Bradley-Supported “Shkval” Unit Prevents Russian Foothold in Novoselivka Persha

15 July, 2024 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle during the battle near the village of Novoselivka Persha. July 2024. Ukraine.

Frame from the video of the 47th Brigade "Shkval" unit of ex-prisoners covered by Bradley infantry fighting vehicles prevented the invaders from gaining a foothold in the village of Novoselivka Persha, Donetsk region. The 47th Separate Mechanized Brigade released a video showing Bradley BMPs supporting infantry during the assault.

"All forces and means should be directed to support the infantry - artillery, heavy armored vehicles, intelligence data and active interaction with other units," the brigade said. Bradley infantry fighting vehicles of the 3rd Mechanized Battalion took part in the battle. The Bradleys were supposed to transport the soldiers of the Ukrainian "Shkval" unit, which was formed from ex-prisoners, to the enemy's positions. The American armored vehicles then covered the assault and hit the Russian positions in the forest plantations.

Novoselivka Persha on the DeepState map as of July 13, 2024

The "Shkval" unit consists of citizens who served their sentences in prison and is formed of volunteers who have decided to defend the country. "Our recruiting department took a very responsible approach to the selection process, and that's why every former prisoner was interviewed. Everyone has the right to make a mistake and, at the same time, to get a second chance," the 47th Brigade said.

For two months, the recruits were trained by the brigade's best instructors, who did their best to share all their combat experience.

Landing of assaultmans of the "Shkval" Special Battalion with M2 Bradley, July 2024. Photo credits: 47th Brigade

"These men are motivated and eager to fight from day one. However, the outcome on the battlefield always depends on quality training," the brigade noted.

The brigade notes that former prisoners serve exclusively in a separate unit of the brigade.