A short video released by the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense on Telegram and Twitter follows two Ukrainian MANPAD operators working together to keep the skies over Bakhmut contested from the ground.

I shouldn't have to tell you guys that there is a clear bias in this video. It was released by the Ukrainian defense ministry, who are currently actively engaged in a war with Russian forces. The reason we're posting this is because I personally believe it does a good job of humanizing the troops on the deck in Bakhmut.

It's worth noting that the Ukrainian troops are seen utilizing an FIM-92 Stinger missile system. Without these guys running amok throughout Bakhmut, Russian air power could potentially find an opening to gain superiority in the airspace in this specific region. Even a momentary lapse in contest of the airspace could lead to serious losses on the Ukrainian fronts in Bakhmut, so their mission is absolutely paramount to Ukrainian success and longevity in the region.

If there are Russian equivalents to this video with English subtitles, we'd happily post them. I just haven't seen any published that weren't absolutely ludicrous. I believe humanizing the men on the ground is one of our most important objectives here at Funker530. It's important to remember that every man or woman killed in this conflict is a life erased forever by politicians who will never know them.

About the Author

Josh Brooks

Josh is an American writer and former USMC machine gunner with eight years of experience in ground combat arms throughout the GWOT. He is currently based in Texas and specializes in combat footage analysis and digital marketing.Follow Josh at OfficialJoshBrooks.com