UGV와 참호전

[백선호]

러시아-우크라이나 전쟁이 드론이 떠 있는 1차대전 참호전과 비슷한 모양이 되면서 UGV로 참호를 돌파하려는 아이디어가 나오는 듯 하네요. 1차대전 때는 탱크로 참호를 돌파했듯이.

International Defence Review

Andrew White

01-Feb-2024

No-man's land: Trench warfare in Ukraine takes a technological turn

As the war in Ukraine approaches its second anniversary, the conflict has become increasingly attritional and both sides have built extensive networks of trenches to retain territory. Andrew White explores the technology and tactics defining modern trench warfare

Russia and Ukraine appear to be engaged in ‘trench warfare' – a dynamic rarely seen since the First World War, when opposing sides conducted highly dangerous assaults across ‘no-man's land' to capture metres of ground.

On the 495th day of the war in July 2023, Poland's Centre for Eastern Studies (OSW) suggested the conflict had already turned to trench warfare, explaining, “The military operations have again entered the phase of trench warfare, with the Ukrainians attacking with smaller forces than they did in the first weeks of the offensive (with company tactical groups at most).”

A BIA5 rendering of UGVs fitted with RWS in trench warfare. (BIA5)

“Nonetheless, it must be assumed that they still believe they can reach the first line of the enemy's defence and break through it with a massive attack using more of their reserves than before,” the OSW noted at the time.

Examples of trench networks include Ukraine's so-called Donbas line, which features multiple layers, often located in the vicinity of natural barriers such as rivers and lakes.

The Russian Armed Forces also rely on trench networks including the ‘Surovikin Line' that can be as much as 2 m deep and 1.5 m wide, enabling relatively quick and easy troop movements along the forward edge of the battle area.

Some trenches have roof sections for protection against enemy sensors and indirect fire such as mortars and artillery, as well as ‘fox holes' and other firing positions.

Footage continues to emerge from the conflict showing the Ukrainian armed forces engaging enemy armoured platforms from trenches using heavy machine guns and anti-tank weapons. Also proliferating on social media channels is imagery of special operations forces and infantry units employing close-quarters battle (CQB) tactics to clear trenches of enemy forces.

Other videos emerging from the conflict also illustrate the utility of weaponised, commercial first-person view (FPV) drones as well as more expensive, specialist loitering munition (LM) technologies used in a ‘top attack' fashion against forces in trench networks.

On 7 December NATO confirmed soldiers from the Ukraine armed forces were undertaking trench warfare training in Poland. According to NATO, soldiers were being trained by personnel from alliance members including Belgium, France, and Poland attached to the Combined Arms Training Command (CAT-C).

US Army soldiers with Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, clear a trench during a live-fire exercise at Marine Corps Base Hawaii Range Training Facility. (Lance Cpl. Terry Stennett)

 
Ukrainian army soldiers learnt how to use infantry tactics, armoured vehicles, and artillery to clear trenches during training in Poland. The training was the culmination of weeks of efforts for the soldiers assigned to a Ukrainian airborne battalion. Most of them had no military experience prior to arriving in Poland, a Ukrainian officer who observed the training said, but they now know how to shoot, move, and communicate effectively.

Participating personnel were observed conducting “training assault[s] on a trench line” using a variety of assault rifles; sniper rifles; and light, medium, and heavy machine guns, NATO said. Troops were also supported by BMP-type armoured personnel carriers.

The conflict in Ukraine has shown certain emerging and disruptive technologies can be used offensively or defensively in trench warfare.

Examples include semi-autonomous platforms of all types operating in the air, and uncrewed ground vehicles (UGVs) on land, including with remote weapon stations (RWSs), for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) as well as strike operations. Also critical to the defence of a trench network are electronic warfare (EW) systems and, in particular, counter-drone solutions.

Some defensive solutions are more doctrinal. “Trenches in open ground are too easily targeted, so they should be dug along treelines and other areas where there is overhead cover, thereby obscuring where in a trench there are entrances to hardened positions,” UK's Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) noted in its Preliminary Lessons in Conventional Warfighting from Russia's Invasion of Ukraine: February–July 2022 report documented at the end of 2022.

“Hardening positions – including entrances to trench structures – also requires the establishment of UAS [uncrewed aircraft system] detection and laser detection with countermeasures, such as smoke grenades. For any force required to hold vital ground, which is therefore restricted in its ability to displace and manoeuvre, excavation equipment should be available to rapidly emplace hardened defences,” the report said.

Airborne solutions

On 31 October 2023 the US Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) hosted the Ukraine and the Future of Unmanned Aerial Systems forum in Warsaw, Poland, in co-operation with NATO and the Ukrainian government's ‘defence technology cluster'.

