All Bling, no Basics - Why Ukraine has embarrassed the Russian Military

[@dylanreynolds4334]

“This is a channel that talks about video games. I don’t talk about serious stuff most of the time,” Perun said then and is now probably one of the most respected non-military analysts on KZbin 18 months later. Someone who has people wait each week for a new video to drop, and within hours has thousands of views. And honestly the only person who can make a 1.5 hour PowerPoint entertaining.

[@hungrymusicwolf]

The fact your comment has 38 likes when it is posted a year and a half after the video says so much about how many people STILL watch this video, and how well it has held up.

[@Bill31400]

@@hungrymusicwolf 38 ?

[@Neuttah]

​@@Bill31400Hey, we can do math on this now! 38 up votes in roughly the first month. 387 after 5! Means that post got ~80 up votes a month in the last 4 months. So, um...folks still watching. Maybe even a notable amount.

[@111076tom]

A pathetic psyops now eating dust...

[@johncarlaw8633]

​@@Neuttah "~80 up votes a month in the last 4 months" Just using this point to pin in my comment timeline 20240529, not trying to enter into a discussion on an ancient thread.. 475 comment likes after 8 months Video 2,104,243 views after 27 months 54k likes 1.4k dislikes. Edit : in the time to write this comment Now 2,104,254 views :-) Still attracting positive and negative like "A pathetic psyops now eating dust..." and later "You can trust Perun to be wrong about pretty much everything." Following on as they started many are an analysis of failure. Why don't things work as designed. Failing TO plan is planning to fail. Planning FOR failures is not planning to fail. "54:36 It's also ... important not to fall into the trap of chauvinism and be blind to the issues and flaws in Western militaries. We have waste, we have goal/spending mismatches, we have problems too. And if anything, the lesson we should take out of this is that it's really bloody important to hunt those down and be disciplined about it. " People adapt, some of the parameters and assumptions of 2 years ago have changed but the greatest error he made was a predictiong "55:19 And the final point is that I should go back to discussing video games" :-).

[@AMASSIVELOSER]

To this day I still can't believe Perun turned this channel from a gaming channel into a top tier military capability analysis channel overnight.

[@arsenalofdemocracy9985]

lmao for real？this channel used to be a gaming channel？

[@aeneasoftroy9706]

​@@arsenalofdemocracy9985 yes! Lol

[@cray2362]

yea, I started following him for that phoenix point video lmao

[@stefandawson7708]

My gaming history, consist of, from most recent backwards, Goldeneye on Nintendo 64, Street fighter 2 on SNES, Golden Axe in the arcade. So, not the best. My guess is, gaming has benefited how he is analysing this subject. And must be a factor in why he’s bossing this subject with his channel. Kudos to you Perun.

[@Baconatorz]

Eh, he's just a ukraine cheerleader really. Not very objective in his analysis.

[@thefisherking78]

55:30 "so now I'm going to go back to making videos about gaming and never do this again" Narrator: "he did not in fact go back to gaming"

[@Waikeur]

XD exactly what I was thinking

[@irgendwieanders2121]

Actually... www.youtube.com/@PerunGamingAU/about

[@Turnil321]

He did. He just moved his gaming stuff to a second channel. I originally watched him for his gaming videos.

[@thefisherking78]

@@Turnil321 cool but he's still doing this with a huge following so it's still funny

[@kurtfrederiksen5538]

Well looking at his view counts before he started to do videos compared to these sorts of videos. His gaming videos were typically 5-20K views, his new Russia/Ukraine videos 300K-2M views. I mean, just looking at the view count, can you really blame him for not continuing to do this? I have a feeling the gaming channel market is quite saturated, and he found a niche that clearly people are interested in.

[@Daaab89]

As a Polish guy I must admit that "unleash the Poles" is a rather tempting conception for many of us.

[@andrewjbasso1000]

Payback is a bitch.

[@gollumtheartisticnewt1028]

:-) Poles+Ukrainians = Russians :-(

[@TheLifeOfKane]

Poland has risen as a sort of Legend here in America since the war started 🤣

[@vigunfighter]

"Cry Havoc, and let slip the Poles of War!" (apologies to Shakespeare ;) )

[@timolthof6451]

lol

[@georgemorley1029]

Serving Royal Navy Logistics officer here. This video was quite honestly at a level that you would normally expect from a presentation at the Joint Command Staff College. What a pleasant surprise. Your fundamental understanding of how military capability should emanate from a national strategy underpins the essence of how staggering the decision to even begin this conflict in the first place actually was.

[@Internetbutthurt]

Jesus well that says alot about the calibre of the command staff of the UK. Its also total BS which would suit the top brass and politicians who are all deluded.

[@georgemorley1029]

@@Internetbutthurt It isn’t and you’re a troll. It’s very accurate and you can tell that the person who put this together knows the acquisition cycle, DLODs, and how military capability is generated very well indeed. By explaining why major areas of Russian military investment have had no significant bearing upon the tactical or strategic outcomes of the conflict so far, we can see the parlous state of affairs in Russian strategic planning which is misspending, misaligning and under developing the capabilities they need to win the wars they are choosing, literally CHOOSING, to fight. So piss off “Winston”, and stop regarding that book that you steal your avatar’s namesake from as a manual by which to live your life and as a WARNING to humanity on the perils of absolutist autocracy - people are literally being dragged off Russian streets for holding up blank pieces of paper and here’s you being a useful idiot for the incompetent fascists who are doing it.

[@Erok8019]

@@georgemorley1029 Winston Smith is a wannabe with nothing useful to say.

[@stevetierney2630]

Does he mention what he does for his day job? ;)

[@Nerlin]

@@stevetierney2630 Yeah I suspect his background is more then just gaming. At one point he says "for those of you that have never worked in this space". Which makes one wonder if the presenter did at one time...or still does.

[@mrjimmbo]

8:15 "western observer in Australia is not the most qualified..." Yeah that turned out to be pretty wrong my dude. You've killed it since this video. So impressed

[@thomasvandevelde8157]

If one looks at the sheer volume of crap being put out there since the start of this war? Definitely mate! I am truly shocked so far as to how deep we've fallen journalism wise, it's sad. We need more Peruns!

[@rogerwilco2]

Indeed. Perun and Anders Puck Nielsen are the best content on the war on KZbin. And Anders is a professional military who specializes on Russia.

[@ianshaver8954]

As it turned out, he was the most qualified.

[@hungrymusicwolf]

Unironically his worst prediction of all.

[@alienbotfarm187]

How is he killing it? Russia has been embarrassing Ukraine the entire time. All this is is propaganda forthe west to justice spending billions of dollars to kill people....

[@baldric44]

Ex-Royal Engineer here, I have witnessed as you might expect, numerous presentations on military subjects covering a wide variety of topics, yours is the only one that actually kept my interest, I found it to be extremely well presented and very informative, you should reconsider your career. Just a thought from an old sapper

[@arthurmoore9488]

But what if this is his career? Someone else joked about the likelihood that we're watching something that is ignored in his day job.

[@satanicmicrochipv5656]

Former U.S. Army 12B Sapper here. Having done multiple OpFor cycles, a couple of which were specifically Russian, the Russian military has been a paper tiger since the 70's and has failed to keep up with NATO miltary advances, especially as the U.S. became an all volunteer professional military in the 80's. The U.S. and NATO have ran away from Russia ever since. The Chinese used to make crappy copies of crappy Soviet equipment. Now they've stepped up their game and are making crappy copies of kickass NATO equipment. Both opposing forces are poorly trained conscript militaries that despite their size, lack the skill, kit and will to fight of Blue Forces. Well done being able to recognize the Red Force feebleness as a jody, demonstrating the power of a STEM education and it's inherent logic, deductive reasoning and critical thought capacity development. MAKE A HOLE!!! Sapper's clear the way! ('Cos even 11Bravo's need heroes.) Hooah.

[@MiketheMadness]

As a serving Engineer I must admit I may have stolen a couple of slides for Perun to make my shit look good

[@Ed_Stuckey]

I've been a subscriber for four or five months. On a whim, I decided to watch/listen to your first Ukraine war-related upload. I'm as impressed by your first presentation as I am by all of those I've watched since subscribing. I know you don't need kudos from me but KZbin seems to put a lot of emphasis on likes and comments. This is mine.

[@PerunAU]

much appreciated.

[@Engineersoldinterstingstuff]

Agree. Did the same thing after the Jake B. video. Amazing how accurate PERUN has been.

[@Ed_Stuckey]

@@PerunAU I checked for the upload of yours I started with. It was six months ago. Time flys!

[@michaziomek]

Yeah, i came to Perun for Phoenix Point, stayed for Power Point

[@MostlyPennyCat]

@@PerunAU I'm curious, how did you hit the ground running so well? Yes we know you're not military, not an analyst, but... What do you do? What is your field and qualifications? I'm curious if there's a link.

[@GolemRising]

I did a double take when I heard "After 7 days of cluster". I didn't realize this was released only a week into the conflict, its so spot on it almost perfectly describes the current situation so well.

[@haroldbell213]

Mucho vodka then rapido

[@robertj8451]

@@haroldbell213 i did the same thing

[@MrToast64]

Over a month later and this is aging extremely well.

