Battle Of Hostomel

The Battle of Hostomel, which took place from February 24 to March 2, 2022, was a critical early engagement in the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Hostomel, a small town located approximately 20 kilometers northwest of Kyiv, was strategically important due to its Antonov Airport, one of the largest cargo airports in Europe. The Russian plan aimed to capture this airport to establish a foothold near the Ukrainian capital and facilitate further military operations. The attack began with a large-scale airborne operation involving Russian VDV (Airborne) troops who landed at the airport in the early hours of February 24. 

Initially, the Russian forces achieved some success, seizing parts of the airport and engaging Ukrainian defenders in heavy combat. The Russians hoped to quickly consolidate their control and use the airport as a launch point for a broader assault on Kyiv. However, the Ukrainian response was swift and determined. Ukrainian forces, including elite units, local defense militias, and territorial defense battalions, mobilized rapidly to counter the invasion. Utilizing their knowledge of the local terrain and leveraging defensive positions, the Ukrainians engaged in fierce and chaotic combat with the invaders.

Russian Cassualties On Top Of BMD-2

Airborne Vehicle

The battle saw intense urban warfare and brutal clashes, with both sides suffering significant casualties. Ukrainian forces employed a variety of tactics to disrupt the Russian advance, including artillery strikes, anti-aircraft fire, and counterattacks. One key aspect of the battle was the Ukrainian use of their own anti-tank and anti-aircraft systems, which proved highly effective in repelling Russian advances and damaging their equipment.

Damaged Russian BMD-4,Stuck On A

Concrete Barrier

 

By March 2, Ukrainian forces had managed to repel the Russian troops from the airport and surrounding areas, reclaiming control of Hostomel. This battle marked a crucial turning point early in the conflict, as it not only thwarted the immediate Russian objectives but also demonstrated Ukraine's resilience and ability to defend its territory effectively. The failure to secure Hostomel Airport forced the Russian military to reassess their strategy and contributed to the broader challenges faced by Russian forces in their campaign to capture Kyiv. The battle underscored the tenacity of Ukrainian resistance and foreshadowed the protracted and intense nature of the conflict that would unfold over the following months.

Ukranian Victory In Hostomel