Deceptive defense: Russian infantry stormed positions wearing anti-thermal ponchos

The Russian military tested a new tactic of assault operations in the area of responsibility of the 60th Mechanized Brigade, based on the use of small infantry groups in anti-thermal imaging ponchos.

Footage of the elimination of enemy infantry was released by the 60th Mechanized Brigade’s press service.

The Russian military attempted to advance on the Ukrainian military’s positions by sending attack aircraft equipped with anti-thermal imaging systems across open terrain. However, having overestimated their capabilities, they failed and suffered losses from drone strikes.

The brigade’s soldiers did not provide additional details, but from the number of thermal imaging UAVs used, it can be concluded that the enemy was counting on a surprise attack at dawn, when thermal imaging and daylight drones are “changing” and control over the battlefield is minimal.

The special ponchos partially compensated for the thermal contrast of the infantrymen against the ground, but did not completely conceal them. At medium and close distances in the lenses of thermal imaging cameras, their visibility remained quite clear, and their movements completely eliminated the camouflage.

The tactics of the invaders are confirmed by the soldiers of the 115th Mechanized Brigade, who are holding defense nearby in the Serebryansky Forest. At the beginning of the year, the battalion’s deputy commander, call sign Liova, described the peculiarities of the Russian military’s tactics in this area.

“They attack in the morning, from about 4 am to 7 am. This is the most difficult time of day for a soldier on duty and the time when the sun is rising,” Liova shared. “Now they have started using anti-thermal imaging cloaks, and it is very difficult to see them. They move in groups of 2-3 fighters.”

When moving, enemy attack aircraft are guided by the sound of the drones flying, which is very clearly audible at night. When they approach, they lie down, waiting for the drone to fly further. However, they often begin to “fuss”, giving away their presence.

He noted that under such conditions, the key role is played by the saturation of units with night vision devices, as well as thermal imaging drones and weapon sights. In night battles, silencers and laser target designators have proven to be useful, helping to minimize the disguise of their own positions and highlight targets.

In early 2024, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense announced the development of its own version of “anti-thermal imaging” equipment for the military, which would mask their infrared radiation and hide them from enemy thermal imagers.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian troops are actively receiving developments from private manufacturers. For example, last month, soldiers of the 9th Sich Riflemen border guard detachment were equipped with such equipment.

The cloaks are designed specifically for combat operations, as they do not hinder movement and allow running, crawling, and other mechanical movements.

“In addition to the raincoat, the kit includes modular 3D camouflage, heat-reflective gloves, and a storage bag. They have low thermal conductivity, anti-infrared protection, flexibility, resistance to pressure, moisture, temperature, mechanical damage, and are hypoallergenic. They can be used at high and low temperatures,” the statement reads.