[@TheFranchiseCA]

And two weeks after your comment, after the Russian retreat from Kyiv, Sumy, and Chernihiv, it is even more true. Now they have scaled back from four fronts and considering a fifth with an amphibious landing at Odesa, the North front has been abandoned, and the Northeast and South have been deprioritized as Russia focuses on the Donbass. (Which still may not work.)

[@izarscharf7845]

still does ...

[@WontonTV]

As a Russian emigrant, a point that is very important is that when you hear "$70bn military spending", in the Russian system, that means $20-25bn made it to its intended recipients and the rest was stolen and pocketed along the way. This is not an exaggeration.

[@rfwillett2424]

Which makes one wonder what sort of shape the nuclear forces are in.

[@comradesillyotter1537]

@Graf von Losinj ??????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????

[@babylon5reimaginedseries]

@@rfwillett2424 Rumor has it that only 1k of their nuclear missiles are functional.

[@rfwillett2424]

@@babylon5reimaginedseries Would not suprise me at all, but for all that I would rather we never actually find out one way or another.

[@babylon5reimaginedseries]

@@rfwillett2424 Indeed. The H-bomb dropped on Nagasaki missed it's "target" by over a mile. Still did a lot of damage! And those bombs were mere firecrackers compared to what we have today!

[@erikgreve6025]

Mate, Concur w/ numerous comments previous. I just retired after after 30 years in the US Navy, the last 7 spent teaching at one of the US Senior Service Colleges. This would be an outstanding example of how we would hope our graduates could analyze and critically think about this conflict! 👍 This is a SUPERB presentation and your analysis is extremely well supported and important for military and national security professionals to understand, so as to not draw the wrong conclusions from the Russian military’s experience in the present Russo-Ukraine war. You have my support and subscription.

[@omnianti0]

none made mention of the syria and chenyia victorious experiences of the russians

[@LMB222]

And to think about it, if a gamer from the other side if the world can do it, what conclusions have specialists in, say, Finland, drawn from this "war"? Probably that Russia can activate about 20% of its forces.

[@omnianti0]

@@LMB222 do you man peace time forces ?

[@Whisper555]

It's almost like he does something like this for a living and gets paid pretty well for it? 🤔

[@rethguals]

It makes me wonder what this guy does for a living or has studied in his life - he openly admits he isn't military, isn't a military expert and wants to avoid going down the "armchair general" route, doesn't want to go outside his lane... but delivers a carefully-planned and analytically-sound presentation that puts most staff officers and military historians to shame.

[@komradscera2222]

Watching this in 2024 feels like watching a superhero's origin story

[@jiri6691]

I come here now and then to watch it again. So good video.

[@alvaroflores2558]

So this how the Perun's saga began :)

[@JCShadow0202]

Currently watching this video for the first time in 2025, the quality of research and in depth analysis made me assume this guy was a professor at some military academy

[@jiri6691]

​@@JCShadow0202 He doesn't share any info. At first he said sometimes that "he cannot comment on anything about Australia", which made us assume its like maybe from Security Inteligence (ASIO). But later on he started saying that his work has nothing to do with this. Still no video about Australia, so I personally believe that.

[@kelly4187]

This screams of "I studied 3 years of military studies at university and I'll be damned if I don't use it!" Mate you've shown that you are far more than just some bloke that makes game videos. You've earned a sub here, in the hope that you periodically return to topics like this to give your insights. You've got a talent, and I think you know it. Keep it up.

[@jamescat8411]

It's amazing what video games can teach you.

[@shaggybreeks]

@@jamescat8411 Except in real life, there's no "pause" or "reset" button.

[@jamescat8411]

@@shaggybreeks Sad, but true.

[@crabluva]

He mentions at 52:40 that he likes to talk about videogames on his KZbin channel, not his dayjob :)

[@ZE0XE0]

@@shaggybreeks true. we should work on inventing one ;)

[@NighttimeNubbs]

"This is a channel that talks about videogames" Followed by load of war related videos. Found you recently due your corruption/artillery video and loving it, just interesting when a channel shifts drastically.

[@juliuszkocinski7478]

Usually when a channel shifts so drastically because of outside, top popularity even - it turnes shit really fast. This is one of the few expections which actually completely nailed new field of content

[@manuelschneider1105]

the corruption video got me. Shitbox 1980 is still slaying me :)

[@sprucemaroose]

@@manuelschneider1105 My first video too, now binging the rest!

[@buddermonger2000]

Yeah at 55:20 He said "The final point is that I should go back to talking about video games" and then people found the video, loved it, and so he made more.

[@JaySmurkzTV]

Some westerners never cease to amaze, let me tell you that for free 😭

[@とし-c1b]

Hello I am a Japanese working for JSDF in financial sector and this is almost a replica of what you hear in meetings when discussing management and I am Happy to see someone making a video I can relate so much to.

[@JoeOvercoat]

Never forget that your work is critical to the quality of life of the sailor on the deckplate, and global security. ;)

[@Darwinist]

Whoa, that's interesting. You rarely hear anything from what the JSDF is up to in the English-speaking world. Do you think that recent events in Ukraine are going to lead to a re-evaluation of Japan's national defense(and thus build) strategy?

[@thatindiandude4602]

@@Darwinist I know the guy didn't answer, but yes. Japan provided lethal aid to Ukraine. Then Japan has started calling Kuril Islands Northern territories and refer to them as illegally occupied. They are essentially antagonising Russia

[@Darwinist]

@@thatindiandude4602 Yes, this I know but what I am curious about is whether this policy shift is already influencing the long-term "build strategy" of the Japanese armed forces. Whether new capabilities will be built and the makeup of the army, navy and air force shifted.

[@scottjohnson9912]

@@thatindiandude4602 good , they deserve it.

[@jochenkirn9468]

Annual rewatch. This video is aging so well. What an amazing time capsule.

[@trob1731]

I was in the U.S. Navy as an Intelligence Specialist and am a veteran U.S. Army infantryman. Very clear, concise and well thought out presentation. You have an in depth understanding of how militaries work that normally requires some time in service. Well done.

[@frameripperz8794]

What will happen if Russia stopped sending their beat down crap? What’s very sad is Russia is using their own troops as sand bags . Russia knows that America is sending them Javelins and stingers . Well let these old Soviet era equipment suck up the rounds

[@colinhobbs7265]

@@frameripperz8794 That's not an actual strategy. They are sending this stuff because this stuff is all they have.

[@Laotzu.Goldbug]

@@frameripperz8794 that soviet-era equipment is the equipment that they have. The idea that Russia has deep strategic reserves of usable equipment, instead of just warehouses of rusted and corroded vehicles they haven't maintained well for decades is a fantasy. This is their best.

[@roybobxiv8996]

😂😂😂

[@roybobxiv8996]

Only the dumb end up as frontline infantry and no they don't then go on to navy signals....

[@michaelcooley66]

I served in U.S Navy during the cold War in an intelligence capacity. As a teen in the Seventies, I played Avalon Hill and SGI military games. My time in active military service only gave me a greater appreciation for the analytical aspects of strategic game design. You have no need to apologize for your analysis. I wish some of the Joint Chiefs who mucked up Afghanistan were as insightful.

[@TheHalcyonAnon]

I've been told that my tendency to dominate strategy games compared to a lot of my friends is frightening. One who works in intelligence suggested I work with generals 😂 (not that that actually means anything). Strategy is strategy. All strategy games are chess with extra flare, whether Civilization, StarCraft, or Stellaris. Not going to be during a wormhole cannon at Pedro II, obviously.

[@LMB222]

Did you time travel? SGI was founded in 1981.

[@carlburke1625]

@@LMB222 I think he meant SPI, which published Strategy & Tactics magazine in addition to multiple board games.

[@michaelsibson7941]

You are winning the asymmetrical commentary war. And I appreciate this very much. Peace is better than war but if you must fight it is best to mean it and to win. I felt Ukraine was in it from day 1. However without your well reasoned honest and informed commentary I would be crazy by now. Is the Polish red cross a good place to donate. Thanks for your work you and others.

[@4T3hM4kr0n]

@@TheHalcyonAnon not really "chess with extra flare" more like "rock paper scissors with extra flare"

[@luksweam]

The accuracy and quality of this analysis is absolutely stunning.

[@haydenbob5974]

It’s insane to think it’s been 8 months since this series started…

[@michielwerring5846]

It's insane to think it's been 9 months since your realisation it's been 8 months since this series started...

[@unexpected2475]

It's insane to think it's been a month since you mentioned it was insane that it had been nine months since his realization that it's been eight months since this series started...

[@tistelnilsson]

30 months.

[@rangda_prime]

History Major here: The idea of a "short, victorious war" has been a trap political establishments, parties and leaders have been falling headfirst into throughout human history, always reacting with shock and disbelief when the short leap turns into a deadly plunge into a bottomless pit.

[@Marco-fn6kg]

hitler did it at the start of ww2

[@mr.m1garand254]

History major here: absolutely! The examples are numerous it’s crazy

[@jameskazd9951]

i dont think it takes a history major to know this, i just have a casual interest in history topics and know of this

[@xidada666]

You should switch majors.

