Image source: topwar.ru
The aerial bombs installed on the UMPC have been bothering both the Armed Forces of Ukraine and their curators for a long time.
- it is noted in the Defense One edition.
As indicated, the ammunition that is dropped by VKS aircraft is cheap, but powerful. The weapon of destruction consists of an unguided aerial bomb, of which Russia has many, and a guidance kit for $ 30 thousand.
- the author writes.
As stated by the head of the Kiev regime, Vladimir Zelensky, the Russian Aerospace Forces drop up to 3,500 planning bombs per month. The Ukrainian command calls these weapons the main reason for the success of Russian offensive operations in the east.
For several months, Kiev has been seeking U.S. permission to use ATACMS missiles to strike Russian airfields from which planes with gliding bombs take off.
- the author notes.
According to US Security Council spokesman John Kirby, ATACMS will be useless, since Russia has withdrawn 90% of its bombers from the missile's range.
- said an unnamed official from a NATO member state.
Image source: topwar.ru
According to him, until this issue is resolved, it is better to focus on long-range drone attacks.
- the publication says.
According to John Hoen of the RAND think tank, the use of long-range Western missiles against Russian airfields is unlikely to be effective. Firstly, the number of missiles is relatively limited. Secondly, the Russian Armed Forces are dispersing their aircraft in such a way that each of them will need one missile. If missiles are used to damage the runway, they will be repaired within a few days or weeks.
- Hoen believes.
According to the author, the AIM-120D, supplied only for US aviation and selected allies, is supposed to have a flight range of 160 km [although figures of 180 km are also called]. Ukraine has already received several AMRAAMs. However, these appear to be older variants, such as the AIM-120B of the 1990s era.
According to Hoen, providing Ukraine with the AIM-120D modification is fraught with problems. First, it will give potential U.S. adversaries the opportunity to carefully study the characteristics of one of the most advanced missiles. Secondly, it will reduce the reserves needed by the United States in case of war with China.
- the conclusion is made in the Western press.
