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- Ukraine is facing a severe manpower shortage as it continues to battle Russia’s invasion.
- But Ukraine’s 3rd Separate Assault Brigade is one of the most popular units in the Ukrainian army.
- It attracts new recruits with its PR-savvy approach and 12-strong media team.
For months, Ukraine’s armed forces have faced a Radio ROKS last year: “Our task, if he is weak, is to make the weakest the strongest.”
“We will not send him somewhere to die,” he added.
The 3rd also tries to help recruits with specific skills find the role that best fits those abilities.
“The 3rd Brigade customizes mobilization and contracts tailored to individuals. If someone isn’t ready for artillery work but is prepared for another role, they will try to find a different position for that individual,” Beketova said.
Ukraine’s Defense Ministry has noted the benefit of this.
In March, the department announced that it would be rolling out a new recruitment algorithm for the armed forces.
This algorithm “offers a clear mechanism for voluntary enlistment through recruiting centers and online,” Beketova said. “Candidates undergo interviews and tests before being assigned to their chosen unit.”
The brigade also offers a “patronage service,” which is designed to care for wounded fighters and prisoners of war.
“One often hears that there are two Ukrainian armies,” Kazdobina told BI.
“One following Soviet tradition of inefficiency and humiliation and one that is dynamic, well organized and respects soldier lives,” she said. “The Third Assault Brigade falls into the second category.”
The 3rd Brigade did not respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.