The Ukrainian army is apparently still succeeding in contesting airspace from Russia. This is mainly due to arms deliveries from the West.
Kyiv – The reports that Russia’s* armed forces have to cope with numerous setbacks in the Ukraine conflict* are increasing. Recently, reports have been circulating that Vladimir Putin’s* army is lacking supplies.
In addition, there is apparently an army of Ukraine* that is gaining in military strength. The BBC reports that Ukrainian forces have shot down at least 20 Russian planes so far. In addition, there are probably numerous military helicopters. The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine had previously spoken of a total of 80 flying objects shot down, which is considered an unrealistic estimate. Irrespective of propaganda reports from both sides, it is nevertheless clear that the airspace is contested and increasingly dominated by Ukraine, interestingly despite a former enormous disparity: According to British Defense Minister Ben Wallace, Ukraine was inferior to Russia 1:3 when the Kremlin all available flight units at the border. In the meantime, the relationship may have changed, not least due to the downed helicopters and planes of the Russian army.
Ukraine war: Western missile shipment numbers fluctuate wildly
The basis of the Ukrainian military success is likely to be primarily weapons deliveries from the West. In particular, shoulder-launched anti-aircraft missiles (“manpads”) can shoot down helicopters and airplanes. According to the BBC report, so-called Stinger air missiles from the USA * are also used. The US military used this primarily in Afghanistan*.
It is difficult to put a figure on how many anti-missile defense missiles have now been delivered to Ukraine from the West. A US defense official recently told CNN that there were around 17,000 anti-tank missiles and 2,000 Stinger air-to-air missiles. However, this information cannot be independently verified.
Ukraine War: Soviet-era air defense systems arguably helpful
However, according to Justin Bronk, Air Force Research Officer at the Royal United Services Institute in London, Ukraine itself also has suitable combat missiles. He told the BBC that older, long-range anti-aircraft systems dating back to the Soviet era could force Russia’s planes to fly lower. In this way, surface-to-air missiles with a weaker range would be used.
Irrespective of the equipment, however, military personnel are the key requirement for being able to push Russia back further, according to Bronk. (tu) fr.de is an offer from IPPEN.MEDIA.
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