The Ukrainian army is apparently still succeeding in contesting airspace from Russia. This is mainly due to arms deliveries from the West.
Kyiv – Reports are mounting that Russia’s armed forces are coping with numerous setbacks in the Ukraine conflict. Most 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 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 an enormous disproportion: According to British Defense Minister Ben Wallace, Ukraine was inferior to Russia 1:3 when the Kremlin used all available air units gathered at the border. The relationship may have changed by now.
Ukraine war: Western missile shipment figures fluctuate
The basis of the Ukrainian military success is likely to be primarily weapons deliveries from the West. Above all, 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 primarily used these 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 helpful
However, according to Justin Bronk, Air Force Research Officer at the Royal United Services Institute in London, Ukraine itself has suitable combat missiles as well. 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.
