The Dominance of Technology and Infantry in Modern Warfare: Insights from Azov Commander

Lieutenant Colonel Denys Prokopenko, known as Redis, presented his insights on optimal weaponry and the future of warfare at the EstMil.tech 2024 military conference in Tallinn, Estonia. As the Commander of the 12th Azov Special Forces Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine, Prokopenko stressed the critical role of infantry and advanced technology in contemporary warfare.

Prokopenko emphasised the importance of well-trained and disciplined soldiers, noting them as the most valuable asset on the battlefield. He advocated for the integration of state-of-the-art and dependable technology to enhance the capabilities of infantry, establishing a unified system that drives comprehensive development in weaponry, technology, and strategic manoeuvres.

The commander acknowledged the limitations of modern technology in the face of a formidable adversary equipped with advanced air defence systems and potent electronic warfare capabilities. While recognising the advancements in automated battle management systems and robotics, Prokopenko highlighted their role in enhancing commanders’ situational awareness and troop effectiveness during the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Prokopenko also addressed the growing concerns about the potential replacement of soldiers by artificial intelligence (AI) on the battlefield. While acknowledging the pivotal role of technology in shaping the future of warfare, he underscored the enduring importance of soldiers as strategic decision-makers and problem-solvers, challenging the notion that robotic technology will completely supplant human intervention in military operations.

The insights shared by Prokopenko shed light on the evolving dynamics of contemporary warfare, where the synergy between human capabilities and advanced technology is increasingly paramount. His perspectives provide valuable considerations for military strategists and policymakers as they navigate the complexities of modern conflict scenarios, where the integration of infantry and technology is pivotal in shaping the outcomes of military engagements.

In conclusion, Prokopenko’s discourse serves as a compelling reminder of the enduring significance of well-trained soldiers and their symbiotic relationship with advanced technology in the context of contemporary warfare. As the landscape of conflict continues to evolve, the fusion of human expertise and technological innovation will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of military effectiveness and strategic success.

This thought-provoking address by Lieutenant Colonel Denys Prokopenko offers a compelling perspective on the pivotal role of technology and infantry in the future of warfare, underscoring the imperative of integrating human capabilities with cutting-edge advancements to navigate the complexities of modern conflict scenarios.