Defense Forces hierarchy under Corps system

As part of the ongoing reformation of the Defense Forces and the shift toward a corps–brigade structure within both the Army and the National Guard, the command is actively disbanding Tactical Groups (TGs) and Operational Tactical Groups (OTUs). MilitaryLand recently reported on the dissolution of Operational Tactical Group Donetsk and Operational Tactical Group Luhansk. This restructuring aims to streamline the command hierarchy by eliminating the intermediate layer between Army leadership and corps formations—a move many hope will enhance coordination and operational efficiency.

Although the number of command bodies is formally being reduced, the corps reform has led to the creation of a new temporary structure—the Grouping of Forces. One such group is already operating in the south: the Defense Forces of Southern Ukraine, which replaced the Operational Strategic Group Tavria in late 2024.

The groupings will serve as frontline extensions of the operational commands, overseeing the corps operating within their respective areas. For example, Operational Command East is expected to establish a Grouping of Forces East (or a similarly named formation) that will be responsible for commanding the 3rd, 9th, and 11th Army Corps. The decision to retain Operational Strategic Groups (OSUV), such as Khortytsia, now seems even more puzzling, as it adds yet another layer to the already complex command hierarchy.

As illustrated in the diagram above, the number of layers in the command hierarchy remains unchanged. Tactical Groups have been replaced by Corps formations, and Operational Tactical Units (OTUs) have been succeeded by Groupings of Forces. The key difference, however—and a significant one—is that corps now have a permanent structure and are directly responsible for the units under their command. However, as MilitaryLand reported recently, the corps have not yet assumed command of their designated brigades and are currently overseeing temporarily assigned units, as the combat situation prevents proper rotations from being carried out.

The four operational commands of the Ground Forces — West, North, South, and East — will continue to focus on broader responsibilities, including manning, training, and ensuring the combat readiness of their assigned units at the corps level, rather than at the brigade or battalion level as is currently the case.

What’s now unfolding—largely out of the spotlight—is that as corps formations assume responsibility for segments of the frontline, operational commands are simultaneously creating groupings of forces and deploying officers to the combat areas. How effective this approach will be remains to be seen.