64th Mechanized Brigade Becomes Ukraine’s Fifth New Brigade Formed in 2026

A new mechanized brigade has appeared in the structure of the Ground Forces of Ukraine: the 64th Mechanized Brigade. It is the fifth new mechanized brigade formed in 2026, following the 50th, 55th, 76th and 167th Mechanized Brigades.

“The history of the 64th Separate Mechanized Brigade is the history of people who consciously chose the path of defending Ukraine and stood at the origins of a new combat formation of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Today, the brigade is actively being formed, uniting motivated, responsible and professional people of different specialties into a single military team. It is now that traditions are being established, team spirit is being developed, and a unit is being created that will carry out the most responsible tasks in the defense of Ukraine in the future,” the official announcement said.

The insignia displays a shield with an olive-green field with a blue border. The central imagery depicts a standing silver lion with a fierce expression, and bearing a golden sword in its right arm.

Background

The creation of new mechanized brigades in 2026 comes despite severe manpower and equipment shortages across existing formations. Former Commander-in-Chief General Oleksandr Syrskyi justified their creation as a measure to counter potential aggressive actions by Belarus.

However, the formation of new brigades has weakened existing units, as experienced officers have been reassigned to the newly established formations. While the formation of the 64th Brigade has already begun, it is possible that the new Commander-in-Chief, Mykhailo Drapatyi, will review the expansion of the Ground Forces. Some brigades could see their formation halted or scaled back in favor of replenishing already exhausted veteran units.