Ukrainian troops are suffering casualties even when moving within their own trench systems due to persistent drone surveillance and attacks, according to a Western commander overseeing a NATO-led training program. Brigadier Atle Molde, commander of Task Force Legio, stated that Ukrainian forces experience significant losses during routine rotations in and out of trench networks, which have remained largely static for an extended period.
The danger stems from drones operating in swarms near the front lines, creating what Ukrainian commanders describe as a "kill zone" where any movement risks detection and attack. A Ukrainian official previously told reporters that reaching front-line positions can take days, making troop rotations, resupply, and repositioning among the most hazardous tasks for soldiers.
To mitigate these risks, Western forces have established Camp Jomsborg, a purpose-built training facility in eastern Poland, where Ukrainian soldiers receive specialized instruction on trench warfare and safe movement under drone threat. The training emphasizes suppressive fire tactics to protect troops during rotations, with instructors noting that many Ukrainian trainees already possess high combat experience and have developed effective countermeasures.
Training focuses on survival
The program prioritizes "saving lives", according to Molde, who highlighted that the curriculum includes drills for infiltrating and exfiltrating trench systems while minimizing exposure to drone attacks. Norwegian Army instructor Jørgen, who requested anonymity by first name only, reported that the training incorporates real-time coordination with supporting fire to suppress enemy positions, allowing safer movement for Ukrainian troops.
Ukrainian commanders have described these rotations as the most vulnerable moments in front-line operations, with some soldiers remaining in defensive positions for extended periods to avoid the risks of movement. The prolonged static front lines have intensified the threat, as drones provide continuous surveillance and targeting capabilities for both sides.
Western trainers acknowledge that Ukrainian soldiers bring practical combat experience to the training, with some tactics already proven effective in the field. The program aims to refine these methods while introducing standardized NATO approaches to trench warfare under modern drone warfare conditions.