The Battle for Chasiv Yar: A Detailed Update on the Northern Flank

In the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, the northern flank of Chasiv Yar has become a focal point of intense military activity. Over the past weeks, this area has witnessed significant developments, primarily characterized by Ukrainian forces successfully repelling Russian assaults and forcing a strategic shift in their approach.

The Stalemate and Strategic Pause

Initially, the situation on the northern flank was relatively stagnant, with minimal action reported from the Russian side. This period of inactivity, however, was not a sign of retreat or defeat but rather a brief operational pause. The Russian forces halted their assaults to redeploy and accumulate forces, preparing for a more strategic attack from different directions. This pause allowed them to plan coordinated assaults to the north from Bohdanivka and to the south from Ivanivske. Recent reports suggest that Russian sources claimed advances near Bohdanivka and Ivanivske. However, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) has not observed visual confirmation of these claimed advances. Positional engagements continued in southeastern Chasiv Yar near Novyi, indicating ongoing skirmishes and a potential buildup for future operations.

Deployment of the Kraken Special Operations Unit

The turning point came when Ukrainian forces deployed the elite Kraken special operations unit to the Kanal district of Chasiv Yar. This district had been the epicenter of Russian assault efforts. The deployment of Kraken, known for their expertise and effectiveness, marked a significant escalation in the defense of the town. Shortly after their arrival, Kraken fighters released a video showing the harsh conditions they and other troops faced in the Kanal district. The Kraken unit, formed by Azov Brigade veterans, has become one of Ukraine’s best-known units for their resilience and tactical prowess. They have been actively involved in replenishing frontline troops under constant enemy shelling, as shown in a video posted by the Kraken regiment. The video highlights the unit’s maneuvering in difficult conditions under constant enemy artillery fire, showcasing their responsibility for personnel and fire support for the units in Chasiv Yar. The Kraken unit’s actions reflect the extraordinary courage and professionalism of Ukrainian defenders, who continue to hold their positions despite the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict.

Ukrainian Countermeasures

Ukrainian forces have demonstrated resilience and tactical innovation in the face of adversity. They have effectively utilized their artillery and drone operators to provide essential fire support, despite the intense pressure from Russian forces. The Forty-Third Artillery Brigade has been particularly instrumental, releasing footage that showcases their counter-battery work using German-made Panzerhaubitze 2000 howitzers against Russian artillery pieces. This includes targeting the D-20 and D-30 howitzers, as well as the scarce heavy mortar “Tylupan.” A notable achievement was the destruction of a TOS-1 thermobaric system, which is considered a highly dangerous and rare Russian artillery system. The Ukrainian forces have also adapted to Russian artillery tactics by employing electronic warfare to jam Russian weapons, making them a high-priority target for the Russian army. This invisible battle of technologies has been crucial in countering the Russian offensive and maintaining Ukrainian defenses.

Destruction and Repair of Bridges

Russian forces have attempted to weaken Ukrainian defenses by targeting infrastructure critical to supply lines. They managed to destroy bridges over the canal in Chasiv Yar, with two significant crossings being hit — one within the town and another to the north. Despite these setbacks, Ukrainian engineers demonstrated remarkable efficiency by swiftly repairing the damaged bridges. Moreover, the construction of numerous makeshift bridges for infantry has ensured that ground troops can continue to reinforce units in the eastern Kanal district without substantial delays. This rapid response and adaptability highlight the Ukrainian military’s commitment to maintaining operational continuity and thwarting Russian attempts to disrupt their logistics. Additionally, rumors of a strategic bridge demolition near Chasiv Yar were refuted, with a military spokesperson clarifying that the bridge was being repaired when it was hit by Russian drones. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges and complexities of the conflict in the region.

The Ukrainian strategy of quick adaptation and repair, coupled with the use of advanced artillery and electronic warfare, has been pivotal in maintaining their defensive positions and countering the Russian offensive. The ability to swiftly recover from infrastructure attacks and the innovative use of technology in warfare are testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the Ukrainian forces.

The Russian Assault and Ukrainian Defense

Following the destruction of the bridges, the Russians launched a major assault on the Kanal district, hoping to break through and capture the high-rise area. This assault involved a group of six BMD infantry fighting vehicles. However, Kraken’s drone operators quickly detected the movement of these vehicles and directed artillery fire from M777 howitzers, successfully knocking out two BMDs before they reached the town.

With only four BMDs making it to the town, the dismounted infantry faced fierce resistance. Kraken’s artillery detachment managed to destroy another BMD entirely, killing all inside. A subsequent strike disabled a fourth BMD, leading its crew to abandon it. Only two BMDs managed to retreat, but one was destroyed by another accurate artillery shot, leaving just one BMD to return to the Russian lines. The few infantrymen who managed to dismount and take positions in the high-rise buildings were swiftly targeted and neutralized by Kraken forces.

The Kraken Regiment, a Ukrainian military volunteer unit, has been a significant force in the conflict, engaging in reconnaissance, sabotage, and direct combat. Their actions in the Kanal district are consistent with their established tactics of utilizing drones for intelligence and coordinating precise artillery strikes. The regiment, estimated to have grown to 1,800 members by August 2022, has been equipped with modern Western equipment, including Polish RGP-40 grenade launchers and Czech CZ-806 BREN-2 rifles, enhancing their combat effectiveness.

Conclusion

The battle for Chasiv Yar’s northern flank is a testament to the resilience and tactical prowess of Ukrainian forces, particularly the elite Kraken unit. Despite facing significant challenges, they have effectively repelled Russian assaults and maintained control over the town. The strategic use of artillery, drones, and rapid response to infrastructural damage has proven crucial in this ongoing conflict. As the situation evolves, the determination and adaptability of the Ukrainian forces will continue to play a vital role in defending Chasiv Yar and the surrounding areas.

The ongoing Battle of Chasiv Yar has been marked by intense fighting and strategic maneuvers. Since April 2024, Ukrainian forces, including the 5th Assault Brigade, have been stationed near Chasiv Yar, defending against Russian advances. The city, which has been a frontline location since the fall of its neighbor Bakhmut in May 2023, has seen Ukrainian forces stabilize the front and push back Russian forces during their 2023 counteroffensive. The Kraken Regiment’s role in these efforts has been pivotal, showcasing their ability to adapt to changing battlefield conditions and leverage their specialized training and equipment to counter Russian tactics.

The defense of Chasiv Yar is not just a military engagement but also a symbol of Ukrainian defiance and the international support that has bolstered Ukraine’s capabilities. The outcome of this battle will likely have significant implications for the broader conflict in Eastern Ukraine.