Russia has deployed elements of its new 25th Combined Arms Army into Ukraine earlier than originally planned. This information comes from a British Ministry of Defense intelligence briefing.
"However, there is also a realistic possibility that Russia will attempt to use parts of 25 CAA to regenerate an uncommitted reserve force in the theatre to provide commanders with more operational flexibility," the briefing stated.
Back in August 2023, recruitment announcements for the 25th Combined Arms Army indicated that it would be deployed in Ukraine only from December 2023, according to British analysts.
It is quite likely that these elements were sent into combat earlier than planned because Russia continues to experience excessive strain on the front, and Ukraine continues its counteroffensive on multiple fronts, noted British intelligence.
However, there is also a real possibility that Russia may attempt to use units of the 25th Combined Arms Army to create reserve forces that will not be engaged in combat but will provide greater operational flexibility to the command.
