A former Royal Marines Commando with three combat tours in Afghanistan has shared insights after returning from Ukraine, highlighting the evolving nature of modern warfare. Speaking with V24, @jaglancy emphasized that the recent conflict in Ukraine marks a significant shift from the conflicts Western soldiers experienced in Iraq and Afghanistan, suggesting that the era of “easy war” is over.
He noted that the ongoing conflict involves a full-scale, peer-to-peer confrontation, which presents new challenges for military strategists and soldiers alike. Unlike previous asymmetric wars largely characterized by counterinsurgency efforts, the Ukrainian conflict involves conventional forces engaging in large-scale combat operations, requiring different tactics and preparedness.
The veteran indicated that Western militaries must adapt to this new reality, acknowledging that the familiar, more manageable conflicts of recent decades are behind us. This transition demands updated training, equipment, and strategic planning to effectively confront peer-defined adversaries in today’s complex battlefield environment.
While the veteran’s insights highlight the changing nature of warfare, experts suggest that continued analysis and adaptation will be essential for Western forces as they navigate these new types of conflicts. The conversation underscores a broader understanding that modern warfare’s landscape is fundamentally different from past decades of military engagement.