[@KenjaTimu]

@@Marco-fn6kg Naah, Hitler didn't want war. Not yet at least. He was a socialist and he was running out of other people's money. His economy was a ponzi scheme about to collapse. His government was spending 4 times revenue in peace time.

[@TheRadicalCentrist.1776]

This is quite possibly the best military analysis I've ever seen. I was in Desert Storm. I have studied military battles across history at length for 30+ years. This is absolutely outstanding work.

[@omnianti0]

so what your personnal annalise of this event when knowing the tchenyia and syrian war where russian learned

[@thekinginyellow1744]

@@omnianti0 It is possible to learn the wrong lessons from victory or defeat. The so called "cope cages", for instance. Quite useful in Chechniya and Syria, where the primary infantry AT weapons are RPGs fire from above at close range. Utterly useless against NLAW or Javelin.

[@omnianti0]

@@thekinginyellow1744 not useless against grenades dropped by drones or even against sucide drone i seen one of them is only 1kg warhead nothing comparable to the nlaw

[@thekinginyellow1744]

@@omnianti0 a drone dropped grenade is not a threat to an MBT, with or without cage armor. Neither are most loiter weapons.

[@philmckenna5709]

Wtf is tchenyia?

[@chance20m]

A comment I recently heard on the subject: Russia has a large, modern military. But the large part isn't modern and the modern part isn't large.

[@christopherellis2663]

All packaging, no content.

[@JuanMurphy45]

The next line was something like "and the large part is getting smaller"

[@MoskusMoskiferus1611]

More Numbers than Quality

[@mikoto7693]

Haha congratulations that made me laugh.

[@soppdrake]

🤪🤣

[@talesofcanterbury42]

7 days into the Russia Ukraine war and Perun came up with this amazing analysis. Stunning, gobsmackingly stunning.

[@DeusExAstra]

4 weeks after this video was published and it's aged very well. Excellent analysis.

[@grugg3108]

Oh dear, the age of this video didn't even occur to me

[@usecriticalthinking243]

@@grugg3108 same and yall comments are a month old

[@philip4193]

Update: 9 weeks later and it is even more relevant today, now that we are seeing the Ukrainians not only force the Russians to retreat in the north and cancel their operation to take Kyiv but also to make serious ground against the Russians in the Donbas.

[@MeusliCat]

5 months later, its all still true. I wish you could come and lecture New Zealand's defence.

[@honzabalak3462]

This video was extremely well thought out and put together and I absolutely don't regret spending a hour of my free time to watch it.

[@Dung30n]

Not only that, but as stated in the video, the lessons outlined can be applied to any business practice.

[@ColdHawk]

That is high praise. I heartily agree!

[@jlhaslip]

Ditto. Thank you.

[@mainepants]

This video was more thought out than the Russian invasion. They probably regret spending less than an hour working it out.

[@fwi1298]

yes well worth the hour

[@Nick-hm2dm]

I don’t know how I stumbled upon this, but I’m US Army acquisitions and so much of this resonates with the knowledge and way of thinking about how business practices and thinking are tied into logistics and filling capability gaps within the space of mission command. I’m looking forward to more!

[@RedProdductionsInc]

Boy, do you have a fun couple months of videos to catch up on haha

[@paparayg]

A comment on the bloated officer corps in the Russian military: In other reports it has been reported that the Russian military doesn't have a well developed "Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) program" established. Without properly trained and experienced NCO's, any military would have to have a much larger officer corps to maintain control of their military operations. It is no coincidence that the greater majority of American "Medal of Honor" recipients were NCO's. (SMSgt. Ret.)

[@buckplug2423]

And again - if you wanted to field a highly capable, yet small professional force which can do stuff like take Kyiv in 24 hours you'd NEED that NCO corps, with enough capabilities to make on-ground informed decisions and win you the battle. Cause you're not gonna take Kyiv with a brigade or a corps - it's gonna be a battalion or two, with fighting taking place on a platoon level. So they better be really good platoons otherwise they'll get bogged down and killed and now a bunch of Internet nerds are making thousands of VDV memes.

[@soonerarrow]

@Ray Grant SMSG Grant... From my perspective, your comment is highly underrated, even given it's recent posting. As a ten year Army veteran, separating some 30 years ago, with all TIS as enlisted, I could not agree more with your assessment. The U.S. Army NCO and Enlisted Corps, are the worldwide standard bearers of how superior quality fighting forces should operate. The Officer Corp has clearly delineated tasks to lead by providing clear objectives and to make certain their subordinates are given sufficient resources to succeed at achieving those objectives. They are even trained to listen to and not dismiss the more experienced voices within the NCO ranks on how best to achieve these objectives while minimizing casualties for our own forces and innocent civilians. Also, as this content creator pointed out, our all volunteer force, in and of itself, creates the trustworthy environment that most Commissioned Officers must rely on to delegate mission critical objectives to Senior NCO's, who these individuals will delegate even further down to still highly motivated and highly trained lesser NCO ranks. Our military branches teach leadership at every rank and then provide the task scenarios which the best will surface during the worst of times. I haven't had an overarching desire to keep up with the day to day misadventures of Putin's forces because I, like many other military veterans probably, knew that this little war could not and would not be won by the Russian state. I know a number of Russians personally from my corporate career. My discussions with them regarding their mandatory conscription service, just informed me of their complete lack of trust and respect in their political and military leaders. Indeed, most Russian's, given the opportunity at fair, honest and without fear of retribution elections, would have thrown out this kleptocracy that has nefariously ruled them for almost 25 years. Unless Putin and his stooges are willing to risk further political and military embarrassment by stupidly escalating the conflict, their only saving grace will be to bow out and then take stock of their real status as a third-tier military state with even that status only propped up by their minimally maintained nuclear forces. Unfortunately, experience informs me that Putin and those that surround him are guided only by purely selfish ego's to garner further stolen financial wealth or military hats with an 18 inch peak. 🙄

[@TheOmniculture]

The BACKBONE of ANY military. No NCOs, no wins.

[@paparayg]

@@soonerarrow - The Russians have the same problem today that NAZI Germany had in WWll: The west can simply outproduce Russia with military materiel! Private enterprises produce the weapons and munitions purchased by the government. The Russian government outright owns and controls ALL war materiel production. That is why it is so inefficient! This is a graphic demonstration between a free commerce system and a socialist government system.

[@titovalenzuelam]

Sargent Major Grant: Although I am just as layman as Perun (who, by the way delivered an OUTSTANDING presentation), I wholeheartedly agree with you. Because of the conscripted force in Russia, their noncoms are “instant wonders” (selected from the troop cadre and given short additional training in order to be corporals, sargents, warrant officers, etc.). Therefore, as opposed to the US armed forces, it falls upon the Russian junior officers to perform the day to day duties that normally would be carried out by PROFESSIONAL noncoms as yourself. Thank you for your service!😊

[@michaelgoldsmid4856]

Military historian here. Eerily accurate analysis of this conflict. While my knowledge of Ukrainian forces is sketchy at best (so I can't comment on that) your examination of Russian military strength and doctrine is bang on accurate. Also, watching this two weeks later into the conflict has merely reinforced your arguments. A great summary Perun, far better than any others I've found. Well done.

[@Sk0lzky]

The Ukrainian military is difficult to evaluate accurately even if you speak the language due to the fact that it was reformed twice in the last few years (after getting essentially dismantled by previous governments), and technically speaking the latest reform wasn't even properly introduced. For example we see that the best equipped, and most experienced parts of the ground forces (besides SF) are so called national guard units consisting of largely self-funded volunteers. According to my professor the doctrine itself is very ad hoc due to the ATO and Crimea crisis but this part is from like 2 years ago and I have no access to any leaked docs above platoon level >< t. Ukrainian studies major (since Perun seems not to like people getting out of their lanes :v)

[@LaneVermilion]

@@Sk0lzky can I ask how much of the national defense force is comprised of the Azov Battalion? Is it sort of a fringe minority or is it a fairly large chunk?

[@Sk0lzky]

@@LaneVermilion it's technically a regiment now, numbering about 1000 members (out of 50k national guard and about 300k armed forces in total), although those numbers are from before the russian invasion, which on one hand caused casualties (the proper, main force of Azov is fighting in the most intense area at the moment), but also clogged the territorial defence recruitment to the point that nacgvardia regiments have to essentially take on some of that load, including some funny, fat retired university professors from KZbin. Most of those recruits, however, don't join the fights in the south-eastern front, but rather act in the same way as the territorial defence (aka got guns and clothes, better than those available to territorials, and are undergoing training to serve as the last line of defence, mainly in Kiev and irregular warfare in the countryside if it comes to this)

[@Sk0lzky]

Btw Azov's current colonel is also a politician, his organisation's ideological framework is really interesting, because from what I've read, while generally nationalist, it in fact calls for unprecedented degree of decentralisation and local self-governance, as opposed to the typical "national unification" and centralisation promoted by such movements. I guess if the actual neobadguysfromWW2 in the regiment actually bothered to read something (and I bet they haven't even tried reading Mein Kampf) other than tweets, they'd be very concerned lol

[@KenS1267]

This conflict will likely be viewed as the first major conflict lost entirely due to corruption and incompetence in the command staff. While the Ukrtainians are certainly acquitting themselves well the Russians are throwing away lives because their leadership have been stealing for decades and the lower ranks had no idea what to do with what they did get. I'm not saying it should have been a cakewalk but it should have been reasonably easy for the Russians considering their manpower and equipment advantage.

