Air Assault Forces
Elite rapid-reaction light infantry, used as a mobile "fire brigade".
Broad area of activity
Committed across the front since 2022, most prominently in the Kharkiv counteroffensive and in defensive battles at critical points.
Notable history
Ukraine's separate air-assault arm (DShV), expanded significantly after 2014. Its brigades have served as the army's mobile reserve — moved from crisis to crisis rather than held for airborne operations, which the air-defence environment has made impractical for both sides. Spearheaded elements of the 2022 Kharkiv counteroffensive.
Strengths
Higher selection and training standards than line infantry; strong unit identity; experience as the force of last resort at critical moments.
Limitations
Persistent use as regular infantry erodes its specialised role; light equipment against a heavily fortified, artillery-dense front.