The war in Ukraine continues, and in its conditions, every meter of land can be of strategic importance. This is especially true of the waste dumps that are found in large numbers in the Donbas. It would seem that these are just the remains of industrial activity, but in fact these hills become key points in the fighting. What are waste dumps and why is their capture so important for the Armed Forces of Ukraine – tells WomanEL.
ContentWhat are waste heaps and where are they located? The historical role of waste heaps in war Why are waste heaps of strategic importance in war? Commanding heights Defensive lines Labyrinths of tunnels Complicated assault How do the Armed Forces of Ukraine use waste heaps in their tactics?
What are tailings and where are they located?
Tarricones are high mounds of rock formed as a result of coal mining. They are most common in the eastern regions of Ukraine, in particular in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. Some of them reach a height of over 100 meters and have steep slopes, which makes them natural fortifications.
What are waste heaps and why did they become key points in the war? Source: pinterest.com
The Historical Role of Waste Heaps in the War
During the fighting in Donbas, the waste dumps have become a kind of “fortresses” that both sides are trying to capture. They are used to control the territory, conduct artillery shelling, and locate military bases.
Back in 2014, during the battles for Donetsk and Luhansk, the waste dumps became strategic points for which fierce battles were fought. In 2022, this trend was repeated – control over the heights gives an advantage, and their loss can be fatal for military positions.
Why are tailings of iron ore of strategic importance in war?
Commanding Height
Control over the waste heap means an advantage in observation and fire adjustment. Soldiers occupying the top can see enemy movements and effectively adjust artillery strikes.
Defensive line
A waste heap can serve as a natural fortification. It is much easier to dig in on its top or slopes than on flat terrain.
Labyrinths of tunnels
Under the waste heaps there are often abandoned mines and tunnels that can be used for covert movement of troops or for creating shelters. This makes it possible to avoid enemy observation and attacks.
A complicated assault
Due to the steep slopes and lack of natural cover, it is difficult for the attacking side to climb up. This makes the waste heap a powerful defensive position.
How do the Ukrainian military use tailings in their tactics?
The Ukrainian military seeks to control these heights, because it gives them tactical advantage. There are known cases when the Armed Forces of Ukraine used waste heaps to place observation posts, which helped to repel enemy attacks and conduct effective reconnaissance.
If earlier waste heaps were associated exclusively with the industrial past of Donbass, today they have become key points in the war. These man-made heights determine the tactics of combat operations and influence the course of the war.
Control over waste heaps is not only a military, but also a strategic advantage. That is why they remain one of the hottest points on the map of combat operations.
Earlier we told you what CAB is and why their use can change the course of the war.
