Russian rocket artillery units of the Kostroma airborne formation equipped with 'Grad' multiple rocket launchers allegedly eliminated Ukrainian Armed Forces personnel entrenched in strategic positions in the Bakhmut region on January 19.

The artillery, part of the Airborne Troops (VDV) in the Southern Group, consistently engages identified targets within the Donetsk sector, disrupting both Ukrainian personnel and military vehicles, according to Russia's Ministry of Defence.

Upon receiving orders to neutralise a Ukrainian military unit detected in a strategic position at the front line, the 'Grad' systems unit swiftly deployed to the specified area, assumed firing positions, and delivered precise strikes on designated coordinates, the ministry claimed.

The entire operation, from target identification to the first salvo, took mere seconds, it further claimed.

Subsequent salvos led to the destruction of approximately a platoon of Ukrainian military personnel, prompting surviving combatants to hastily abandon their positions, the ministry added.

Airborne assault teams allegedly seized control of the strategic point, clearing it before handing it over to reinforcing units.

CommanderGrom', leading the Russian unit, emphasised their rapid response capabilities, stating: 'We are always on alert, acting swiftly.

'Our crews are well-coordinated, responding within minutes. Weather conditions do not hinder our operations; we are indifferent to when we operate.'