Chapter 1: Remote Mining Tactics in Ukraine

In the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Russian forces have employed rocket-launched munitions designed to create minefields across agricultural areas. This tactic aims not at military dominance but at crippling the economic capabilities of local farmers by restricting their access to farmland.

The infamous BM-13 Katyusha multiple rocket launcher is a notable example of this artillery. Ironically, this weapon is memorialized in Ukraine, representing a grim legacy. The US reportedly utilized area denial weapons during its operations in Afghanistan, targeting poppy fields rather than food crops.

Recently, I came across footage on Telegram showcasing a Russian system actively laying mines to obstruct agricultural growth. The history of this type of weapon traces back to the era of Stalin, with some attributing the design concept to Leonardo da Vinci in the 15th century.

The Katyusha, introduced by the Soviet Union during World War II, represents a significant leap in rocket artillery. Unlike traditional artillery, multiple rocket launchers deliver a higher volume of explosives over a designated area, albeit with less precision and longer reload times. Although they are more vulnerable than conventional artillery guns, they are inexpensive, easy to manufacture, and can be mounted on various vehicle chassis. The mobility of Katyushas, often mounted on standard trucks, allows them to strike swiftly and relocate before enemy counterfire can be effectively directed against them.

German soldiers nicknamed it "Stalin's Organ" due to the distinct sound it produced when launching rockets.

Section 1.1: The Evolution of Area Denial Systems

The evolution of these weapons is clear, leading us to the Uragan 9K57.

The Uragan, translating to "hurricane" in Russian, represents an advancement in area denial tactics. First deployed in 1987, the Uragan 9K57 fires 220 mm rockets and was specifically designed for laying anti-tank and anti-personnel mines. It belongs to the Soviet lineage of aerial mining weapons, which also encompasses the Katyusha and Grad systems. These launchers are intended to create extensive minefields, rendering areas impassable for adversary vehicles.

Typically, Uragans are equipped with 72 220 mm rockets, though they can also launch 36 larger 400 mm rockets. These munitions can be deployed individually or in rapid volleys of up to 16 at a time, achieving a maximum range of 20 kilometers for 220 mm rockets and 40 kilometers for 400 mm variants. Notably, they can be reloaded in as little as 30 seconds, enhancing their battlefield effectiveness.

Chapter 2: The Latest in Mine-laying Technology

The newest addition to this arsenal is the ISDM Zemledeliye 8X8, a remotely operated minelayer system that was first unveiled in August 2021.

This advanced system is reportedly in use in Ukraine, as confirmed by the Armed Forces of Ukraine:

The ISDM Zemledeliye is built on a KamAZ 6560 8×8 truck chassis, featuring a 50-barrel multiple launch rocket system at the rear. Each 122 mm rocket can be programmed for ranges between 5 to 15 kilometers.

Designed for ease of use, this remote-controlled vehicle minimizes the operator's role, which is crucial for the Russian conscript army. In automated mode, it calculates mission parameters and can set explosives, including self-destruction timings.

An electronic grid allows for precise mapping of mine locations, which is communicated to command to ensure awareness of minefield placements. This system operates similarly to a mine dispenser, contrasting with aircraft that deliver cluster bombs, particularly as Russian aircraft face significant threat from enemy fire.

Remote mine laying offers numerous advantages, enabling rapid deployment in challenging terrains. Cartridges can be replaced in under a minute, assuming logistics function effectively. The term 'zemledeliye' translates to 'agriculture' in English, poignantly underscoring the strategic intent behind these operations.

Starvation Strategy: The Broader Implications

The conflict has seen the systematic extraction of Ukrainian grain from occupied territories, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

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