Ukraine has warned that Russia is planning to manufacture as many as 120,000 “cheap and devastating” glide bombs, dramatically increasing Moscow's strike capability in the ongoing conflict. The claim highlights growing concerns over Russia’s evolving battlefield tactics and expanding weapons production.
According to Ukrainian officials, Russia has significantly scaled up its arms manufacturing capacity, focusing on low-cost aerial weapons capable of causing large-scale destruction with precision guidance.
What Are Glide Bombs and Why Are They Dangerous?
Glide bombs are unguided or semi-guided aerial bombs retrofitted with wings, allowing them to travel long distances after being released from aircraft. They:
Can strike deep into enemy territory
Are difficult to intercept
Carry heavy explosive payloads
Are much cheaper to produce than missiles
Can be launched without exposing aircraft to air defense systems
Ukraine describes these weapons as “devastating” due to their destructive potential and affordability.
Ukraine’s Warning to Allies
Ukrainian officials have urged Western partners to accelerate the supply of:
Air defense systems
Advanced radar networks
Counter-drone and anti-missile technologies
They argue that Russia’s mass production of glide bombs could overwhelm Ukrainian defenses and change the dynamics of frontline battles.
Why Russia Is Focusing on Glide Bomb Production
Analysts say Russia’s strategy reflects several advantages:
✔ Low cost, high impact
Glide bombs are far cheaper than cruise or ballistic missiles.
✔ Ease of mass production
Factory lines can be rapidly adapted to produce guided kits for existing bomb stockpiles.
✔ Long-range capabilities
Glide kits allow bombs to travel 20–70 km, depending on altitude and launch method.
✔ Tactical use across frontlines
Russia has used glide bombs extensively in eastern and southern Ukraine to break defensive fortifications.
Impact on the Battlefield
If Russia successfully produces 120,000 glide bombs, the effects on the war could be significant:
Increased threat to urban centres
Heavy damage to Ukrainian military positions
Greater strain on Ukraine’s air defence systems
Escalation in frontline intensity
Higher civilian risk in contested regions
Ukrainian forces have already reported substantial destruction from these strikes in recent months.
Global Concern Over Escalation
Western defense analysts and NATO members are closely monitoring the situation, with fears that mass-produced glide bombs could become a central weapon in Russia’s strategy for 2025 and beyond.
The development may also prompt:
Increased military spending
Faster arms deliveries to Ukraine
Expanded sanctions targeting Russia’s defense industry
FAQs
Q1. How many glide bombs is Russia planning to produce?
Up to 120,000, according to Ukraine.
Q2. Why are glide bombs considered dangerous?
They are cheap, destructive, long-range and hard to intercept.
Q3. What does Ukraine want from allies?
More air defense systems and advanced protective technologies.
Q4. How might this change the war?
It could intensify attacks, overwhelm defenses and increase civilian vulnerability.
Q5. Has Russia confirmed the production?
No confirmation from Moscow has been reported so far.
Published on : 15th November
Published by : SMITA
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Source Credit: Reuters