Ukraine’s ‘Nike’ defends Kherson against Russian forces

File Source: NPR
A group of Ukrainian soldiers have prepared for another raid against Russian positions. Under the cover of a forested hill, they unveil their formidable weapon, a Soviet-era BMP-1TS armored vehicle dubbed “Nike,” after the Greek goddess of victory.
“It’s performing really well,” said Grizzly, the unit leader, referring to the vehicle’s modernized cannon, navigation, and targeting systems. “Very fast and maneuverable,” he added, showcasing the updated weapon’s effectiveness in their hit-and-run operations.
The soldiers, part of the 1st Battalion of the 40th Coastal Defense Brigade, form a crucial part of Ukraine’s defense against Russian advances, particularly around the port city of Kherson. Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has acknowledged the growing difficulties of maintaining control, calling the situation “extremely, extremely difficult and challenging.”
The strategic importance of Kherson, liberated by Ukraine in November 2022, cannot be overstated. With at least 60,000 civilians remaining, the city remains a daily target for Russian artillery and drones. “Since the first day of this year alone, the enemy has attacked the region about 650 times,” said Oleksandr Prokudin, head of Kherson’s regional military government.
Despite frequent clashes for control of islands in the Dnipro, Russian forces have yet to deploy the necessary resources to retake Kherson. However, Ukrainian parliament member Roman Kostenko warned that Russia may be preparing to escalate. “We got information that Russia prepares their troops to attack us across the river,” Kostenko said, citing reports of boats and troops training for an assault.
The Ukrainian soldiers defending the river, armed with Nike, are ready for any Russian attempt. Gunner Yurii, whose call sign is Psycho, demonstrated their fast-paced tactics, where shells are loaded and fired quickly, emptying the cannon in under two minutes. “We arrive at the river and we fire… then I tell the driver, ‘Let’s get out of here,’” he explained.
This hit-and-run strategy is designed to disrupt Russian advances while preserving Ukraine’s dwindling experienced forces. “Our job is to destroy the Russians and keep them from advancing and taking more of our territory — and we are getting that done,” said the 1st Battalion commander, Karyi, who at 24, has already been wounded twice in battle.
Despite the challenges, Karyi is confident in his men. “I’m confident in my men, so I’m confident in myself,” he said. As the unit readied Nike for its next mission, the soldiers showed no signs of fear. “Yes, yes, yes,” Yurii responded when asked if they could hold the line. “This is just what we do now,” Grizzly added, emphasizing their unwavering commitment. For them, defending Kherson is not just a mission—it’s their job.