Russia's bomb boost: A looming challenge for Ukraine's defences
The British think tank Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) has published a new report on the current situation at the front in Ukraine. As noted by the Ukrainian portal Defense Express, the report's authors indicate that Russia plans to produce up to 75,000 bombs from the KAB family in 2025. However, this is just the tip of the iceberg, it states.
The RUSI document shows that Russia intends to boost its production of guided bombs to 75,000 units by 2025. This marks a 50 percent increase from 2024, during which they plan to produce 50,000 bombs.
Challenges for the Ukrainian Armed Forces
Defense Express notes that the increased production of guided bombs by Russia translates into greater pressure on Ukrainian positions. Currently, due to continuous shelling, Ukrainian forces are unable to construct fortifications closer than 6 kilometres from the front line. Additionally, Russian army drones pose a significant threat, forcing tanks and armoured vehicles to be kept at least 3 kilometres from the front.
The role of drones and artillery
Analysts also highlight the issue of drones, which play a crucial role in reconnaissance and can operate at distances ranging from 3 to 14 kilometres from the front line. However, their effectiveness is contingent on the commanders' skills. The RUSI report emphasizes that, under favourable conditions, artillery (such as 155-mm BONUS shells) can be more effective than drones.
The report further underscores logistical challenges related to ammunition delivery. Due to the dominance of drones, supplies must be delivered in short "time windows," leading to occasional ammunition shortages. There is frequently a lack of propellant charges, which prevents firing even when there is an adequate stock of shells.
KAB series bombs
To clarify, the KAB series bombs that Russia plans to increase production of have been designed in various versions, each differing in equipment and weight. These bombs were developed as an extension of the FAB-500 model and have diverse applications in combat operations. One variant, the KAB-500L, is equipped with a laser-guidance system and contains roughly 450 kilograms of explosives.
Thanks to their precision, with an accuracy of up to 7 metres, they are effective even in challenging terrain. These bombs are compatible with aircraft such as the Su-24 and MiG-27. The drop process involves prior target detection, allowing their use from altitudes ranging from 500 metres to 5 kilometres and at speeds from 550 km/h to 1,100 km/h. Advanced electronic systems provide further control of the bomb, enabling the pilot to bypass the need to track its trajectory after release—a method known as "drop and forget."