[@CombinedArmsEnjoyer]

Great video! You should do more of these (for once, YT recommended something interesting). As a Ukrainian and someone who had to flee the war twice (2014, 2022), may I add a few points? Ukraine's motivation (military and civilian) was severely underestimated by Russia. They expected flowers, they got drive-by molotovs and exceptional defensive tactics from the UAF (letting Russians in to extend their supply lines was a great move). It's hard to overestimate the togetherness/ unity that we experience now. Even formerly pro-Russian people are taking up arms, volunteering, or donating. The charity/ volunteer front. People are donating everything they've got to military-adjacent charities that supply targeted units, especially SOF guys. Everything from recon drones and NVGs to 4+ class armor and laptops. For example, over the past couple of weeks, the public donated $30+ million. Doesn't sound much, but those funds get applied strategically. For example, the revived Tochka U program was sponsored almost completely by these charities (from vehicle renovations to supplies). The government basically supplied the original weapons systems and just allowed these groups to help the military units directly. Military experience. The bulk of UAF rotated through Donbass over the past 8 years. We're the only military in the world right now with experience in conventional warfare. Period. While Russians were busy bombing hospitals in Syria, Ukrainians were developing tactics and cohesion. At least to my knowledge, rotation didn't happen that actively on the Russian side. Authoritarian strategy. One man decided to start the war. I'm sure if this was up to the generals, this war wouldn't have happened. And as such, their strategy lacked a reality check. Corruption. Obviously, you mentioned it, but I think you underestimate the extent of it. While they were out on the border, maneuvering, there were tons of reports about the Russian troops selling fuel, etc. for some cash. Soldiers captured reveal Soviet era medkits ... I'm willing to bet that on paper they were all supplied with modern medkits, but the funds were pocketed. There videos with captured MREs that were 7 years out of date. I'm willing to bet that these were also fresh ... on paper. And that's just the tip of thr iceberg. The military is a reflection of its country and Russia is one of the most corrupt regimes out there. There's a ton of other points, but maybe next time.

[@nickkangtaylorb]

Whoa whoa whoa please comment with more thoughts. Can you go in deeper on the corruption aspect and maybe more about russias next move?

[@bruhmanthetruthprovider2201]

"Bombing Hospitals in Syria" little Hypocritical coming from Ukraine hahaha

[@kenjohnston8173]

Most excellent

[@StephanHoyer]

Great insights here, thank you. Hope this ends well for your country and I can visit it any time in the furture. My Father worked in Kharkiv as a IT-Expert for a few years log ago and really liked it there! Sad the Putin bombed this to shit! We stand with you here in Germany!

[@kevinlindley6406]

@@bruhmanthetruthprovider2201 What does Putin taste like, though.

[@anthonymorris2276]

As an Australian, I am deeply proud that an Aussie gaming channel has produced the most well-reasoned, cogent and compelling analysis of these issues that I have been able to find anywhere on the Internet. Just as Ukraine has embarrassed Russia militarily, I apprehend that Perun has embarrassed all the US and European media behemoths, with their very deep pockets and ready cheque-book access to commentators who claim to have the best and most relevant expertise available. Congratulations and thank you for this contribution to public understanding of the most pressing international conflict currently facing the whole of humanity.

[@JoeOvercoat]

Also, American women think his accent is hot. FACT!

[@azishappy2035]

We love you Aussies❤ from California

[@Anita-k]

As an Austrian/European (not an Australian), who's been watching a bit of your US news media outlets, I highly suspect, they've all been binge watching Perun's war analysis videos in the meantime, bc now they're shamelessly copying his content.

[@ac1455]

It’s because they don’t want to lose their more general audience by discussing details. They really missed a niche audience as I’d believe a majority of men would be interested considering how many are interested in discussing sports.

[@asdf_asdf948]

It's because media conglomerates aren't about informing the public. They're about enriching themselves by driving viewership to drive ad revenue, and maintaining relationships with political and industry leadership.

[@shaneconnor86]

I learned more about the meaning, planning and refinement of capability in just under an hour than I learned in 20 years in the Royal Australian Air Force - what a Master Class.

[@irgendwieanders2121]

I do hope someone in your military gets him onboard... Greetings from Austria

[@antonnurwald5700]

@@irgendwieanders2121 Well, right in the beginning he says "We in the acquisition space" and he also stressed that he can't talk about Australian acquisition. So here you go, he works in Australian defense acquisition.

[@irgendwieanders2121]

@@antonnurwald5700 Possible, even probable. Only alternative I see is him working in arms sales, the natural partner of defence acquisition

[@obe22099]

I'm glad I found this video. I always wanted to have my own military but I was unsure about little things like money, equipment, manpower. After watching this video I'm confident I can build up my military and possibly take over the world.

[@JoeOvercoat]

The Pentagon is way ahead of you, and has hardly made a dent in it. Honest.

[@warbler1984]

@@JoeOvercoat no...no..I think he might get there

[@JoeOvercoat]

@@warbler1984 no really, I am a megalomaniac myself bent on world domination…but then there are my sisters, so sure my situation is special, but relatable!

[@thelazy0ne]

Where do I sign up master? I want my own super yacht☝️😌 I will provide much needed "yesmanship" ant level 15 full options incompetence 😊

[@obe22099]

@@thelazy0ne I'm setting up a onlyfans I'll keep you updated. I'm growing out my chest hair and learning mixed martial arts and training my bear mount.

[@worldsokayestcatdad6798]

I did not come here to listen to an entire hour long video essay about the Ukrainian conflict, but I certainly stayed here to listen to an entire hour long video essay about the Ukrainian conflict! Well done! Somewhat sad that you are doing this as a one off. I still have half a cup of coffee here. Splendid analysis, thank you!

[@TimberwolfCY]

Masterclass of a presentation. The way you carried it (complete with slight audio reverb) let me think you were on-stage at a TedTalk. That was a very quick 56 minutes. Your tone and breadth of topics and supporting thoughts and facts were excellent. I hope you'll do a follow-up at some time, but its clear you are a sort of Cincinnatus: you did this because you felt compelled by need, not due to self-interest or ego. I don't know where you work, but they are damn lucky to have you. Thank you so much for the time and effort you clearly put into this.

[@abrahamrockers6265]

can i assume the reverb was intentional?

[@smaragd_]

LOL complete ignorance to put it mildly. Filled with empty talking points and accidental hits, with a cherry on top in a form of childish title.

[@ctrlaltdebug]

If you can't see that the war is basically over, with Russia encircling the Ukrainians in a series of cauldrons, you have been watching too much CNN/Fox News.

[@jonathanbowen3640]

@@ctrlaltdebug It may be over soon, but its likely Zelensky will stay, probably ceding a few small territories and Ukraine probably wont join NATO any time soon, but the fact is the Russians haven't really gained much from this conflict and have lost plenty. It's been a disaster for Russia tbh. More so than Ukraine in many ways, particularly in the medium term.

[@UnfollowYourDreams]

@@ctrlaltdebug ukraine can't lose this. All they have to do is keep resisting to make it a second afghanistan for russia.

[@johnvissenga328]

I first watched this video in early March, and have stuck like glue to this channel ever since, after 11 months I decided to revisit some of the episodes. I find it quite incredible how well this original look at the war has stood the test of time. Yes there has been improvements in presentation and in things like the sound quality etc but to be honest, in my view these were really not important. All along it has been the content, the clarity of thought and the logical pursuit of these thoughts that has been outstanding. This is the first (and only) KZbin channel I have joined. Thank you so much for being such an excellent guide and educator through these terrible times

[@REDtanker2]

I am a recently retired field grade armor officer and a retired history teacher and I must say this is a very well thought out, realistic presentation on the current war in Ukraine. This is the first time I’ve watched one of your videos and I must say you did an excellent job on explaining why the difficulties the Russians are having prosecuting this war and the Ukrainians seem to be more successful in their efforts in defending their territory. I also must commend your explanation and insights on how and why nations build a military for their tactical/operational/strategic needs.

[@je-freenorman7787]

Poor baby Soldiers are all dumb dogs Stop fighting ?

[@drones7838]

It really is

[@je-freenorman7787]

Youre not a war teacher. War is a scam. There is no war right now. They are scamming people. ITS FAKE NEWS

[@khangvutien2538]

I discovered this 7-months old video in October 2022. Wow. This author has 7 months advance over all these talking generals we hear on popular TV channels. I subscribed. Follow up, 7 months later (June 2023): it’s still mostly valid, considering it has been done 7 days after Putin’s “special operation” started.

[@uku4171]

Got recommended this right about when it came out as I was glued to my screen trying to find any reliable news of what was happening in Ukraine. Been watching every video since. I think it's almost anxiety-inducing to think about how much worse the KZbin Ukraine discourse would be if you hadn't started making your weekly slideshows. And your videos are basically the only thing that make keep track of which day of the week it is. I am so very thankful to you for doing this.

