Ukraine Says It Used US-Made Glide Bombs Against Russia

Ukraine Says It Eliminated 40 Russian Troops With US Glide Bombs

Ukraine says it has hit Russian troops using US-made glide bombs, marking a significant development in the ongoing conflict.

At a Glance

Ukrainian forces reportedly used US-made GBU-39 glide bombs to target Russian troops in the Kursk region.
The strike hit a UAV control point, electronic warfare unit, equipment, and up to 40 Russian servicemen.
Ukraine now controls 93 settlements in the Kursk region, creating a buffer zone.
The attack demonstrates Ukraine’s innovative use of Western military aid.
Ongoing conflicts continue to develop on both sides of the Ukraine-Russia border.

Ukraine’s Precision Strike in Kursk

In a recent development, Ukrainian forces have reportedly used US-made glide bombs to eliminate up to 40 Russian troops in the Kursk region. The Ukrainian Air Force commander, Nikolai Oleshchuk, confirmed the strike on Russian positions, which targeted a UAV control point, an electronic warfare unit, equipment, and weapons. This attack showcases Ukraine’s ability to effectively utilize Western military aid in its ongoing conflict with Russia.

“The UAV control point, an electronic warfare unit, equipment, weapons, and up to 40 Russian servicemen were hit,” the Armed Forces of Ukraine stated.

The Ukrainian armed forces released a video showing American GBU-39 bombs being dropped on a Russian platoon base. These glide bombs are modified with wings and navigation systems, allowing for extended range and improved accuracy. The use of such precision-guided munitions demonstrates Ukraine’s commitment to minimizing collateral damage while maximizing military effectiveness.

Strategic Implications of the Kursk Incursions

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that the incursions into the Kursk region aim to create a buffer zone and force Russia to redeploy troops. This strategy could potentially impact Russian offensive operations in Ukraine by stretching their resources and disrupting their logistics. Victoria Vdovychenko from the Centre for Defense Strategies highlighted the innovative use of Western military aid by Ukraine in these operations.

“It represents a versatile 250-pound guided munition designed for extended range and all-weather, day or night operations,” Vdovychenko said.

Currently, Ukraine controls 93 settlements in the Kursk region, indicating a significant presence in Russian territory. This development has forced Russia to divert resources to defend its own borders, potentially weakening its offensive capabilities in Ukraine. However, the situation remains complex, with Ukraine struggling to balance its territorial gains in Kursk with defending its eastern front in central Donetsk.

The Role of Glide Bombs in the Conflict

Both Russia and Ukraine have been utilizing glide bombs in their military operations. These weapons, which are difficult to intercept, have caused significant destruction on both sides. Ukraine’s recent use of US-made glide bombs represents a turning of the tables, as Russia has frequently employed similar weapons against Ukrainian targets.

The ongoing conflict continues to evolve, with both sides adapting their strategies and weaponry. As Ukraine demonstrates its ability to strike targets within Russian territory, the international community watches closely, weighing the potential implications for the broader geopolitical landscape and the future of the conflict.