Russia’s reluctance to employ its powerful glide bombs in the Kursk region reveals a critical weakness in its air-control systems, potentially shifting the balance of power in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
At a Glance
- Russia is limiting the use of glide bombs near Kursk due to fear of friendly fire
- Ukraine has launched a significant offensive in the Kursk region, capturing villages and taking prisoners
- The operation has shifted Western perceptions of the war in favor of Ukraine
- Ukraine aims to create a buffer zone in Kursk to protect its northern cities
- Russia is struggling to repel the Ukrainian assault, deploying conscripts with insufficient training
Russia’s Glide Bomb Dilemma
In a surprising turn of events, Russia finds itself unable to fully utilize one of its most potent weapons – glide bombs – against Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region. The reason? A lack of adequate systems to prevent friendly fire. This limitation highlights a significant weakness in Russia’s military capabilities, particularly in its air-control systems.
Glide bombs, equipped with guidance systems and launchable from jets at a distance, have proven to be formidable weapons. Russia has been enhancing these bombs, with the newest model weighing a staggering 6,600 pounds. However, despite their effectiveness, Russia has been hesitant to use them extensively against Ukrainian forces in Kursk.
WP: Ukraine with its offensive in the Kursk region is trying to show the West that it is possible to cross Putin's red lines
So Zelenskyy is now demanding that Washington's restrictions, which prohibit Kyiv from using Western weapons for long-range strikes against targets in… pic.twitter.com/WEMsFfOcPq
— NEXTA (@nexta_tv) August 24, 2024
Ukraine’s Offensive in Kursk
Taking advantage of Russia’s reluctance, Ukrainian forces have launched a significant offensive in the Kursk region. This fast-moving operation has been positive for Ukraine, giving them the initiative after months of stagnant warfare. Ukrainian forces have captured villages, taken prisoners, and even set up a military office inside Russia. This incursion, while certainly compliant with Ukraine’s right to self-defense, has caught both Russia and the global community by surprise.
The Ukrainian offensive aims to create a buffer zone in Kursk to protect Kharkiv and other northern cities. This strategic move has not only shifted the battlefield dynamics but also refocused international attention on the war, moving discussions away from stalemate or concessions.
Russia’s Struggles and Internal Challenges
Russia’s response to the Ukrainian offensive has been less than stellar. Unprepared for the attack, Russia is now drafting conscripts to respond, many with insufficient training. This has led to a state of “unhappy compliance” among Russia’s elites, as Putin’s image as a guarantor of Russia’s security and stability suffers.
Adding to Russia’s woes, the Kremlin is conducting a purge of Defense Ministry officials, with many facing corruption charges. A recent bridge collapse in Kursk, attributed to a Ukrainian strike, has further complicated Russian troop supplies, exacerbating the challenges faced by Putin’s forces.
Implications for the Conflict
Ukraine’s successful operation in Kursk has achieved multiple objectives. It has inflicted significant damage on Russian war capabilities, captured hundreds of Russian soldiers, and most importantly, restored belief that Ukraine can beat Russia. This shift in perception could potentially lead to increased Western support for Ukraine.
As the conflict evolves, the question remains: Will Ukraine’s allies loosen restrictions on long-range weapons for use inside Russia? The answer to this question could significantly impact the future course of the war and potentially bring Moscow to fair peace negotiations.