[@dxps26]

This Video aged like a fine wine. A lot of the things you mentioned about Russia is also mirrored in one of it's closest allies - India. Endemic corruption, a penchant for prestige weapons, old soviet equipment, underpaid and undervalued troops, and many more. The current government is trying to cut down defence spending by proposing a short-term 'contract' service for 3-5 years, versus the long-term 17-year commitment - the argument is that the pensions for the traditional armed forces are too costly, and by adopting a 'tour of duty' model they can reduce spending on salary and pensions down the line, while keeping active troop numbers constant. Meanwhile, they've spent millions on hypersonics, spent far too much to get a scant handful of Rafales, and still spend crazy sums on maintaining worn-out soviet-era equipment. All the while - their Navy literally burns up on the dock, they have not invested in producing reliable, high-performance small arms (an easy low-investment-high-reward venture) - but they instead chose to eliminate the one good thing they have - a well-trained, professional, dedicated, and motivated fighting force.

[@seneca983]

Btw, I've seen some news that there has been protests in India against these proposed military reforms. What's the reason that a significant part of the population seems favor the old system?

[@dxps26]

@@seneca983 They are protesting because the eligible age cutoff mean 2 whole year's worth of possible recruits are disqualified, because there was no recruiting during Covid. They wanted a waiver for this age cutoff, and the government hastily approved it. They are also not happy that they will be no pensions or anything besides a small lump sum payout at the end of service. Basically it's a raw deal and the people know it.

[@seneca983]

@@dxps26 Thanks. Does that mean that a military career is a very common aspiration in India? One would think if the deal gets bad for those who might enlist in the future, then it would just mean fewer people wanting to take that deal rather than protesting over it.

[@dxps26]

@@seneca983 it is a very competitive and desirable career choice. The benefits are worth the sacrifice and your family is well cared for. This new plan does away with all that.

[@seneca983]

@@dxps26 Thanks for the info.

[@EdgyShooter]

"Vanity capabilities" That is an excellent way of describing a lot of flagship projects, especially by dictatorial states

[@thinhvcoin]

Like the IFV Bradley?

[@jaidengabriel1675]

Bradley wasn't that bad

[@roguevector1268]

@@thinhvcoin Bradley wouldn't still be in service 40 years later if it was a mere 'vanity project'. Plus, vanity projects tend to be 'war winners' like tanks or aircraft carriers or 'super duper fighter jets'; the B2 Spirit program would be what I would call a vanity project'; very expensive in terms of 'bang for buck'.

[@gingerlicious3500]

@@accountantthe3394 Saying that the F-35 is a bad plane is the fastest way to let everyone know you don't know anything about military aviation.

[@gingerlicious3500]

@@accountantthe3394 Who cares? It wasn't ever intended to reach supercruise. When it comes to the factors that make fifth-gen fighters game-changers, supercruise is at the bottom of the list. Stealth and data fusion are the things that make fifth-gen fighters great, and in those regards the F-35 is #2 and #1 in the world, respectively (the F-22 is the only plane that is stealthier, but the data fusion package on the F-35 is far superior to that of the Raptor, which is already so outdated in that regard that it is on the chopping block for retirement within the decade.) And considering how much the F-35 cleans up at Red Flag (22:1 K/D ratio with rookie F-35 pilots shooting down grizzled F-15 pilots like it's nothing), that the Israelis have used it in a combat role to a great extent, and the fact that most of the best air forces around the world (with Sweden and Canada being the most recent customers) have put in orders for F-35s despite there being other advanced jets on the market, you're really just making yourself look more like an idiot with your statement. Let me ask you a very simple question: What makes you think you know more about what makes a fighter aircraft a superior one than people whose entire life's work is the study and practice of aerial warfare? Are you truly such a victim of the Dunning-Kruger Effect that you think you know more than the pilots who fly these aircraft into battle?

[@remakeit2628]

I originally stumbled across this by pure chance and was impressed. Nearly 8 months later I can honestly say that a weekend dose of @Perun is the only KZbin fixture that I look forward to... to the point of dropping everything to tune in. And almost unbelievably so, the content gets better as each week passes. Equally, the fasted hour of my life disappears in a sublime powerpoint presentation that still seemed too short. Who knew that brilliance was actually a drug of dependence?

[@Mahrac126]

You might also want to check out Kings and Generals. He has a monthly recap series on the war, and covers plenty of historical conflicts besides.

[@remakeit2628]

@@Mahrac126 Cheers. I finished my history studies 40 years ago and remain more interested nowadays in the here and now, with an eye to the future.

[@mithrane]

Russian Rule : "You can not use Conscripts outside of Russian Territory" Russian Policy : "We consider these people or this place to be Russian. Therefore, it is our territory. Therefore, this is not a war of aggression. We are liberating our people on our land."

[@martinschmidt4894]

Germans pulled the same stunt in Alsace. They considered Alsacians, which was part of France, to be Germans and then conscripted them.

[@MrKockabilly]

@@martinschmidt4894 Exactly. Putin, despite anti-Nazi rhetoric, is actually a Nazi in his actions. He's just capitalizing on the widespread anti-Nazi sentiment of the Russian people.

[@davidashton6567]

The Ukrainians would seem to disagree with this view

[@mithrane]

@@davidashton6567 Correct. Every (sensible) person in the world does. Just as they did with Germany in the 1900's on multiple occasions. My comment was in reference to the fact that any mention was made about Russia's self-dictated rules. Anyone who thinks they have any intention of adhering to even their own rules, such as "no conscripts outside of our borders", is ignorant (willfully or otherwise) of the Russian Government's capacity to justify anything they want to do and state with a stone face that they are following the rules.

[@mangalores-x_x]

@@martinschmidt4894 Someone may recheck his history ed again. Germany never conscripted Alsacians except when said territory were German territories which happened as part of the peace of 1871 and 1940 as part of the peace treaties and thus the inhabitants of those regions German citizens. That is laughably different than how Putin argues his war which is more reminiscient of nationalist German and then Nazi rhethoric that all German inhabited lands should be German which was about former Austrian Hungarian lands and Danzig in particular.

[@CKPill]

For being a year old, it has aged pretty good. Well done

[@LetoATX]

Former US Army Intelligence Analyst here. HQ 8th Army in Seoul. Like others have commented this is as well thought out, concise and thorough as any briefings I gave or got. Good on you, mate.

[@brianeleighton]

As a former US Army soldier, this briefing was excellent. One of the best AARs I have ever been privy to.

[@je-freenorman7787]

As a Human, you joined a cult Soldiers are all Dumb Dogs

[@jamesshoebridge7891]

Never seen your channel before, but i just want to say this was a fantastic logical perspective on the ukraine conflict.

[@tomshamrock7371]

why do you call it the Ukraine conflict? Why don’t you call it a war???

[@tubthump]

@@tomshamrock7371 it's a proxy war. "...the United States aids Ukraine and her people so that we can fight Russia over there and we don't have to fight Russia here". US congressman Adam Schiff, January 2020

[@SueMyChin]

@@tubthump Kinda but Russia then invaded Ukraine at which point it's not a proxy war.

[@tubthump]

@@SueMyChin fair enough. It was a proxy war when it was confined to Donbas separatists and Azov volunteers. Now it's half of a proxy war.

[@tomshamrock7371]

@@tubthump Dude, I’m Ukrainian and I’m in Kyiv. I can see with my own eyes what's going on here. It’s a war

[@daviddecker1994]

I was pleased to revisit this early days evaluation and hear how right you are now and we're on top of it right from the beginning.

[@hanzzel6086]

He got one major thing massively wrong: This isn't a gaming channel anymore.

[@janak132]

As a former member of the USSR, Ukraine has the inside track on Russia's capabilities and tactics, especially since neither appear to have changed much since the '80s. Imagine the benefits of knowing your enemy that well.

[@IronWarhorsesFun]

add 8 Years of NATO providing "aid" to ukriane miltary during the civil war. essentially USA heavily invested in making this war happen and making russia hurt. and they succeded.

[@atomicenergycommission9820]

@@IronWarhorsesFun It's not a "civil war" it was a russian invasion in a disguise

[@SFclan2]

@@IronWarhorsesFun good, the recent war was all putins doing. "Aid" well spent.

[@oscaranderson5719]

@@tohkai1959 “throwing bodies at it” is, while disturbingly simple, still technically a tactic

[@AKKK1182]

That was Ukraine up until the 2014 when the Russian invasion began. From there they have been preparing for this day for 8 with the help of NATO. Ukrainian military has tens if not hundreds of thousands of reservists with combat experience from Lughansk and Donbass. Putin expected to just roll in like they did in 2014 (and back then the UA military did fold like a lawn chair) but what they face today is a prepared and hardened force and a nation that was united very much "thanks" to the Russian invasion of 2014.

[@livethefuture2492]

In regard to your ending remarks, i would say judging by the immense response on these analysis videos, you certainly could make a living talking about your day job! These videos are absolutely invaluable in understanding the current situation, and your detailed and balanced arguments are a breath of fresh in a sea of speculation and sensationalism. Well Done!

[@joehammond1247]

"Never interrupt your enemy when he is making a mistake" Napoleon Bonaparte

[@bflat602]

This video has aged remarkably well.

