Russia has been using drones and guided bombs to target Ukrainian troops in an effort to exploit Ukraine’s weaknesses, including its limited air defense systems and fewer fighter jets compared to Russia.
Russia has increased aerial attacks in the Zaporizhzhia region using self-detonating attack drones and guided bombs modified for higher accuracy, posing a constant threat to Ukrainian forces.
The use of these air threats has complicated Ukraine’s counteroffensive in the Zaporizhzhia region, which is strategically important for cutting supply lines from Crimea. While Ukrainian forces have made gains, the progress has been slow, raising concerns that their chances of dealing a decisive blow to Russia before winter are diminishing.
Russia uses attack drones called Lancets to target Ukrainian vehicles, while modified airplane bombs with GPS guidance and wings are used to hit command posts. Both weapons have had varying success in hitting their targets.
The heavy construction of the airplane bombs makes them difficult to intercept with air defense missiles. Russia’s large stockpile of these bombs makes them a significant challenge to counter.
Lancets, with their camera and surveillance drones, are increasingly used by Russia to target Ukrainian forces. The precision control of the drones allows operators to steer directly into vulnerable parts of the target, causing damage.
Ukrainian forces have adapted to the increased drone attacks by implementing defensive measures such as rolling nets and chain-link fences around critical systems. Electronic jamming is also used as a defensive option.
The modifications to the Russian bombs have given them a significant advantage over Ukrainian air defenses. These gliding bombs are difficult to intercept due to their short flight time and lack of guidance.
The increased reliance on drones and guided bombs is evidence of how Russian and Ukrainian tactics have evolved during the conflict. This trend is expected to continue in the future.
Ukrainian soldiers have expressed concerns about the devastating impact of the guided bombs, which can destroy entire areas of concealment relied upon by both sides in the flat open fields of the region.
The lack of aviation support and overtaxed air defense systems pose challenges for Ukrainian forces in countering the Russian attacks. The delay in receiving fighter jets further exacerbates the situation.
