Ukraine Expands Military Forces with New Army Corps (Video)

Ukraine has upgraded the Third Separate Assault Brigade of the Armed Forces into a full-scale army corps. The announcement was made by Andriy Biletsky, the brigade’s current commander, who highlighted the unit’s evolution over the past three years. The transformation reflects the adoption of modern technology, improved training methods, and a strong recruitment system, making it one of Ukraine’s most capable military formations.

Biletsky stated that the decision was taken to expand the unit’s scope and impact on the battlefield. He emphasised that the corps aims to change the course of the war in Ukraine’s favour, adopting the principle “Si vis pacem, para bellum” – meaning “If you want peace, prepare for war.” The upgraded unit will focus on three main pillars: advanced combat training, a professional non-commissioned officer corps, and enhanced leadership, planning, and technology.

This restructuring is part of a broader effort by the Ukrainian Armed Forces to introduce larger military formations for improved coordination. Army corps are permanent military units consisting of multiple brigades, designed to manage operations in specific combat zones. Their primary function is to ensure better coordination between different military groups and provide resources where needed, especially during large-scale offensive or defensive operations.

In military structures worldwide, an army corps typically includes between two and five brigades, with personnel numbers ranging from 10,000 to 50,000 or more, depending on strategic objectives. The formation of such units allows the Ukrainian command to deploy resources more effectively and adjust frontline strategies based on changing battlefield conditions.

The expansion of Ukraine’s military structure follows the ongoing development of operational tactical groups (OTGs) on the front lines. Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi, has supported the shift towards a more structured and strategic approach to warfare, ensuring that Ukraine’s forces are prepared for prolonged and large-scale engagements. The move is expected to strengthen Ukraine’s ability to conduct complex military operations, reinforcing its defences against Russian aggression.