In a devastating blow to the Ukrainian army’s aviation force, three helicopters were destroyed near Pavlohrad by a Russian munition, possibly an Iskander ground-launched ballistic missile. The helicopters landed at a forward arming and refueling point (FARP), where they were refueling and rearming when they were targeted. This incident highlights the ongoing struggle of the Ukrainians to maintain adequate air defenses along the 600-mile front line of Russia’s wider war on Ukraine.
For the first two years of the war, the FARPs were relatively safe, but as Ukrainian air defenses became depleted and the Russian “kill chain” became faster, these refueling points became more vulnerable. Russian drones began ranging deeper into Ukrainian territory, targeting key assets such as radars, missile batteries, and helicopters at FARPs. The attack on the helicopters near Pavlohrad is the second such incident in two months, indicating a pressing need for the Ukrainians to improve their rearming and refueling procedures and bolster air defenses.
The loss of helicopters poses a significant challenge for the Ukrainian army, as experienced crew members are harder to replace than airframes. While the army has received donations of replacement helicopters from foreign allies, increasing their operational efficiency and protecting vulnerable FARPs will be crucial in preventing further losses. The Ukrainian army’s four helicopter brigades are not at immediate risk of running out of airframes, but continued attacks on FARPs could have devastating consequences for crew members and operational capabilities.
Experts have warned that the concept of super FARPs, which were commonly used in the past, may no longer be viable in the current threat environment. Brig. Gen. Clair Gill and Maj. Bridget Day emphasized the importance of adapting to evolving threats and changing tactics to ensure the survivability of helicopter operations. The recent attacks near Pavlohrad and Novopavlivka underscore the need for the Ukrainians to reassess their FARP operations and implement measures to enhance security and efficiency.
As the conflict in eastern Ukraine continues, the Ukrainians must prioritize the protection of their aviation assets and personnel. With the ongoing support of foreign allies and a focus on improving operational procedures and air defenses, the Ukrainian army can mitigate the risks posed by Russian attacks on their helicopters. The incidents near Pavlohrad serve as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by Ukrainian helicopter crews and the urgent need for enhanced security measures to safeguard their operations.