[@southbirdsouthbird]

I discovered Perun some how early on in this Ukrainian conflict. I was hooked. It blows my mind to go back one year later and revisit his maiden efforts. Just amazing how insightful, accurate and prescient he was. So happy to be his Patreon subscriber.

[@discodiana1984]

This actually aged well. Great video.

[@OzCambo]

As an Australian, I sincerely hope you are working in, and can influence, our Defense Department.

[@LMB222]

You need a Chinese Perun ("Thunder") for this role.

[@Alan.livingston]

@@LMB222 hahaha it’s sad but true.

[@Darkside007]

In later videos he says he cannot discuss Australia, so he definitely does.

[@phueal]

@@Darkside007 he does talk freely about Emutopia though, and how they spend all their dollaridoos!

[@raemont1328]

To this day is this the best and most well informed video about the basic of military spending and strategic economy. This is Perun and the best!

[@RudolfHuber]

I rarely ever watch presentations twice - I usually zip through them at high speed often breaking out before halfway point as most are simply very bad. This was one of the very rare very good ones. I learned stuff today and your line of argument is more than compelling. Please do more stuff outside video games - I will definitely watch. Thank you for this valiant effort, sir.

[@patobrien6364]

You may not be military in experience but by God you have a very good read on things. Very well thought out, explained and described. Corruption is a MAJOR issue Major budgets, but major kickbacks

[@hawlitakerful]

It is insane to think back to this video every once in a while. How much YOU changed my view on things and therefore makimg me a better person who is more aware of his suroundings over the last year and a half....(22.08.2023) I know you will probably never read this but Thank you so much for your efforts and i am so glad that you found your calling apparently with your audience

[@meekmild8964]

Oh, well read sir. I have watched you since the beginning, and yet, when i return to your first works, you nailed it. Respect. From an aussie.

[@tsilikasp]

Impressive, truly impressive analysis. This was a terrific presentation, starting from data analysis, logical expression, pace, delivery. Truly masterful performance. You, sir, are operating at your full potential and the rest of the world is recognizing it.

[@Bob-nd2mr]

accidentally clicked on this today 31 aug 2023 Perun has been spot on. RESPECT ...... TRACK RECORD IS EVERYTHING.....

[@ronnie111000]

I am a 71 year old female who generally has little interest or background in military strategy or weaponry. However, over the past month I have tried to learn about the forces operating in the Ukrainian conflict because I amd convinced of how crucial it is for the future of Western democracies. Of all of the materials available to me, your videos are one of the best at explaining and analysing the military components of the war. I would very much appreciate it if you would to continue to make videos about the conflict!!! For those of us who are following this conflict it is important to have knowledgeable and balanced evaluation of the situation. You clearly have a strong background and a gift for exposition and analysis. Your talents are really useful in trying to sort through the projections of all of the dozens of military prognosticators in the media and on the internet. I would love you to talk more about: 1) How the Russians have been configuring and organizing their offensive ground troops and their supply lines so far. How could they have done better? What are their options and strenghs in the next phase? 2) What are the possible/best Ukrainian defense configurations and tactics against Russian artillery, both in the open and in occupied areas. What weaponry and troop levels does Ukraine need? What do they need to retake the Donbass? 3) Why has there been so little air power activity so far? Where are the Russian planes and helicopters? Have the Ukrainians used their air resources to good effect? 4) If the Ukrainian army did get more MIGs, how could they use them in the Donbass? Are helicopters more effective? Do you need these at all if you have good ground-based artillery? 5 A discussion of the fundamentals of the situation in the Donbass, such as the geography (roads, water barriers, flooding etc.), population distribution, pro-Russian and pro-Ukrainian enclaves. Russian troop levels and emplacements, and key military targets. 6) How about the territory to the Donbass where Ukrainian forces are supposedly dug in? What needs to happen so they are not surrounded? Thank you for your excellent videos about a situation that is of great concern to many of us. Please continue to help us understand the situation as it moves into the next phase.

[@rudolfstarosta1776]

A 71 year old female with this sort of analysis of a Male dominated environment, bring it on and enhance the subject matter. You rock.

[@madiantin]

I second @SweetHomeWest . This video was absolutely excellent and had me glued to the screen. I would LOVE to see more videos on the questions SweetHomeWest asked.

[@echodelta2172]

@@rudolfstarosta1776 simp

[@je-freenorman7787]

They want Women to fight now Arent you lucky? Enjoy the Draft

[@JoeOvercoat]

Thank you so much for your efforts. I love you. No really...we need more Americans like you.

[@spacelemur7955]

What a pleasure to listen to the right person speaking intelligently about a subject he understands and knows what his lane is and isn't. Thanks for making this series of videos. They fill a need. I will be linking others to you.

[@macpro75]

Beau sent me. I've now subscribed. Thank you for your detailed presentation.

[@Private_Idaho_1]

When I was in the military back in the 80s-90s, it was well known that a lot of Russian equipment was modern looking on the outside and old junk on the inside. It was easy for them to get visual intel on the latest aircraft designs and copy them, but difficult to replicate the electronics that are crucial to their successful operation. Also, in a corrupt system of government like Russia has, funding is stolen at every level of bureaucracy until very little is left for it's intented purpose so equipment doesn't get upgraded, troops don't get trained, etc.

[@manxx25]

yea -- also as an international arms dealer, they have to tout, and to some degree do, the high-tech wonder weapons to give potential customers the feels that their systems can be effective against the system a prospective purchaser fears or is likely to encounter. so much marketing is in answering current threats and maintaining the chess-playing mysterious genius pimp brand. Some of their stuff is probably like the us "star wars' icbm defense vapour systems. Good test footage, but even if worked as well as implied, not relevant to most scenarios - mirv and sub-based nuclear missiles will get through -- plus the sheer number of nuclear weapons can defeat. the russian low altitude hypersonic agile cruiseish missiles at mach 7 - mach 9 sound scary - they are, but guidance and agility are questionable- not a big deal for nuclear, of course, but a big deal for a china that is developing hypersonic aircraft carrier killer. and based on what we've seen so far, they don't seem to be doing combined arms/coordination. Obviously the lack of (detectible) evidence of sophisticated encrypted communications - assuming the unencrypted stuff detected thus far is not red herring decoy - is telling. from a layman's perspective, the invasion looked a lot more like flex theater than a realistic plan to achieve their stated objectives. It also looks like a showcase of ruthless determination that signals that they will, in fact, "go there." If ukraine comes out of this semi-intact, we owe them a lot. they paid with lives and infrastructure to expose the weaknesses and gaps in rus mil and tactical system readiness and thinking. in spite of the sh:tty (from my perspective) elements in ukrainian leadership (as if those types of bvtth0les and that type of thinking are not present in most governments), we owe them a couple of marshall plans. I think we are still indebted for their actions with nuclear arsenal as agreed in budapest memo.

[@BManStan1991]

So basically my home state of California. I'm making a joke, but it is quite bad here as well. Surely not as bad as in Russia tho.

[@acrow5]

It reminds me of the fear around the MiG 25, seeing the outside design of the fighter terrorised the West, that the Russians had made a superior aerial fighter than anything America had, and that America was now playing catch up. And then a Soviet pilot defected with his MiG 25 and the awe and fear vanished. Suddenly the incompetence of the Russian construction was made known. How many concessions Russia had to make to build this thing. And that it wasn’t an air superiority fighter but merely an interceptor. Fast sure, but it’s max speed was severely limited otherwise it would literally melt itself. It seems Russia had inherited that. Equipment is terrifying to look at, but hilariously outperformed by western equivalents.

[@IronWarhorsesFun]

@@manxx25 i would really like to compare notes from Russia in Ukraine to Russia in Syria where by all accounts they did a much better job.

[@IronWarhorsesFun]

@@acrow5 aaaaand it worked for 10 years LOL. frankly i think the Mig-25 did its job of scaring the shit out of the west and making them wonder WTF THAT MACH 2.5 JET IS???

[@richardmeyeroff7397]

As an amateur historian and someone who spent a tour in Vietnam, this is one of the best evaluations of the mistakes and correct actions made.

[@44jimcordell31]

Thank you so much! I love that an Ohio truck driver can understand what you are communicating.

[@nutterz641]

Wow... this video has aged extremely well. Well done.

[@abiku2923]

I can't believe this isn't his specialty! I think he has found his calling

[@brandonshane8321]

@@abiku2923 I think it IS his specialty. He mentioned in this video that he doesn't like talking about his day job on youtube... implying that this video represents his day job. He's also mentioned on one of his other war videos that he will never do a video examining the Australian military, presumably becuase he's contract/service bound NOT to discuss what he knows about his actual job in any way. My best guess is he's a data analyst at a military consultants firm in Australia, either advising the actual Australian goverment, or perhaps for a goverment contractor who needs to predict what the Ausie's might want to invest to prototype capability the goverment might be interested in. He also travels a lot, so he could just straight up be in the Ausie military.

[@IrishCaesar]

Every once in a while i make a pilgrimage back to the old Perun. Still excellent

[@KolyaUrtz]

When you see russians owning your NATO cowards at the front you come here to cope. Lmao, classic Russophobe tactic. Drowning yourself in fantasy to numb the pain.

