In Russia, military airports are using fake planes painted on the tarmac to deceive Ukrainian drones. Satellite images have become crucial in providing a clear picture of ground activities during complex war scenarios. However, these images can be misleading due to the ability to alter reality through painting or concealing.
The use of vertical camouflage techniques at Russian military bases is increasing, as seen in satellite images from Yeysk and Engels-2 airports. These images show outlines of aircraft resembling Sukhoi fighter jets and Tu-95 bombers on the tarmac. It is unclear whether these jets were actually hit by Ukrainian drones or if it was just part of the painted design.
Examples of this deception, known as “Maskirovka” in Russian military doctrine, have been used for decades to mislead enemies. This term encompasses various practices aimed at concealing intentions, capabilities, or positions. While painting fake planes on runways may not be foolproof, it is still considered a strategic deception tactic.
Both Russia and Ukraine employ deceptive tactics in warfare, such as using dummy targets and inflatable weapons to mislead the enemy. Historically, strategic deception has been used in major military operations like Operation Fortitude during World War II. These tactics aim to confuse and mislead the enemy about the location and strength of forces.
Despite advancements in targeting systems, fake planes continue to be used as a cost-effective deception method by both sides in the conflict. They employ creative strategies to outsmart each other and gain an advantage in ongoing operations.
In conclusion, strategic deception tactics are widely used by both Russia and Ukraine in their ongoing conflict with Ukraine. While satellite imagery has become essential for monitoring ground activities during complex war scenarios, it can still be misleading due to modifications made on the ground through covering up or painting.
As such, it is important for military commanders to understand that these tactics can be easily countered if they are aware of them and have proper intelligence gathering methods in place that can detect such modifications made on the ground.
