Russian glide bombs have significantly altered the battlefield dynamics. The deployment of inexpensive guided bombs with retractable wings and satellite navigation allows them to be converted into precision weapons that can be launched from outside the reach of air defense systems. However, Ukraine has found ways to counter this threat, as reported by Forbes.

In 2024, the production of glide bombs has increased dramatically. Russia is launching thousands of these bombs monthly at Ukrainian positions, causing immense destruction and human casualties.

Ukraine appears to be able to counter this threat. Last week, a representative of the Ukrainian Air Force announced the successful interception of a glide bomb in the Zaporizhzhia region, noting that this was not the first instance, but he did not disclose further details. Information has surfaced on Ukrainian Telegram channels about the deployment of new weaponry capable of intercepting these bombs, and an increase in such successes is anticipated.

Challenging Targets

Glide bombs are difficult targets for several reasons. Although some models can weigh up to three tons, most have a mass of less than a ton and a wingspan of less than seven feet. This makes them less detectable on radar, complicating tracking and interception efforts.

Most short-range surface-to-air missiles, like the Stinger, are equipped with infrared homing, but unpowered glide bombs lack a hot jet exhaust, rendering them invisible to such systems. Moreover, they have a thick steel casing with no vulnerable engines or fuel tanks, making them hard to destroy.

The main challenge lies in the mass deployment of these weapons. As Justin Bronk from RUSI pointed out in an interview with the BBC:

"You would quickly deplete all available air defense munitions."

Therefore, most experts believe that the only way to stop glide bombs is to target their carriers before they launch. One approach is to enhance Ukrainian air defense or provide more F-16s to force Russian aircraft to stay further away from the effective range of such bombs. Others, such as RAND, suggest striking the airbases from which bombers operate. This would require long-range weapons, like ATACMS, the supply of which remains a political issue.

Intercepting Bombs

Despite the complexity of the task, there are efforts to find ways to intercept them. Recently, NATO's Transformation Directorate announced an "innovative challenge" to combat glide bombs. This initiative explores various solutions, including electronic jamming, preventing the launch of carriers, and directly destroying bombs in the air. Special attention is given to systems that utilize artificial intelligence and machine learning, as well as portable and cost-effective solutions.

Ukraine has already applied similar approaches to combat reconnaissance drones and Shahed kamikaze drones. FPV interceptor drones, integrated into a sensor network with intelligent management, have been successfully used against reconnaissance UAVs. Mobile fire groups equipped with searchlights and automatic cannons have been created to destroy Shahed drones. This has led to a high level of effectiveness; for instance, in January 2024, Ukraine shot down 96% of launched Shahed drones.

It is likely that the solution for combating glide bombs will be a hybrid of these methods. It may include radar or other sensors for threat detection, a management system for coordinating defense, and effectors—cost-effective guided missiles like Vampire, Skynex-type anti-aircraft guns, or new high-speed interceptor drones like Wild Hornets Sting. The use of artificial intelligence could enhance the system's effectiveness.

As noted in NATO's document, scalability is a key factor. Each glide bomb intercepted saves lives, but systematic destruction of these weapons could significantly weaken Russia's offensive capabilities and alter the dynamics of the conflict. Russia has heavily relied on these bombs as a primary means of warfare, and their effectiveness has become critically important to its offensive strategy.

If Ukraine can implement a mass interception system, it will change the game not only in the war with Russia but also impact future military conflicts in general. For example, the U.S. Air Force heavily relies on JDAMs, and if they can be effectively intercepted, it would jeopardize the U.S.'s ability to operate in similar conditions.

Downing of a Russian Glide Bomb

Today, the Armed Forces of Ukraine confirmed the downing of a Russian glide bomb over Zaporizhzhia. "Preliminary reports suggest this is an experimental weapon," stated military correspondent Andrei Tsaplyenko.

According to military analyst Anatoliy Khrapchynskyi, Ukrainian specialists have indeed found a way to intercept Russian guided bombs. This followed a prolonged search for alternatives, as traditional air defense measures against bombs were deemed ineffective.