The “Starve, Stretch, and Strike” Strategy: Understanding Ukraine’s Tactic Against Russian Invasion

The Ukrainian conflict with Russia has been a subject of international concern and scrutiny. Many experts, policymakers, and onlookers have analyzed the situation, trying to fathom the evolving strategies each side is employing. One such strategy coming out of the Ukrainian theater is the “Starve, Stretch, and Strike” tactic. In this blog post, we’ll delve into what this tactic involves, its underpinning principles, and its advantages and drawbacks.

What is “Starve, Stretch, and Strike”?

At its core, the “Starve, Stretch, and Strike” strategy aims to inflict material and psychological damage on Russian forces, while minimizing direct confrontations. It is essentially a way to incapacitate the enemy through attrition and exploitation of weaknesses. The strategy was articulated by the UK’s Chief of the Defense Staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, and is based on three principles:

Starve

The first principle aims to disrupt Russian logistics and operational capability. Ukrainian forces use long-range missiles and drones to target crucial Russian installations such as command centers, fuel depots, ammunition supplies, and transport hubs. By doing so, they effectively “starve” Russian forces of the essential resources they need to maintain an offensive stance.

Stretch

The second principle involves a multi-faceted approach to the long front line, which stretches nearly 1,000 kilometers. Ukrainian forces engage in various probing and feinting tactics to draw Russian forces and resources into multiple directions. This ‘stretching’ compels the Russians to spread their troops thinly, thereby creating potential weak spots for Ukrainian forces to exploit.

Strike

The third principle involves targeted and quick strikes using small groups of mobile infantry. These units intentionally forgo the use of heavy artillery and vehicles, making them less susceptible to Russian air power and artillery. Relying on the elements of speed, stealth, and surprise, these small units aim to achieve localized victories, capture enemy territory, and damage Russian morale.

Adapting to the Environment

What makes this strategy particularly fascinating is its adaptability to winter conditions. Winters in Ukraine can be severe, rendering large-scale movements and traditional warfare methods highly impractical. Ukrainian forces use the weather conditions to their advantage, focusing on mobility without the need for vehicles.

Benefits and Risks

The “Starve, Stretch, and Strike” strategy has garnered praise for its innovative approach to asymmetrical warfare. It essentially turns the tables on a better-equipped adversary by attacking its weak spots: supply lines, stretched forces, and morale.

However, the strategy is not without its risks and challenges:

Morale and Cohesion: Ukrainian forces must maintain high morale and cohesion to execute this strategy effectively. Any lapse could severely hamper its success.

Local Support: Winning the hearts and minds of the local population is essential. Without local support, it would be challenging to carry out clandestine movements and gather intelligence.

Escalation: The approach has the potential to escalate the conflict into a broader war, involving other regional and international players.

Conclusion

The “Starve, Stretch, and Strike” tactic is an innovative approach that leverages Ukraine’s knowledge of its territory and understanding of its adversary’s weaknesses. While laden with risks, the strategy showcases how a seemingly less equipped force can challenge a better-resourced enemy. It embodies the proverbial David vs. Goliath battle in modern warfare, and its long-term success may very well depend on Ukraine’s ability to maintain the initiative, adapt, and persevere against all odds.