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Russian forces have been seen using horse and camel units on the Ukrainian battlefield. A picture shows Russian soldiers attaching Starlink satellite communication antennas, terminals, additional batteries, and other gear to horse saddles.

As reported by The Telegraph on the 8th, there has been a rise in Russian military forces utilizing cavalry as a temporary strategy on the eastern front in Ukraine.

An independent Russian media platform called ‘Astra’ shared a video on its Telegram channel, believed to have been recorded using a mobile phone camera. The footage displays two metal rods connected to a horse saddle, with a Starlink device positioned on top. A man, thought to be a soldier, speaks in Russian, explaining that he set up the Starlink device, saying, “We welded this part,” and then mentions, “Everything functions perfectly.”

This deployment of Starlink terminals is believed to enable Russian forces to use drones in regions with limited communication systems, offering real-time awareness and effective remote control through internet access. Starlink, a satellite-based internet service managed by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, provides connectivity in areas lacking mobile towers or traditional network infrastructure, as long as there is a terminal and a power supply. This makes it especially valuable in remote, disaster-affected, or conflict zones.

Previously, The Telegraph mentioned in October of last year that there were indications the ‘Storm’ unit within the 9th Brigade of Russia’s 51st Army was getting ready to send a mounted attack team into the Donetsk area. The footage released then depicted Russian soldiers practicing in pairs, riding on horses.

Reports have indicated that Russian troops have previously utilized donkeys, horses, and camels to move supplies and gear in regions where standard vehicles are not practical. In February of the previous year, an image was shared depicting a Russian soldier on a camel. Bactrian camels, recognized for their ability to withstand extreme climates and carry significant weights, have historically been employed in Central Asia and other areas. Additionally, a video surfaced showing Ukrainian soldiers transporting Bactrian camels that had been used by Russian forces for logistical purposes.

In December last year, a video shared by Ukraine’s 92nd Brigade showed Ukrainian drones chasing Russian cavalry moving through fields. At that time, the 92nd Brigade mentioned, “The Russian occupying forces have lost so much equipment due to ‘meat grinder’-style attacks that they have no alternative but to travel by horse.” The term ‘meat grinder’ attack describes Russian forces sending in troops despite significant losses.

The Telegraph reported, “Although the Ukraine conflict is marked by swift technological developments like drones, Russian troops have also utilized traditional tactics,” stating, “Along with cavalry, there are soldiers using motorcycles and mountain bikes on the front lines.”