Armed forces, government, and industry representatives discussed challenges arising from Ukraine's battlefield and how emerging technologies could satisfy troops' needs.

According to Ukraine's Deputy Minister of Digital Transformation Yegor Dubinsky, the event resulted in a “joint search for UAS solutions; review of organisational and regulatory problems; [and] outline for public-private and international partnership”, providing users with an “understanding of the current situation and needs and … a road map of co-operation for the near future”.

A model of the AeroVironment Switchblade 300 loitering munition on display at the 2021 Association of the United States Army trade show in Washington, DC. (Janes/Pat Host)

AeroVironment vice-president Charlie Dean told Janes at the DIU forum that loitering munitions could be used to strike enemy forces hiding in well-protected trench networks.

Through the US government, AeroVironment has supplied the Ukraine armed forces with a variety of UAS and loitering munitions, including Puma and Switchblade 300 and 600 variants, although operational details of their employment in Ukraine are classified.

The company was unwilling to provide any further comment regarding the utility of its products in trench warfare in Ukraine, according to an official.

Also providing loitering munition technologies to the Ukraine armed forces is Polish company WB Group, which has supplied an undisclosed number of Warmate systems since the war began in 2022.

WB Group's Warmate loitering munition, as used by the Polish Armed Forces, is also being deployed by Ukrainian armed forces. (Andrew White)

WB America's president Jim Curtin told Janes the resurrection of trench warfare in Ukraine means dismounted units need to remotely find, fix, and neutralise adversaries in a trench complex.

“The focus on counter-terrorism (CT) and counter-insurgency (COIN) over the past two decades has created a force that is focused on being dynamic and agile with its responses. This has led to a heightened use of special force units, [which] can create short-term, high-intensity actions.

“The result has led to a supply chain that is designed around these sort of high-intensity, short-duration actions rather than medium-to-high intensity actions with longer durations as we see in the trenches [of Ukraine]. This has also put more emphasis on sustained surveillance over time,” Curtin said.

With a maximum take-off weight of 5.7 kg, WB Group's Warmate has an operating range of 30 km and can loiter around an area of interest for a maximum of 60 minutes before detecting a target and attacking at speeds up to 150 km/h, according to a company factsheet.

Warmate loitering munitions can mount various interchangeable warheads, including high-explosive (HE) and thermobaric ones, capable of neutralising targets in cover.

Curtin said loitering munitions and drones could also benefit from EW and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.

“First and foremost in terms of EW and signals intelligence, our surveillance efforts need to go beyond what we've used against low[er] tech opposition in the Middle East,” he said. “The growth of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence will become the next technology to drive change. Machine learning is used for lower-level activities such as object recognition to produce a result of some probability. Artificial intelligence, on the other hand, seeks to take a range of data, both raw and prepared ML results, examine the data, and apply a complex algorithm to produce a ‘human-like' result.

“By creating an architecture where lowest echelon units are producing ML-prepared data, and higher echelons producing human-like AI results, we can begin to understand and project tactics and strategies of the opposition. This in turn allows for more accurate responses and logistics,” he suggested.

Additional airborne solutions used in Ukraine include DefendTex's D-40 solution, described by the company as an “autonomous, loitering grenade … [providing] a soldier with multiple round simultaneous impact capabilities”.

Either hand-launched or fired from any conventional handheld, tripod, or vehicle-mounted 40 mm grenade launcher, the recoverable and reusable solution has a maximum take-off weight of 300 g and can operate out to a maximum range of 20 km at ‘dash' speeds of 20 m/s.

The airframe can be equipped with various payloads including kinetic; EW; intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR); laser designator; and countermeasure systems. Company officials told Janes the solution should be viewed as a more cost-effective system for armed forces, compared with larger loitering munitions.

Company officials said DefendTex is developing concepts of operation that could see swarms of D-40s used to support wider intelligence-gathering and precision-strike operations, which could be used against adversary trench networks.

Such concepts could use swarms of D-40 loitering munitions carrying pre-programmed, airburst ammunition, guided onto targets from supporting airframes in overwatch, equipped with laser designators.

According to one company official, up to eight D-40s could be used to simultaneously or sequentially strike a target(s), guided by additional D-40s fitted with ISR and laser designator payloads in overwatch.

DefendTex also offers the larger D-81 solution, which can deploy up to 12 smaller D-40s as part of a “multimode engagement” plan, a company source added.

Ground solutions

On land, emerging UGV technologies are set to play a significant role in trench warfare, saving personnel who might otherwise be required to physically clear a trench.

