Ukraine’s Countermeasures Force Russian Glide Bomb Usage to Plummet

Ukraine has achieved significant progress in mitigating the devastating impact of Russian glide bomb strikes, which have long posed a serious threat to both Ukrainian military positions and civilian areas. Once a cornerstone of Russia’s aerial strategy, these bombs—enhanced with guidance kits for improved precision—have seen a sharp decline in use over recent weeks, providing much-needed relief on the front lines and beyond.

Reports reveal a dramatic decrease in Russian glide bomb deployments, dropping from 1,472 launches in early November to just 431 in the first 12 days of December 2024. This decline reflects a combination of Ukrainian countermeasures and logistical challenges faced by Russian forces. Ukrainian strikes on airfields, depots, and supply chains have disrupted the production and delivery of these munitions, while adverse winter conditions and effective drone countermeasures have further hampered Russia’s ability to sustain such attacks.

This shift underscores the growing impact of Ukraine’s deep-strike capabilities and strategic targeting, reducing Russian aerial dominance and reshaping the dynamics of the conflict. As Ukraine continues to press its advantage, the battle to neutralize this threat remains pivotal for maintaining momentum on the battlefield and safeguarding civilian areas.

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