MOSCOW. Jan 10 (Interfax) - Russian forces are using motorcycle platoons in the special military operation zone to bring supplies and personnel to the frontline, the Russian Defense Ministry said.
"Motorcycle platoons are being actively used in the special military operation zone due to the high mobility and stealth of such vehicles. The motorcycle platoon of the Fifth Separate Guards Motorized Infantry Brigade of the 51st Guards Combined-Arms Army was established in summer 2024," the ministry said.
Motorcycle units bring supplies, including food, water, communication devices and ammunition, to the forces engaged in the hostilities in the Kurakhovo and other sectors of the special military operation zone, it said.
"Motorcycles provide safer and faster rotation of personnel at the frontline, evacuate the injured, and transport assault units on mission," the ministry said.
Motorcycles have an advantage over other military vehicles because of their narrow tires, which lower the risk of hitting a mine, and have high all-terrain qualities, unlike cars. Their size allows for fast maneuvering to avoid artillery fire, the ministry said.
"A properly trained motorcyclist can bring large cargo to the frontline. The high speed and maneuverability of a motorcycle make it better than an ATV, highly passable and load-bearing but quite slow and cumbersome in the woods," it said.