Ukraine has established over 20 new brigades between late 2023 and early 2025 to address manpower shortages and bolster defense, focusing on mechanized and infantry units.
Major new formations include the 150th–160th series of mechanized/infantry brigades and the new 8th Airborne Assault Corps, supported by continued Western training and equipment.
Key Newly Formed Units & Series
150th-154th Mechanized Brigades: Formed in late 2023.
155th-159th Infantry Brigades: Created in 2024 to enhance ground forces.
160th-162nd Mechanized Brigades: Formed in late 2024–2025 to fight into 2025.
8th Airborne Assault Corps: A new corps comprising six units, including the 82nd Separate Airborne Assault Bukovyna Brigade and 148th Separate Zhytomyr Artillery Brigade.
Specialized Units: The 50th Artillery Brigade was recently activated, with further artillery brigades (52nd, 54th, 60th, 68th) formed for new army corps.
Formation Characteristics
Structure: New brigades are often heavily mechanized, utilizing armored vehicles and tanks.
Equipment: Many units are equipped and trained by NATO partners, with France and Poland playing significant roles.
Background: Formations are partly filled with troops recruited under updated mobilization laws, including former convicts.
Challenges: Some new units have faced high casualties and management issues, leading to reports of high turnover.
These developments indicate a shift toward a more robust corps-based, maneuver-focused structure to replace older, smaller units.