The conflict in Ukraine has been ongoing for almost 6 years, leaving a significant imprint on the history of the region. In the face of this ongoing conflict, a wide range of weapons have been developed to remain ahead of the game and gain a tactical advantage. This article outlines six of the most defining and widespread weapons deployed in the conflict, from small arms to large-scale armor.
AK-74
The most iconic and widespread weapon ever used in the conflict is the AK-74. It is a Soviet-era 5.45x39mm assault rifle, the successor to the well-known AK-47. It is a reliable but lightweight weapon that was used by both pro-Russian forces and the Ukrainian military, making it the signature weapon of the war. In addition to its effectiveness, its legality and availability, made it one of most preferred weapons of the warring sides.
RPG-7
The RPG-7, a Russian-made anti-tank grenade launcher, was and continues to be an important weapon in the Ukrainian conflict. This weapon is highly effective at taking out tanks and other heavily armored vehicles and is legal and widely available on the open market. RPGs are frequently seen in news footage of civil unrest in the region, such as the 2014 Maidan protests in Kiev.
Makarov
The Makarov pistol is another highly recognizable small arm used in the war. This Soviet-made 9x18mm pistol was issued to Ukrainian servicemen, police officers, and Revolutionary pro-Russian forces alike, making it a common symbol of the conflict. Unsurprisingly, it is also popular on the black market due to its reliability and availability.
T-72
The T-72 is a Russian-made main battle tank, first developed in the 1970s and widely used by both sides in the conflict. It is an effective and heavily armored tank that is equipped with a 125mm main gun, advanced laser and thermal sights, and the ability to fire anti-tank missiles. The tank is a favorite of the pro-Russian forces, who have utilized it extensively in the conflict.
Mi-24
The Mi-24 is a Russian-made assault helicopter, renowned for its survivability, versatility, and effectiveness. It is equipped with advanced avionics, state-of-the-art armaments, and armor that makes it highly lethal and resilient in combat. This aircraft has seen extensive action in the conflict, most notably during the 2014 Battle of Ilovaisk, when it was used to bombard Ukrainian troops.
BM-21
The BM-21 is a multiple rocket launcher developed by the Soviet Union, used by both pro-Russian forces and the Ukrainian military. The BM-21 fires 122mm rockets in quick succession, making it a highly effective and terrifying weapon. The BM-21 has been used extensively in the conflict, most notably during the 2014 Battle of Debaltseve.
The war in Ukraine has seen an extensive array of weapons used to varying degrees. From small arms such as the AK-74 and Makarov to large-scale armor such as the T-72 and Mi-24, these weapons have proven to be effective on the battlefield and have become symbols of the conflict in Ukraine. The weapons listed here are just the tip of the iceberg, as many more have been used in the conflict and continue to shape the outcome of the conflict.