At the MSPO conference in Kielce, Poland, on 5 September 2023, Australian company BIA5 said its UGV could be used to ‘handrail' a trench network, tasked with detecting, identifying, and, if necessary, engaging enemy forces.

A BIA5 rendering of how UGVs can be used to support trench warfare. (BIA5)

BIA5's managing director Shawn Tansley told Janes , “I believe the war [in Ukraine] has emphasised the strategic impact of soldiers on the ground swiftly adopting technology, contributing significantly to gaining and sustaining superiority over adversaries. Although this approach involved higher risks than the traditional adoption of new technology, it has proven successful.”

According to Tansley, “compact” UGVs weighing less than one tonne demonstrate a “notable advantage over larger platforms when it comes to trench warfare – similar to the proliferation of more cost-effective proliferation of FPV drones over the course of the conflict.

“These smaller UGVs offer ample capability to assist last-mile and dismounted forces, whether in logistical support, [ISTAR], or lethal functions. Platforms like our ‘Warfighter Modular UGV' sized appropriately can carry sufficient payload and firepower to compel the enemy to disclose their positions and capabilities, thereby reducing risks to friendly forces.

“The manoeuvrability of these smaller platforms in unstructured terrain, coupled with their capacity to carry 200–300 kg payloads, enables them to navigate obstacles designed to impede larger UGVs and manned platforms. As control systems, Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and AI integration advance, the cognitive load on soldiers operating unmanned platforms is expected to decrease,” Tansley noted.

He also pointed to the utility of flexible and well-integrated sensors and early warning systems. “While traditional early warning trip flares still have their place, they offer limited flexibility and feedback for contemporary capabilities,” Tansley said. “Whether enhancing night operations with night-vision goggles (NVGs) or improving situational awareness in urban settings where explosive ordnance is impractical, reimagining and upgrading some of these traditional sensors can maintain their original effect while introducing significant operational enhancements. There are simple-to-use sensors ready to make big differences.”

BIA5's Warfighter UGV comprises a modular and “agile” platform, according to Tansley. The UGV can be deployed from various platforms, including vehicles, fixed-wing aircraft, or rotary-wing assets, supporting section- and company-level operations. With a base weight of 440 kg and a payload capacity exceeding 250 kg, it could support trench warfare in various ways, he said.

“It is equipped for diverse tasks such as direct and indirect fire support, casualty evacuation, [ISTAR], and tethered drone deployment. Additional capabilities encompass Counter-Improvised Explosive Device (CIED) jamming; Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) measures; communications backhaul/relay; and route/road clearance, including Improvised Explosive Device (IED) detection and disposal,” Tansley said.

BIA5's Warfighter UGV has been purchased by the Australian Department of Defence. (BIA5)

Additional BIA5 solutions relating to trench warfare include the Tactical Initiated Lighting Solution (TILS) that can illuminate in the visible and infrared (IR) spectrums, and is compatible with NVGs, he said. “Safe for use in urban and field operations, from ambushing to perimeter and building security, TILS is integrated into a master controller across a mesh network, providing users with situational awareness and control over battlefield illumination and visibility.”

Remote weapon stations

Elsewhere, company officials at Norway's Kongsberg told Janes RWS technologies could also be employed to improve the lethality and survivability of units tasked with trench warfare.

Recent experiences from Ukraine, where uncrewed ground, maritime, and air vehicles have played an important role, suggest that Western countries need to design, develop, and establish novel concepts of operation for uncrewed vehicles, a company spokesperson told Janes.

“The same goes for the willingness to use unmanned systems in operations together with crewed platforms. In trench warfare specifically, we see the need for situational awareness and endurance, which uncrewed systems can provide. Aerial systems have the big advantage of being airborne and not [having] to cope with the challenge of ground terrain. At the same time, aerial systems enjoy the huge benefit of elevation and surprise,” the spokesperson said.

“Kongsberg is actively developing our RWS systems further to incorporate AI, additional effectors, and C-UASs, as examples. We are also developing complex information handling systems that can integrate both manned and unmanned systems in a network. Remote and safe firing of kinetic effectors over the air is key in further development,” the company spokesperson added.

A possible RWS suited to supporting trench warfare operations include Kongsberg's Protector RS4 – the smallest in the company's inventory of RWSs and therefore one of the most relevant to supporting UGV operations in terms of trench warfare.

Mounting small- through medium-calibre weapon systems including 5.56 mm and 7.62 mm, as well as anti-tank guided missiles, the RS4 has been integrated onboard UGVs including Milrem Robotics' THeMIS platform.

