'Starlink Satellite Antenna' on Saddles... Russia Deploys Horses and Camels in Ukraine War

Not Only Cavalry Units, But Also Motorcycle Troops

There is evidence that the Russian military has deployed cavalry and camel units to the Ukrainian front, and has even installed Starlink satellite communication equipment on horse saddles.

According to the British daily The Telegraph on January 8 (local time), the Russian military recently released videos and photos showing satellite antennas, terminals, and backup batteries for Starlink communications installed on horse saddles. The footage was released through the Russian independent media outlet 'Astra' on its Telegram channel, and appears to have been filmed with a mobile phone camera.

In the video, two metal rods are attached to the horse saddle, with a Starlink terminal mounted on top. A man, presumed to be a soldier, states that he installed the Starlink terminal and explains in Russian, "I welded it here. Everything works very well." The Starlink terminal appears to have been installed to operate drones and other equipment in the harsh communication environment of the battlefield.

However, The Telegraph pointed out that despite the rapid advancement of technologies such as drones, the Russian military continues to use traditional methods as well. In addition to cavalry units, there are also troops deployed to the battlefield on motorcycles and mountain bikes.

Satellite antenna installed on a horse saddle. 'Astra' Telegram channel · Yonhap News

Previously, there have been several reports that the Russian military has mobilized donkeys, horses, and camels to transport ammunition and equipment in areas lacking paved roads.

According to The Telegraph, Semyon Pegov, a prominent Russian military blogger who operates the Telegram channel 'Wargonzo,' said that animals are being trained in the Donetsk region to avoid being startled by gunfire, artillery, and explosions. He stated, "Horses have good night vision, can accelerate at the last moment even without roads, and their instincts help them avoid landmines." He added that Russia's historically renowned cavalry is likely to make a return soon.

Meanwhile, in eastern Ukraine, there was also footage showing Ukrainian soldiers rescuing Bactrian camels that had been used by Russian forces during their offensives. Bactrian camels have traditionally been used in Central Asia and other regions because they can endure harsh weather and carry heavy loads. In February of last year, a photo was released showing a Russian soldier riding a camel.