Ukraine’s raids contrasted with Russia’s missing amphibious mass

Amphibious operations fall into four broad categories: raids, demonstrations, assaults, and withdrawals. Ukraine repeatedly found value in small raiding parties. Russia appeared to expect a rapid collapse rather than sustained opposition, leaving Moskva as the sole cruiser instead of assembling a heavily protected amphibious force. Its naval infantry also ranked low in practical funding despite the prestige attached to the formation. Ukrainian mobilization quickly closed landing sites that could be seized, supplied, and exploited with the forces available.