Ukraine has reportedly carried out its first strike using US-provided ATACMS ballistic missiles against a Russian airfield in the Kursk region. According to open-source intelligence (OSINT) analysts and reports from Ukrainian outlets, the missiles targeted the “Kursk-East” tactical aviation airfield.
Details of the Strike
The attack, conducted in the early hours of 25 November, employed M39 ATACMS missiles equipped with cluster munitions. Ukrainian project “Cyberboroshno,” cited by the Ukrainian defence publication Militarnyi, revealed images showing the detonation of submunitions on the airfield grounds.
The missiles reportedly hit an area housing aircraft parking, potentially targeting Russian combat aviation stationed there. However, the presence of aircraft at the time of the strike has not been confirmed.
Satellite imagery from August 2022, referenced by Militarnyi, illustrates the approximate location of the airfield and the strike zone. Analysts identified geolocated images showing areas impacted by the missiles.
Russian Reactions
A Russian war correspondent associated with aviation matters corroborated the reports, claiming eight ATACMS missiles were launched in the attack. According to the correspondent, Russian air defences engaged seven of the missiles, though the term “engaged” appears to denote attempts at interception rather than successful destruction. No confirmation has been provided regarding the effectiveness of these defensive efforts or the scale of the damage incurred.
Implications of the Strike
This marks a significant milestone in Ukraine’s utilisation of ATACMS missiles, which were delivered by the United States earlier this year. The inclusion of cluster munitions in the payload reflects a strategic choice aimed at maximising impact on infrastructure and equipment, particularly in areas with concentrated military assets.
The “Kursk-East” airfield is a critical site for Russian tactical aviation, and its targeting aligns with Ukraine’s broader strategy of disrupting Russian logistics and operational capabilities. This attack underscores the evolving dynamics of the conflict, with Western-supplied advanced weaponry playing an increasingly prominent role.
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