Ukraine Raises Alarm Over Russia's Glide Bomb Production Plans

Post by : Raina Nasser

Ukraine is sounding the alarm as Russia gears up for a significant escalation in its air campaign by planning to manufacture as many as 120,000 glide bombs this year. This warning comes from a senior Ukrainian intelligence official who emphasized the devastating potential of these weapons that have already caused considerable destruction in frontline regions.

Major General Vadym Skibitskyi, deputy head of Ukraine’s Defence Intelligence, indicated that the count includes both newly manufactured glide bombs and upgraded Soviet-era bombs equipped with modern wings or propulsion systems. While Reuters has been unable to independently verify this production target, the estimate signifies a notable increase in Moscow's production abilities since the onset of the full-scale invasion in 2022.

Glide bombs have become critical to Russia's military operations. Unlike advanced missiles, these bombs require simpler guidance systems, making them cheaper and easier to produce in bulk. When released from fighter jets operating behind enemy lines, these bombs extend their wings and travel extensive distances, striking Ukrainian towns without exposing planes to air defenses. Their substantial payloads can demolish buildings and devastate infrastructure.

Ukrainian sources report that Russian forces are currently deploying between 200 to 250 glide bombs daily, a marked increase from prior figures. Skibitskyi described this production scale as “enormous,” posing an escalating threat that Kyiv must address promptly.

A particular concern is Russia’s new long-range glide bomb, capable of reaching distances of up to 200 kilometers (125 miles) from its launching point, surpassing previous ranges. Reports suggest that Russia aims to produce about 500 of these extended-range bombs by year's end, with modifications possibly allowing some models to reach up to 400 kilometers, thus endangering more urban areas.

Recent airstrikes in Mykolaiv, Poltava, and Odesa highlight the extensive reach of these weapons, demonstrating Russia's ability to hit civilian targets far removed from active combat zones.

Although Russia's defense ministry did not respond to the intelligence assessment, Moscow has consistently refuted claims of targeting civilians, despite ample evidence of the contrary, including numerous civilian casualties since the war began.

In addition to glide bombs, Skibitskyi noted the swift progress of Russia's drone program, predicting around 70,000 long-range drones being produced this year, including 30,000 Shahed drones, which are crucial to recent assaults on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. He warned that Russia aims to amplify pressure on Ukraine in anticipation of winter, hoping to weaken Kyiv's position in any forthcoming peace negotiations.

Skibitskyi addressed the growing military ties between Russia and North Korea, noting that Pyongyang has sent 6.5 million artillery shells to Russia since 2023, albeit with a slowdown in shipments as their reserves dwindle. Many shells are reportedly in such poor condition that they require refurbishment in Russian facilities. Moreover, North Korea is developing its own attack drones based on insights gained from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

With Russia drastically increasing its arsenal of bombs, drones, and international alliances, Ukrainian officials cautioned that the coming months may usher in intensified destruction, particularly for civilians situated away from combat areas. Ukraine emphasizes the urgent need for advanced air defense systems, broader international support, and timely initiatives to counter what may become the conflict's most perilous phase.