Ukraine’s Armed Forces to Complete Shift to Corps Structure by Year-End — Syrsky

The Armed Forces of Ukraine will complete the main phase of transitioning to a corps-based organizational structure by the end of 2025, Commander-in-Chief General Oleksandr Syrsky stated.

Speaking to journalists during a visit to frontline units in the Sumy region, Syrsky said the shift aims to improve operational efficiency and ease the burden on command structures.

“Last year, we started reorganizing the Armed Forces under combat conditions and initiated the formation of army corps,” he said. “The goal is to improve the effectiveness of our operations and reduce the workload on command elements.”

Under the reform, the number of subordinate units reporting directly to command bodies will be reduced. Operational-strategic groupings (OSUV) will remain, but operational-tactical groupings (OTU) and tactical groups will be phased out in favor of permanent army corps.

Syrsky noted that the first wave of corps-level commands, along with their support units, has completed combat coordination, been assigned areas of responsibility, and received assigned brigades.

One example of the change is the replacement of the Vuhledar tactical group with one of the newly formed army corps of the Ground Forces.

The corps includes the following brigades:

In the Ukrainian structure, an army corps is an operational-tactical formation comprising several brigades and support units. For example, the 20th Army Corps includes the brigades listed above.

The reform seeks to create permanent formations with their own command structures that remain in fixed areas, in contrast to temporary tactical groupings. The new structure is expected to improve coordination between brigades and enhance command and control over large force groupings in active combat zones.

“I hope this reorganization will allow us to better manage personnel — to use troops more efficiently and build more capable reserves for future counteroffensive and offensive operations,” Syrsky stated.

He added that corps commanders are now responsible for selecting their own deputies and staff, promoting the renewal of operational leadership.

“Most corps commanders are former brigade leaders who proved themselves in battle. Their deputies and chiefs of staff as well,” Syrsky said. “We expect that this reform will improve combat effectiveness, help integrate battlefield experience, strengthen command over brigades, reduce losses, and increase enemy attrition.”

More analysis on Ukraine’s corps transition and its impact on the front lines is available in the Militarnyi Podcast.