Analysis of Russian Losses Based on the May 9 Parade in Moscow: Insights from British Intelligence

Britain’s intelligence has delved into the influence that the losses suffered by the Russian army in the war against Ukraine had on the May 9 parade in Moscow.

According to a reconnaissance overview from the British Ministry of Defence dated May 10, the department notes that parades for Russia’s “Victory Day” on May 9 were cancelled in 24 cities, mostly in border regions with Ukraine, presumably due to low security levels. This compares to 21 cancelled parades in 2023.

“While the flyover of aircraft over Moscow was restored, involving nine SU-30SM and MiG-29 fighter jets, as well as six SU-25 attack aircraft, the parade was scaled down: it showcased less modern military equipment compared to pre-war parades,” the overview states.

The reconnaissance indicates that out of 30 units in the parade, over two-thirds were represented by military academies, youth, and veteran organisations. Additionally, units from internal security and emergency services were present.

The Ministry of Defence reports that a total of 9,000 cadets, veterans, and military personnel participated in the parade, compared to 8,000 in 2023, but fewer than the 11,000 in the 2021 parade – before the start of the large-scale war in Ukraine.

Analysts note that although 61 military vehicles were presented at the parade, there was no heavy armored or tracked military vehicles.

However, the only combat tank seen at the event was a ceremonial T-34 tank from the Second World War era, which traditionally leads the parade.

Putin threatens the West during May 9 Parade

This contrasts with the Moscow parade of 2020, which featured 20 main battle tanks, according to intelligence.

“Considering the significant losses of Russian personnel and equipment due to the war in Ukraine, Russia did not have the opportunity to use parades to demonstrate military strength,” the overview concludes.

The analysis underscores the tangible repercussions of the ongoing war in Ukraine on Russia’s ability to showcase its military prowess during ceremonial events like the May 9 parade.

As the war continues to exact a toll on Russian forces, it not only diminishes their capacity for military display but also underscores the broader implications of their engagement in the conflict.

Read also:

Institute for the Study of War Reveals Russia Running Low on Replacement Tanks & AFVs

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