Engineering Lessons from the Russo-Ukrainian War

This technical report outlines critical engineering lessons derived from the Russo-Ukrainian War, emphasizing the need for the U.S. Army to adapt its training and resources in light of large-scale combat operations (LSCO). The document discusses the shift in focus from counter-terrorism to preparing for potential conflicts with peer adversaries, as highlighted by the ongoing war in Ukraine. It identifies three key lessons for engineers: the necessity of dispersal and overhead cover for increased survivability, the importance of enhancing the Army's capacity to contend with obstacles, and the urgent requirement for bridging resources. The report details the challenges posed by Russian defensive strategies, including complex obstacle belts and the significant destruction of infrastructure, which could impede U.S. operations in future conflicts. Furthermore, it stresses the importance of real-time learning from current military engagements to ensure preparedness for potential large-scale hostilities.