europe is just about tapped out with production and delivery (gotta emphasize delivery). Ramped production will likely not being enough even by the end of the year. It will likely take years for production to reach proper scale (Rheinmetall factory construction for example estimated 1 year completion before initial production even starts for example). 2024 and likely 2025 is gonna be an even rougher year for Ukraine. The statement by the French General also runs contrary to the idea that NATO only needs or is investing/spending fractions of resources to cripple the Russian military. It is becoming increasingly clear that a significant amount of resources are required to combat a large scale "second-rate" military. I also constantly see this idea that US/NATO emptying older stockpiles means there will be better and more modern weapons but I think nations should take into account how rapidly the modern weaponry can be mass produced during major conflict. Maybe keeping an inventory of "dumb" weapons (and the factories) with simplified production is a good idea. Europe’s arms production is in ‘deep shit,’ says Belgian ex-general Click To View Spoiler I don’t think there’s any evidence to say that Europe (leave aside the US for now) won’t be able to supply a reasonable amount of artillery shells for two years. The supply issue has been a game of stretching/rationing stocks from various sources to bridge gaps and make sure that availability continues until production catches up. DPICM and the Czech group 155 buy are examples. Ukraine is still firing DPICM with an unknown quantity still available, and 1,000,000 shells is good for 2700 fired per day (vs about 2000 per day now) with no other sources coming in at all. This also says nothing about existing production in Europe, which has already increased significantly. Nor does it account for soviet-caliber artillery from Romania/Bulgaria or surplus finds from various places. Most estimates are that 2024 will be a lean year for 155 but 2025 will not. And either in a couple of weeks after the Russian election, or in November, US supply will reenter the equation. Frankly I’m not worried by the Russian influence ops that try to convince people the sky is falling when it isn’t. Note the same thing is also happening with the LR PGM supply. GMLRS has been rationed to fit the production rate and to get to new production GLSDB availability, Stormshadow/Scalp was rationed to get through to M39 ATACMS supply. It is not an accident that M39 supply is starting soon. A reasonable rationing rate of the older M39s will probably last 1.5-2 years. Russia is being bled white and they’re too stupid to figure it out. So I am particularly ok with Europe taking the charge on arming Ukrainians than the USA … now we shouldn’t let go of the support but fellow allies in that region need to be the driving force with us providing supplementary aid. This might be a turning point for Europe to finally get out of the trenches and rely on each other in a more cohesive way. I somewhat understand this perspective, but I think it has very serious downsides that aren’t being considered. |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 2:37:46 PM EDT
[#45]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Easterner: The boys are having a spicy time with this push. Made a run out to them today and stopped to get them some comfort items to brighten their spirits. I've never seen someone so happy to see a banana. It's been rough out there. https://x.com/SPETactSurplus/status/1767915445414203834?s=20 https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/526834/Screenshot_20240313-155911_2_png-3157853.JPG Videos to come once we are out of harm's way and in a new location. FPVs, aviation, artillery, mortars, and tanks are causing some problems. A rush job to get some equipment ready one day, and then the same equipment gets lost in a strike. https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/526834/Screenshot_20240313-160338_2_png-3157860.JPG Donate here VVVV https://spe-tactical-surplus.com/Donate-to-Ukraine-_c_85.html Thanks for the help guys. We hope we will see victory in the near future. Слава Україні 🇺🇦 Good to hear from you. Front-line combat can be Hell on equipment and people. God Bless You and your comrades and keep safe! |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 2:54:11 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Prime]
[#46]
   
 
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WY, USA
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Posted: 3/13/2024 3:02:09 PM EDT
[#47]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By AlmightyTallest: Note that it is the cardboard/wood drones from Australia I think, or modeled after them.
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GIe2ne2XIAAHs1G?format=jpg&name=900x900 https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GIe2ne0XYAAsqHB?format=jpg&name=large https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GIe2oX7XQAACCZj?format=jpg&name=small https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GIe2oXwXEAACTqO?format=jpg&name=small It's been talked about in this thread forever. No we get to see it |
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Posted: 3/13/2024 3:04:45 PM EDT
[#48]
Quote HistoryOriginally Posted By Capta: Get a good look Russians, this is the beginning of your economy going down in flames. Now crank it up 500 percent. One refinery a day keeps the Russian economy in flames
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Posted: 3/13/2024 3:05:59 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Prime]
[#49]
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Posted: 3/13/2024 3:09:43 PM EDT
[#50]
 
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