Russia resumes extensive air strikes on Ukraine, striking Kyiv and Kharkiv
On March 22, the Russians launched their first extensive air strike in over a month, deploying aircraft and long-range missiles. The British Ministry of Defence detailed the weapons utilised in this assault on Ukrainian positions.
The daily intelligence update states the hiatus in these air strikes was possibly due to logistical issues and planning constraints. In this instance, the Russians deployed at least 10 Tu-95 bombers from airbases in Olenegorsk and Engels, along with MiG-31 interceptor fighters.
The Russians scrambled Tu-95 bombers
The Tu-95 (Bear-H in NATO code) is a strategic long-range bomber. The Russians began incorporating this model into their arsenal in the 1960s, and today, they also operate the updated versions of the Tu-95MS.
These aircraft have an estimated range of about 10,500 kilometres, and with air-to-air refuelling, they can reach approximately 14,080 kilometres. These nearly 50-metre-long machines can carry up to 22 tonnes of weapons.
According to the British Ministry of Defence, the Russians launched many missiles, including AS-24 ballistic missiles and the threatening AS-23a manoeuvring missiles. The latter can weigh up to 2,400 kilograms, carry up to 480 kilograms of warheads, and hit targets up to 4.5 kilometres away.
Kyiv and Kharkiv attacked
The onslaught targeted Ukraine's largest cities. Missiles hit, among others, Kyiv (which hadn't been under attack for 44 days) and Kharkiv, leading to damage to energy facilities. Consequently, many residents are facing a scarcity of water and heating.
The British suggest that the Russians might encounter issues due to sanctions, which have restricted access to certain crucial components for aircraft and missiles. They continue attempting to bypass these restrictions, and if they successfully acquire the necessary materials, they may relaunch similar large-scale attacks.
"Russia will likely persist in targeting key locations as soon as the availability of aircraft, crews, and weapons permits, striving to exert pressure on the Ukrainian government and populace through their capacity to stay on alert for strikes. This approach is indicative of an extended campaign, where tactical air forces, such as fighters and helicopters, still play a limited role in influencing the overall direction of the conflict," the British explain.
