Ukraine shifts fortification strategy in response to Russia's new tactics, says defense chief

“Fortification is not only concrete and trenches, but also an adaptive engineering system that takes into account the enemy's tactics and always works for one thing: the protection of our soldiers. We monitor the process daily and strengthen those areas where it is needed most,” he told reporters.

Earlier, the fortifications were built on the principle of battalion defense areas and company strongholds with a large length of communication lines (2-5 km). But the enemy's tactics have changed: now they do not operate in classic battalions and companies, mostly using small infantry formations supported by unmanned systems in assault operations.

In response to the change in enemy offensive tactics, a new model was introduced: smaller strongholds with 60-70 meters of communication lines, with mandatory anti-drone cover, which are more difficult to detect and effectively perform defense, deterrence, and firepower tasks, including against FPV drones.

Fortifications do not always have to be visible

Unlike traditional fortifications, modern fortifications are camouflaged in the terrain and are specially reduced in size so as not to disguise positions and maintain effectiveness on the battlefield, Umerov said.

Fortifications are being adapted to the priorities in specific directions. For example, on the Sumy axis, defensive lines are being reinforced in the most threatening areas. Additional engineering equipment for the defensive lines is being deployed there according to the needs of the command.

Everything is going according to plan

Umerov stated that in 2024, in the directions where construction was carried out by military units, 96% to 99.9% of the assigned tasks were completed. As of mid-2025, over 50% of the work planned for this year has already been completed.

The Minister of Defense receives daily briefings from commanders on the situation at the front, including the condition of the fortification equipment of the defensive lines. He received confirmation from the head of the Administration of the State Transport Special Service, Lieutenant General Oleksandr Yakovets, that all scheduled tasks are being carried out on time.

Fortification expenditures

Last year, 3,000 defensive points were equipped both in threatening directions and in areas where active hostilities are not currently taking place. The state allocated 46.2 billion hryvnias, which were directed to military administrations and the Recovery Agency.

At the beginning of 2025, these fortifications were transferred under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Defense.

The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi, stated that 21 regional military administrations and contracting organizations are involved in the construction of military engineering and fortification structures.