Russia released footage of a three-ton glide bomb causing massive destruction in Ukraine’s Orikhove town of Zaporizhzhia region on Monday, amid escalated tensions between the nations.The bomb was identified as FAB-3000, a heavy guided bomb deployed from a Russian aircraft, reportedly several kilometres away. Originating from the Soviet era, it has been deployed by Russian forces in Ukraine.
FAB-3000
According to a US think tank, the Foundation for Defence of Democracies, the bomb can carry up to 1.4 tonnes of explosives and travel long distances after its release, using a UMPK glide kit.
It is deployed by the Russian Sukhoi Su-34 fighter aircraft, mounted specifically on the aircraft’s forward centerline station, and has an estimated range of 50 to 60 kilometres, which is shorter than smaller variants like the FAB-500 due to its weight.Russia is also working on an improved version of the UMPK, allegedly offering a longer range and greater accuracy.
A conflict with no visible end
The Russia-Ukraine war doesn’t seem to be cooling down. On Monday, Ukraine and nine other European countries announced an air-defence coalition that plans jointly to develop a ballistic missile defence system to counter the growing threat from Russia’s missile strikes.According to Reuters, the proposed anti-ballistic missile system would be a cheaper alternative to the U.S. Patriot system.Ukrainian forces have also intensified long-range drone and maritime attacks deep inside Russian territory, targeting fuel infrastructure, logistics networks and vessels around Crimea.Russia has responded with fresh drone and missile barrages against Ukraine, while President Vladimir Putin has vowed retaliation much more powerful against future Ukrainian strikes.On Tuesday, France celebrated its national day, seeing active participation of troops and aircraft from Germany, the United Kingdom, Croatia, Poland, Denmark, Greece, Sweden, Norway, Spain and Italy in the celebratory parade. It also involved nearly 500 soldiers from the “Coalition of the Willing”, an organisation of 34 countries (including Ukraine) committed to providing security guarantees and military assistance to Ukraine.According to AP, the event showcased its support for Ukraine and proof of European military strength, amid growing challenges on the eastern front.
