44th Mechanized Brigade

44th Mechanized Brigade is a unit of the Ukrainian Ground Forces. It was formed in 2023 in anticipation for the, then, upcoming Ukrianian summer counteroffensive towards Melitopol and other areas across the frontline. The unit was formed on the basis of the mobilization reserve of the 72nd Mechanized Brigade.

It received training in Poland, where it also received the majority of its equipment. The first battalion was supplied with Polish BMP-1’s, while the second and third battalions were equipped with Rosomak infantry fighting vehicles. Additionally, the tank battalion of the brigade was the first military unit of the Ukraine’s Armed Forces to receive Leopard 1A5 tanks.

On August 9, 2023, the commander of the brigade’s 3rd Mechanized Battalion, Olkesiy Sheludko, was killed near the city of Bakhmut.

As part of the corps reformation within the Ukrainian Defense Forces, the brigade was integrated as part of the 19th Army Corps of the Ukrainian Ground Forces.

Insignia

The insignia shows a chevron with a green border and a split canvas, with a striking deep blue on the left side, and black on the right. The core features a Cossack cross at the peak of the insignia, and below it depicts a crossed Cossack saber and arrow.