The War for Ukraine

"While the book covers many aspects of the war, its focus is on observations about what can be learned by government and military institutions in Ukraine, Europe, and beyond. Ryan argues convincingly that war, the most destructive human endeavor yet devised, is also a complex learning opportunity for military institutions. Thus, he proposes that there are six guidelines that might be useful in a professional, strategic approach to learning and adaptation. In observing the war and analyzing its many lessons, Western military institutions will also have to assess what other potential adversaries might learn from it. China has previously demonstrated a deep capacity for learning and change, given the right political and strategic impetus. As with previous Western conflicts, it is highly likely that Chinese analysts will explore the war in Ukraine for its many relevant lessons. In closing, readers should remember that while this book can only cover part of the war, there are a myriad of old and new observations to be drawn from it. These observations should inform Western military and national security institutions as they attempt to deter—and prepare for—conflicts against the authoritarian powers. The War for Ukraine: Strategy and Adaptation Under Fire earns a prestigious 4 out of 4 trench coats.”—The Cipher Brief

“Mick Ryan’s book is a timely and astute examination of how the different patterns of leadership, strategy, and organizational culture of Russia and Ukraine shaped the conflict thus far and affected the ability of their militaries to adapt to a rapidly changing battlefield. Perhaps the most poignant lesson of all is that large-scale industrial war in Europe is back, offering new grim data for the study of the future of warfare.”—Mariana Budjeryn, Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, Harvard Kennedy School

"In the aftermath of Russia’s brutal, unprovoked and illegal invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Mick Ryan quickly emerged as one of the war’s essential analysts. Mick brings to bear his extensive command experience and historical understanding to explain the strategies employed by both Moscow and Kyiv, and how they have adapted these strategies. He draws out the lessons which military planners should take from this conflict. Through it all, he never loses his moral compass or his sense of outrage at Russia’s behaviour. I commend Mick Ryan’s book to anyone wishing to understand the war in Ukraine and its implications for warfare in the twenty-first century."—Michael Fullilove, Executive Director, Lowy Institute

"Mick Ryan knows war. As a student, a professor, and a practitioner, he imparts the horrors of Ukraine with brutal but objective truth. From the human to the technological, the tactical to the strategic, this book explores key lessons (identified but not necessarily learned!) from this war with humility. Ryan draws critical insights on how we should think about aggression, vulnerability, what drives and constitutes strategy, and what adaptation really means on the battlefield. This is a must read for all of society; our citizens, politicians, national security leaders, war planners, war fighters, and the industries that supports them. Loved the critical distinction between lessons and lessons learned! SO IMPORTANT."—Rebecca Shrimpton, Director, Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI)

"This wonderful book shows Mick Ryan's excellence as a teacher of military strategy and adaptation in warfare. He's observed carefully and often at close range the choices Ukraine and Russia have made to achieve their objectives in the war.  I hope it will be required reading in staff and war colleges, as well as garnering a wide public readership."—Kori Schak