[@bmacdoug]

So you usually blog about video gaming, but you just paused for a moment and produced an incredibly insightful and cogent analysis of the military strategy surrounding the Russia-Ukraine situation? It's somewhat mind boggling. Thank-you for your logical and rational approach and for pointing out that the Russian's apparent failure in the Ukraine points to a level of military incompetence that is almost incomprehensible.

[@JCShadow0202]

“This is a channel that talks about video games” Been watching this channel for a little over a year now, the quality of research and in depth analysis made me assume this guy was a professor at some military academy, absolutely incredible

[@hanzzel6086]

As I understand it, this (and his "new" gaming) channel isn't his primary income source, he has an actual career. Likely in either the defense or economic industries, but we don't know as hw likes to keep his private life, well, private

[@ArnfinnRian]

I went back after I saw Peruns interview with Jake Bro. I was lucky! I found this vid early and clung on like a parasite. And I have watched just about every hour long entry he put up since then. It has been enlightening, frightening and tear inducing to watch this guy go from a gamer like me to a reporter on war and it's atrocities. I can't thank you enough!

[@thomaslove6494]

I'm right there with you... I somehow got recommended this video a few days after it came out..... Obviously subscribed... And have watched every single video as it comes out since.... I remember when he thought he needed to cut his videos down to 30 minutes... I was like "please don't".... I guess the community feedback was the same because thankfully he never did...

[@chrisw4955]

Perun, this video has aged remarkably well. Congratulations!

[@VaucluseVanguard]

Still serving after 34 years and have a star on the car - great presentation as others have said is excellent. Would go down well at in your country at Weston Creek. Oh, and after a couple of months more knowledge, your analysis 100% still hold water. One small correction, is while a lot of support came from Europe when you put this together, that does not include any of the major western powers except the UK. Germany, France, Italy and Spain have not really come to the party yet.

[@luigilain5692]

two years later, it's incredible how well this video aged. the only commentator that i know who made accurate predictions. in particular, the first to warn that the war could be long if russia decided to escalate.

[@marvinegreen]

65 days in and still a spot-on analysis.

[@headoverheels88]

Came here to say exactly that.

[@jamielonsdale3018]

Over 5 months in, still spot-on. The point about the Navy being an expensive way to launch cruise missiles is especially hilarious after Moskva.

[@xWarLegendx]

@@jamielonsdale3018 Moskava was responsible mainly for air defense not land attack. Thts Y aftr her death, the Navy has been further from Ukrainian shores and snake island Caz of Neptune and harpoon ASM of Ukraine.

[@bigtyesmo]

As a slightly overweight, middle aged dad, who plays Nerf with his kids, I feel eminently qualified to critique this video. Can say, it was bloody good! Was surprised, and then quite oddly proud, to note you were Australian. Hopefully where-ever you are working in government, someone is listening to what you recommend. Really well thought through, have watched you're other analysis too. Tragic for the people of Ukraine, but your break down and your other videos have me hoping they can win this now.

[@BeckerSendsIt]

It's odd watching this war unfold. Spent 5 years studying Russian Combat power and tactics from the platoon all the way to the strategic echelons. We always considered Russia the true Peer threat. Their infantry tactics are piss poor, their SEAD is ineffective, their top down leadership is more of a hinderance than we thought. They don't even use their BTGs according to their own doctrine. It's like they are making it up as they go... Its pathetic.

[@BeckerSendsIt]

To add onto this, even their Army level movements don't line up with how they behaved historically. You should be seeing Corps recon 72-48 hours ahead of the main body. They just sent them in all at once.

[@MsZeeZed]

After 10 yrs demonising Ukrainian democracy the Russian government seemed to believe its own propaganda: The president is unpopular Democracy is weak, Real Ukrainians would welcome them, The EU post-brexit & Covid-19 is leaderless and divided, UK is disengaged & greedy, US doesn’t want another war, So just: Send the 331 to police “Kiev”, Have a real government in “Kharkov”, Be invited to protect Donbas while you’re running the UN Security Council. A real cakewalk. No wonder those smug yes-men heading the SVR, Army & Defence ministry got house arrest.

[@je-freenorman7787]

Its not a real war Word war 2 was also a phony war This one is just a distraction

[@je-freenorman7787]

Curious did you ever notice that its all part of the Holy Roman Empire?

[@mandaloretheproud6622]

@Alan Lewis Soviet horde tactics is a myth that was widely spread by formed Nazi officers looking to excuse their failures. The Soviets did not just throw waves of soldiers at their enemies, and they did have their own doctrine that was well though out. Sure, during parts of Barbarossa the Soviets had incredibly poor performance (even times when horde tactics might be an accurate descriptor), but the Soviets didn't win because they stuck to those horrific tactics, those tactics would hinder them and the Soviets were not stupid enough to just throw people at the enemy. They may have had a manpower advantage, but doing that would bleed them dry, so that's why for the most part they didn't do that.

[@balham456]

A lot has changed in a year: Perun is no longer just a gamer - he’s an outstanding observer and commentator.

[@KyleInOklahoma]

*My wife & children talked & we told the Ukrainian embassy we can house 3 families/groups if they come & need help. We do have a dozen cabins usually used by summer staff & families who come to spend time with their horses which are kept in our stables & they camp here/use a cabin so they can make a vacation out of it. I would give all 12 but to keep my ranch operating as a working ranch with a campground for customers, we need 9 cabins. So I think we could help some people & if they're allowed work I know they would just love it here & stay as long as they need or want to. I'm real proud of our children for stepping up to help.* 💙💛✊Slava Ukraini - Viva Cristo Rey👑

[@gregortidholm]

This was extremely insightful! This is the kind of nuance that a lot of other media outlets need. Thank you for sharing this!

[@deebo3483]

I'm not a brilliant tactician by any means (as far as I know) but as a former U.S. Army Infantryman, you put together an incredibly well versed and thoughtful presentation. You covered a wide range of depth within the subject, and prove you don't necessarily need to have been in the military to have a firm grasp on military operations. Subscribed.

[@aksmex2576]

Military generals in history have shown that they learn on the go. I wouldn't be surprised if most of the Russian generals got the job based on loyalty rather than merit. They are learning based on go in Ukraine, learning the hard way.

[@kane-111]

@@aksmex2576 Funny, as it reminds of me of the soviet invasion on Finland lol. If my information serves me well, although there was a slew of other problems, the main issue was the incompetence of the generals after the purge and they had to learn then and there.

[@davidandrews4818]

I am watching this for the first time in 8/23. I think it still stands the test of time!

[@mikegould6590]

This was a clear, easily understandable, and brilliant dissection of the conflict at hand.

[@rbfishcs123]

I hear his lips smack around when he talks :( but otherwise a great vid

[@je-freenorman7787]

Lies all lies Its a scam War is always a racket Government is setting you up

[@Jesse_359]

Glad you mentioned the key fact that a defending country moving to total mobilization can generally field a LOT more soldiers than their attackers, often quite rapidly, especially when their equipping and to some degree training can be outsourced to allies which is certainly the case in Ukraine. And needless to say these defender's motivation is much higher than their attackers.

[@meilinchan7314]

Still it remains to be seen just how useful NATO has been on the ground. This is a sort of conflict NATO has been preparing for, for decades. They had 80 years or so.

[@FreedomForever2010]

@@meilinchan7314 False. NATO has been preparing to defend NATO, and has established infrastructure in NATO nations to that end. Were Ukraine a NATO member, this conflict would have been different from the outset because Ukraine would have had far greater defensive capabilities. NATO is not built to enter an established conflict against a non-member.

[@DanDan-du9mo]

@@FreedomForever2010 NATO is the striking arm of the US, as evidenced by the illegal Iraq invasion. The coup in 2014 Ukraine was the work of the CIA, so NATO has been preparing for this war for a long time by encouraging Ukraine into a war it cannot win with promises of help it will never get.

[@vicenteasaro1823]

@@DanDan-du9mo Damn, good point on the Iraqi War.

[@sneakybush2662]

@@DanDan-du9mo Don't say Ukraine can't win. Russia got BTFO'd by Finland when the USSR invaded. The extreme cold weather was a huge factor in that battle. I will say that it list likely Ukraine will win, but it's not impossible.

[@renardrougesombre]

The most intelligent, sophisticated and straight logical strategical analysis which gives a whole new PoV for this and it supports my opinion that this war has the capability to disruptly change the political and military situation worldwide. And maybe in a very positive way.

[@user936]

Someone should send this to Putin. Eight years ago.

[@thomasneedham1224]

How?

[@renardrougesombre]

@@thomasneedham1224 As I assume you want to know how there's a positive outcome. So first off if this will really work out its not longer expensive and up to superpower states to possess and use weapons which can dominate the battlegrounds. This will one one hand prevent that non-nuclear military threats can be used in the way they use it today. This can lead to rigid but cost effective defense and smaller states or groups of states can evade the need to join major defensive alliances which politics they don't (fully) support. This can lead to a multipolar world and massive savings in future military budgets. Other hands the obvious helplessness of the old system in this way too could leed to radical changes in political landscape. Unfortunately in both directions. To support my argument watch Saudi-Arabia which is bombarded by a bunch of stone age warriors with drones and rockets, not stones and sticks. I doubt they Sauds missed any military equipment you can buy for money but they get rekt anyway...

