Russia improves missiles to breach air defences
According to Financial Times, Russia modernises ballistic missiles“Iskander-M” and aeroballistic “Dagger“ to complicate the operation of air defence systems.
The upgraded missiles initially follow a standard trajectory and then abruptly change direction, either by performing a steep dive or manoeuvres. This complicates the calculation of the interception point and makes it possible to avoid being hit by the “Patriot“.
Implications for Ukraine
Analysts note that as a result of these changes Patriot's interception efficiency has decreased. In some months, the percentage of targets hit was lower than before, which poses an additional threat to Ukraine's infrastructure.
Such modifications are particularly dangerous in attacks on critical facilities, such as energy, transport, and manufacturing plants.
Reaction of allies
Kyiv is already sharing technical data on the attacks with partners, including Patriot manufacturers Raytheon and Lockheed Martin. Western allies are analysing the new tactics and working on countermeasures that will make the system more effective again.
Conclusion.
The modernisation of the Iskanders and Kinzhalas shows that Russia is actively adapting its weapons to war conditions. For Ukraine, this means new challenges in the air defence sector and even greater dependence on rapid assistance from partners.
Ukrainian
English