As the bitter cold of winter settles in and average temperatures range between -4.8 and 2°C, both Ukrainian and Russian troops are preparing for a new phase of the war.
Freezing temperatures, which can sometimes drop as low as -20°C, can hamper the performance of weapons and equipment. Ammunition can lose responsiveness and accuracy, meaning more is required. Wear and tear of equipment increases and battery life decreases, leading to increased maintenance, which is also more difficult in wintertime.
Drones, especially smaller ones such as the DJI Mavic series which Ukrainian troops are using, become harder to operate in low temperatures and wind or snow, reducing surveillance capabilities.