[@LunaticWithALicense]

I'm certain in world war II if people could have been told that the war will lead to positive consequences that are long-term, would likely be hard to believe at that moment. I'm praying that after this conflict is over that humanity once again learns from it and we grow together as a species.

[@CloneDAnon]

*This is pure Ukrainian propaganda and disinformation.* The 0:01 picture illustrates everything wrong with propagandists like these perfectly, "captured Russian T80's being transported by the help of local companies"...shows Ukrainian T64 tanks with Ukrainian flags on them...

[@wulv3117]

You are brilliant. I have not seen any of your video game content. But golly sir-- This breakdown is just incredible. I could watch your videos all day long order to educate myself. Just really nicely done. When you see greatness - it's nice to be recognized. Go AUS - as an United States citizen - we love you and we have your back.

[@bubz4994]

Do you regularly give talks and presentations in a professional capacity? This was very well done. Clearly outlined everything and executed it well. The Russian military should take notes! I was really pessimistic about the Ukrainian capability but I am eating my words. They have far exceeded my expectations and I owe them an apology for ever doubting their resolve. Those special forces soldiers are tough cats.

[@chimeraelite]

Tbh doing KZbin well and concisely can lend experience. Not to mention of he covers video games that often have a great deal of depth, that translates to some extent too. He understands that this conflict is complicated and actually takes the time to look through those different factors and covers what he can back up and tells us when he's spitballing.

[@WhatWillYouFind]

PERUN can thank YOUR COMMENT for the sub XD

[@poisonvolkswagon9431]

One big point that should be discussed is the widespread corruption in Russia's goverment which is effectly more similar to a regime. Generals are corrupt like most of Putin's entourage and that is quite a common features in dictatorial regimes. The main guy (Putin) does not accept views that are considered negative, if such views appear, you basically dissapear in one or another. That creates a delusional circle of individuals that surround him and keep telling him only good news about pretty much everything. This has an implication in war as well. When they were preparing for the invasion, they started running forecasts and predictions on the effect of sanctions (as you would normally do) but if the outcome of those predictions is negative then it would not have to be reported for the aformentioned reasons. Same happens with the military, the general can' t go to Putin and tell him that they don't have rations for the soldiers or they will encounter logistical problems. They have to pretend and lie to him so that he doesn't get mad at them and throws them out of the bus. It's insane how much one individual can fuck up the whole structure for mainly sarcisistic reasons. Now, the whole world knows that they have fucked up massively but they can't stop and many more lives will be lost in this useless war.

[@cameronpatterson130]

This is true of every military

[@scratchy996]

It's only a matter of time until their nukes start blowing up in their silos, because of poor maintenance.

[@visassess8607]

He made an entire section pretty much covering that

[@peterwallace8441]

Russia is a corrupt society from top to bottom. That doesn't make them bad people or stupid. Decisions that look sensless when looked at from a liberal democratic perspective are sensible and pragmatic in a corrupt society. The problem is that it adds enormous friction to every activity. Corruption inevitably generates incompetent outcomes. An excellent analysis in this video by the way.

[@hueban1643]

@@cameronpatterson130 the difference is for example the us general doesnt really fear getting assasinated for telling the president he made a stupid decision

[@rodionzakharov4575]

First of all, this video is simply great. It holds up even after a year after being uploaded. Also, went to read comments as far back as 9 months… oh my! How many “you are wrong, Russia is winning!” comments there were. I would give this at least 1000 thumbs ups if I could.

[@JamesRobilliard]

Still holds up! Well done!

[@Contrajoe]

"Russia built the wrong military for the job" Very well said. This may be *the best* presentation on the topic.

[@David.C01552]

While Ukraine build a specialized military for the exact purpose to fight Russia.

[@LowVoltage_FPV]

Unfortunately this is a common occurrence. Militaries build their weapons to fight the war they have just been in. The same happened before the 1st and second world wars. Also in any number of other wars. However Russia has known that they would be engaged in a war in the countryside much like Ukraine. Also NATO was also prepared for a war in a similar environment. However NATO and specifically the US has been engaged in wars in much different geographic environments such as the deserts of the middle east and the jungles of south east. The US has built up a military who's task was to project power into many different areas of the world. However the Russians have always expected to fight in the areas between Berlin and Moscow. The reason that Russia has been doing so poorly isn't a reflection of the equipments design or the theory of war. The problem has been in the actual usage of the equipment and the implementation of the theories. The equipment is deteriorated due to lack of maintenance and the troops are under trained. Both are a result of the lack of money. Putin probably felt that this was the last opportunity to make use of the military that he has because it will continue to deteriorate due to lack of money.

[@David.C01552]

@@LowVoltage_FPV Ukraine was in a large re arming campaign {funded by NATO ofc) so it was now or never.Russians thought that they still have the edge which in the future would have evened out or turned against them, turned out they already lost their edge. Poland was also in a massive re arming phase, doubling their army.So Russia was losing regional dominance.

[@jasonmeador7861]

I guess they built this military to fight the past!!

[@willl7780]

but russia is winning hands down lol...wierd

[@tedferkin]

This is probably posted to late to get notice, but my history of military procurement. I worked for the UK Ministry of Defence a number of years ago. When I joined a project to procure a new system, it was ten years in to a ten year project, with an estimated 10 more years of development, because the MoD is so great as holding down it's requirements and sticking to them and not asking for the kitchen sink. It was a new modern system to replace an ageing system that they knew needed replacing well over 10 years ago. It was going to be costly, but wanted to get it's money back, the defence contractors knew they had to be involved, the project was huge, they could not fail to get some of the pie, or they would no longer exist. So sensibly they created a consortium, which was the only bidder...... Anyway it was a bit of a farce, there was the scientific lead from the MoDs research arm (DERA, now Qinetiq), the project manager from the MoD who was actually a bean counter told to cut costs, and the technical lead from the consortium who was actually a sales director told to maximise profits. As you can imagine things were not going well, to plan and costs were spiralling. As it was I left the project 3 years later, and they still had an estimated 10 years left of development. From what I heard (after I left the MoD), they whole lot was thrown in the bin and started again and lowered the expectations, but an increased cost because it was a change in contract..... TL:DR Military procurement is a long process of competing objectives, with no real political support until it's needed yesterday.

[@CruelestChris]

@@PopDivTweet The movie was also a pack of lies, I would suggest you check out Lazerpig's video on the subject.

[@madiantin]

This is the first video of yours I've ever seen, and it was absolutely fascinating. The fact that this video was made over a month ago and was absolutely spot on is amazing. Please, PLEASE make more. I've just had a look to see if you've made more...and you have. OH THANK GOODNESS! Solid information without bias - so so thankful for you!

[@philblum1496]

Wow, 13 months later and this analysis still stands up exceedingly well. Thank you.

[@mkfathers]

This was a brilliant discussion of the situation in Ukraine. You have analysed the situation from both sides and given your viewer a better understanding of this horrible war. I normally watch your channel for the fun games that you design and show but this video had me glued to the screen often nodding at your comments. Thank you and I hope that this is seen by many people.

[@nightman890]

This is my first video I've watched on this channel and I am thinking it would be crime not to beg for more like this in the future. It's amazing how a guy who describes himself as merely a gamer can put out something so insightful, it makes multibillion dollar media companies look like amateurs.

[@tistelnilsson]

@@nightman890 First here too. Very impressed.

[@Raydude2301]

Same

[@chrisbrodbeck1961]

They are people, they are starving to death, do something please! My opinion is that russia has stomped around the globe helping countries like Vietnam. Its absolutely hypocritical that they consider helping the Ukraine as a nuke event when they sent weapons by the ton to Nam...USA lost over 50,000 People there, I remember seeing the names every night for years and years. I just have a extreme hatred for anything russian at the moment. No one is was or wants to attack Russia. they just want to go back to USSR if you're not growing theirs a problem...so here we are, huge land grab by a chest thumper...

[@sixstringedthing]

There's so many good reasons to revisit this video aside from how much the audio quality has improved over the past year and a half of the 3-day Special Military Operation.

[@ashscott6068]

Yeah, to find comments posted by pro-ruZZians a year and a half ago, like: "You watch! ruZZia is saving thee good stuff for later! They will win before the end of summer! Heil Putler!" :D

[@Green__one]

"I'm not a military strategist" proceeds to out strategize one of the world's leading military superpowers...

[@RipOffProductionsLLC]

That's mostly due to Russian higher ups being full of Yes-Men than anything even approaching merit.

[@jbreitz87]

@@RipOffProductionsLLC What hilarious is if this guy could tell Putin this is how he needs to restructure his military about 10 years back they probably could have captured Kiev in 3 days.

[@vejet]

@@jbreitz87 Yeah but then they wouldn't have had as many shiny showboat projects to show off

[@JoeOvercoat]

Perhaps he stayed at a Hotel 8 last night.

[@DukeOfTwist]

@@vejet Or Super yachts

[@aplacecalledfear]

19.12. 2022. An insightful look at the first week of this insanity. Excellent work indeed. And an appropriate name as well. I believe Ukraine shall prevail