Russia has recently deployed a powerful aerial bomb known as the FAB-1500, which has significantly impacted Ukrainian defenses and shifted the balance on the front lines. This weapon, originally a basic Soviet-era bomb, has been modified into a gliding bomb capable of creating a crater up to fifteen meters wide.
The FAB-1500 is a 1.5-tonne bomb consisting of nearly half high explosives, making it an immensely destructive weapon. It is delivered by fighter jets from a distance of 60-70 kilometers, effectively evading many of the Ukrainian air defenses. This bomb serves as a prime example of Russia’s strategy in the Ukraine conflict, aimed at inflicting massive destruction before attempting to seize territory.
Recent videos from the battlelines in the Donetsk region have revealed the devastating power of these bombs, as they have targeted thermal power plants, factories, and residential buildings where Ukrainian defenses are coordinated.
The FAB-1500 is guided towards its target by a sophisticated guidance system and features pop-out wings that enable it to glide with precision. This allows Russia’s tactical jets to strike targets from a safer distance, minimizing the risk to their pilots.
One soldier from Ukraine’s 46th Separate Airmobile Brigade described the impact of the FAB-1500, stating that it has intensified the aggression of Russian forces and significantly affected morale. The immense damage caused by these bombs often leads to injuries and psychological trauma for surviving soldiers.
The use of FAB bombs, including the FAB-1500, has become a critical aspect of the Russian offensive in the Donetsk region. The city of Avdiivka, which fell in February, suffered extensive destruction from these bombs, effectively dismantling Ukrainian defenses.
The FAB-1500 is the most powerful member of a family of Soviet-era bombs that have been converted at a plant near Moscow, turning them into cost-effective and potent glide bombs. Although the conversion process presents some challenges, Russia has a large supply of basic explosive packages.
Russian military bloggers first reported on the FAB-1500’s development in September, highlighting its increased range and accuracy. It has since been used in various locations, including Kherson in the south and Kharkiv in the north.
While the Ukrainian air force has managed to down several Su-34 fighters in recent weeks, most of their air defenses lack the range to engage planes flying 70 kilometers away. This allows Russian planes to continue deploying these devastating bombs, targeting not only frontline positions but also rear command posts and supply lines.
The development of glide bombs has provided Russia with a more effective utilization of its tactical air force in the ongoing conflict. Countermeasures such as the US Patriot complex are limited in their range and availability, posing a challenge for Ukrainian defenses.
Ukrainian officials have been actively seeking longer-range air defense weapons to counter the Russian aerial threat. The acquisition of F-16 combat aircraft, which Ukrainian pilots are currently training on, is expected to enhance their capabilities and deter Russian combat aircraft from approaching as closely.
Despite the losses suffered by Ukrainian forces, their positions continue to be bombarded by Russian airstrikes daily. These ongoing attacks, combined with previous intense artillery barrages, lay bare the devastating consequences on Ukrainian defenses and the lack of safe havens for their troops.
As we examine the implications of this conflict and emerging trends, it becomes evident that the development and deployment of advanced weaponry, like the FAB-1500, significantly impact the dynamics
