U.S. Boosts Ukraine’s 47th Brigade with 300 M-2 Bradleys

After enduring 15 months of relentless combat, Ukraine’s elite 47th Mechanized Brigade is finally getting a reprieve, thanks to a significant infusion of new equipment from the United States. This relief comes as the brigade, known for its resilience and combat effectiveness, is given a crucial chance to rest and reset.

The 47th Mechanized Brigade was thrust into the spotlight in June 2023 when Ukrainian forces launched a highly anticipated and ultimately controversial southern counteroffensive. At the forefront of this operation, the brigade faced immense challenges as it advanced through dense Russian minefields and fortifications. Equipped with a mix of ex-Finnish Leopard 2R breaching vehicles, ex-European Leopard 2A6 tanks, and ex-American M-2 infantry fighting vehicles, the brigade endured heavy losses. Over the months of intense fighting, it suffered the destruction of nearly all its Leopard 2Rs, several Leopard 2A6s, and dozens of M-2s, alongside substantial casualties among its 2,000-strong troops.

Despite the grueling nature of the counteroffensive, the 47th Mechanized Brigade did not receive a break. The brigade continued its arduous campaign, operating at the front lines without respite. It wasn’t until early September that the unit was able to withdraw from the intense combat zone in Donetsk Oblast and relocate to the relatively safer area of Pavlohrad, situated 60 miles west of Pokrovsk, the epicenter of the Russian offensive in Donetsk.

The brigade’s relocation to Pavlohrad marks a pivotal moment. Here, it is engaging in essential activities such as inducting new personnel, repairing damaged equipment, and—most importantly—preparing to receive a fresh supply of M-2 Bradley Fighting Vehicles from the United States. This influx of equipment comes as part of a recently announced $250 million military aid package from Washington, which includes an unspecified number of these highly valued tracked vehicles.

The M-2 Bradley, a 33-ton vehicle designed to transport up to 10 personnel and equipped with a 25-millimeter autocannon and TOW anti-tank missiles, has proven to be a critical asset for Ukrainian forces. The latest aid package is expected to include dozens of these vehicles, building on previous shipments that totaled around 300 Bradleys. The United States has ample surplus of these vehicles, with thousands in storage, making the provision of additional units feasible.

The 47th Mechanized Brigade’s need for new vehicles is pressing. Following the losses of its Leopard 2A6 tanks and Leopard 2R breaching vehicles, the brigade had traded its remaining tanks for M-1 Abrams tanks and Assault Breachers from the U.S. However, the persistent need for Bradleys underscores their importance in the brigade’s operations. The M-2 Bradley’s combination of mobility, protection, and firepower has made it a favorite among Ukrainian forces, often described as working “like a clock” by experienced commanders.

The brigade’s reliance on the M-2 Bradley highlights its dual nature as both a boon and a burden. The 47th Mechanized Brigade, currently the only Ukrainian unit confirmed to operate these vehicles, is structured to have approximately 100 Bradleys across three battalions. This specialized equipment has been a significant factor in the brigade’s continued deployment. When Russian forces launched a major offensive along the Avdiivka-Pokrovsk axis in October, the brigade was urgently reassigned from southern Ukraine to bolster defenses in the east.

Despite efforts to stabilize the front lines, the situation deteriorated, leading to the fall of Avdiivka and a retreat under the cover of M-2s. The brigade’s involvement in this and subsequent battles around Ocheretyne saw it suffer additional losses, including the depletion of its Assault Breachers and M-2s. Even with dedicated repair teams working to keep the Bradleys battle-ready, the brigade was struggling with a dwindling number of operational vehicles.

As the 47th Mechanized Brigade settles into its long-overdue period of rest, the arrival of new M-2s is expected to significantly bolster its operational capacity. The brigade’s ability to recover and prepare for future engagements will be closely watched, given the ongoing Russian advances and the potential for renewed conflict. The continued support from international allies, particularly the U.S., remains a crucial factor in the brigade’s readiness and effectiveness.

The exact duration of the brigade’s rest period remains uncertain, as the strategic situation in the region evolves. However, the provision of additional M-2 Bradleys represents a critical reinforcement, allowing the 47th Mechanized Brigade to maintain its status as one of Ukraine’s most formidable fighting units. As the Russian offensive progresses, the brigade’s future deployments will likely play a key role in shaping the outcome of ongoing and future engagements on the battlefield.