The RS4 uses a modular sensor suite including day and night sights and a laser rangefinder to support situation awareness and targeting via a network-based fire-control system. The RS4 can be employed as part of a manned-unmanned teaming concept by stand-off ground vehicle or dismounted personnel, Kongsberg officials added.

French and Estonian troops participate in a NATO trench warfare exercise. (NATO)

Finally, the spokesperson stressed the importance of C-UAS solutions to personnel operating in trench networks.

Myriad C-UASs have been deployed in Ukraine by Russian and Ukrainian forces. Examples include SkyWiper EDM4S solutions, an undisclosed number of which were delivered to the Ukraine armed forces from Lithuania towards the end of 2023. The handheld system weighs approximately 6.5 kg and can be used to disrupt radio frequency (RF) control of threats at ranges up to 5 km. The weapon system has a battery life of at least 60 minutes. Also being used by the Ukraine armed forces is the SkyWiper Omni solution that features a 360º RF jammer that has the capacity to disrupt targets at ranges as far as 500 m, according to company material.

Similarly, in October 2023 Dedrone told Janes that more than 200 Dedrone FieldKits, a simplified version of DedroneTactical C-UAS, are deployed in Ukraine with the Ukraine armed forces.

For its part, Russia is thought to have deployed its new Saniya C-UAS, from Russia's 3MX, mounted on a T-80BVM tank. The system was seen on a Russian 1st Army Corps T-80BVM tank in Ukraine in a video posted by the Russian Ministry of Defence on Telegram on 14 January. Saniya is to detect and suppress FPVs from ranges of up to 1.5 km and 1 km respectively.

As the RUSI report on lessons learned from Ukraine concluded, “Uncrewed aerial systems and counter-UAS are essential across all branches and at all echelons. Although critical to competitiveness by providing situational awareness, 90% of UASs employed are lost. The primary means of C-UAS is EW. Another critical tactical requirement is to be alerted to the presence of UASs.”

Comment

If any armed force in the world is suited to adopting these emerging concepts of operation regarding next-generation trench warfare, it is the Ukraine armed forces, which continues to employ emerging technologies that are “just good enough” to be deployed across the modern battlespace.

[위종민]

동력은 리튬이온일 텐데 배터리가 관통되면 바로 30분 이상 불타는 화염 덩어리가..

[백선호]

사람 3-4명 탄 탱크 대신 이것을 보내 참호를 점령할 수 있으면 확실히 남는 장사일 것 같네요.

[위종민]

전차가 돌파구를 못 여는 이유가 단가가 저렴한 드론들이 뚜껑을 따고 다녀서인데, 아무래도 UGV가 드론보다는 비싼 물건인지라 UGV가 게임 체인저로 기능할 지는 사실 저는 의문이 들긴 하네요. 드론 때문에 우크라이나 평원에서 진지전이 펼쳐질 줄은 정말 예상 밖입니다.

이런 양상을 타파하려면 현 시점에서 제공권 장악하고 거의 전 대역에 걸친 전파 사용권까지 확보해 적이 드론을 쓰지 못하게 하지 않는 것 외엔 가능한 방법이 없는 것 같습니다. 가 능한 연구개발 방향이라면 사통장비에 드론 패턴인식 학습시켜서 35mm 기관포에 붙여놓고 24/7 공중 경계하라고 하거나..

[ssn688]

자폭드론이 무선원격조종 없이 자율항법/공격능력을 갖추면 거부전술도 더 어려워지겠습니다. 드론이 정교해질수록 단가는 올라가겠지만 전차나 IFV급 화력을 갖춘 UGV보다는 여전히 싸겠죠. 아무리 봐도 방어전술이 공격전술을 압도하는 1차대전의 재림 시대네요.
PS 전술적으론 방어가 공격을 압도했다고 해도, 방어전략을 취하는 나라에겐 더 어려워지는 시대일 수도 있겠습니다. 공자는 개전 초기 시간과 장소를 정해서 우위를 달성하기 쉬우니, 큰 욕심 안 부리고 적당한 영토를 차지해서 굳히기 들어가면 방자는 탈환하기가 매우 힘들어지는...

[백선호]

FPV 드론으로 참호에 있는 적군을 잡는 것은 밖에서 돌아다니는 커다란 전차 잡는 것보다는 확실히 더 어렵겠죠?

[위종민]

공중에 노출된 병력들을 박격포탄 떨궈서 잡거나, 직접 충돌공격으로 잡는 동영상은 봤었는데 유개호만 되도 안에 뭐가 있는 지 안 보이니 공격하기가 껄끄러울 것 같습니다. 차라리 주변에 노출된 장갑차량이나 트럭들을 표적으로 할 것 같아요.