Why Russia Lacks a Defense Against Ukraine’s Domestically Produced Guided Bombs.

Ukraine’s Guided Aerial Bombs

According to Novyny.live: Ukraine is deploying guided aerial bombs, including models of its own design, and Russia currently has no effective countermeasure against them. These munitions, which range from Ukrainian developments to Western equivalents like the American JDAM kits, can strike targets from 10 to over 130 kilometers away. This capability marks a significant shift in the air war, as both sides grapple with the challenge of intercepting such weapons.

To shoot down these bombs, air defense systems on the level of the S-300 or S-400 are required—yet neither Ukraine nor Russia possesses a reliable method for doing so. According to expert estimates, Russia is able to deploy thousands of guided bombs each month, while Ukraine can only manage hundreds.

“The biggest challenge here is that Russia can use thousands of these munitions per month, while Ukraine can currently only use hundreds,” said Bohdan Dolintse.

Ukraine’s Guided Bomb Development

Ukraine is actively advancing its guided bomb program: the first domestically produced model was developed in just 17 months. Ukrainian pilots are also training with a new 250-kilogram aerial bomb in combat scenarios. Notably, Russian forces plan to introduce guided bombs with rocket boosters by autumn 2025.

“When it comes to guided bombs, these are weapons that travel—even if only for a short distance,” the expert added.

As a result, guided bombs have become a central element of modern military strategy for both countries, where technological progress and deployment capabilities are decisive.

In the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, the development and use of guided aerial bombs is increasingly critical for both sides. With no effective air defense systems available to stop them, the ability to rapidly adopt new technologies and maintain a strategic edge could define key phases of the fighting. Given Russia’s plans to field new types of guided bombs, Ukraine must continue refining its own military technologies and strategies to preserve the regional balance of power.