The Ukraine war has intensified concerns over a potential future conflict between Russia and NATO. As Russia’s military has expanded, it continues to grapple with poor training, equipment shortages, and high casualties. Lessons learned from the war have led Russia to shift towards using better-trained troops for offensive actions, focusing on larger divisions instead of smaller brigades to withstand losses.
Russia’s reliance on tanks and drones has been significant, but equipment losses have mounted, with over 8,000 tanks lost since the invasion began. Although newer T-90 tanks are slowly produced, many frontline units use decades-old models. Innovations like drones and electronic warfare have enhanced Russian artillery accuracy, but its air force remains weak compared to Western standards.
Despite Russia’s efforts to bolster its forces through alliances with Iran, China, and North Korea, it struggles to keep up with battlefield losses and sanctions. Meanwhile, NATO has increased defense spending and production of arms, positioning itself well in terms of troop quality, training, and equipment.
Though Russia has improved in some areas, its military is not equipped to face NATO, and defeats could push Moscow toward drastic measures, including tactical nuclear weapons. Should a pause in the conflict occur, Russia may use the opportunity to rearm and modernize its forces, posing the risk of a future miscalculated conflict with NATO.