Russian ‘intelligent bomb’ mishap highlights airstrike risks
A Russian plane accidentally dropped an "intelligent bomb" on the Belgorod Oblast. The incident occurred last Thursday (23rd January), according to reports from the Ukrainian source "Astra".
Remnants of a UMPB-250 aerial bomb were found near the village of Velyki Kulbaky. The missile was equipped with a special navigation module integrated with control elements, numerous antennas, and a turbojet engine. The bomb's warhead resembles the standard component used in the FAB-250 model, but the UMPB-250 model was designed as its "intelligent" and "loitering" variant.
Russians dropped an "intelligent bomb" on their own territory
All electronic components are housed beneath the nose cover, enabling the bomb-missile to be deployed over long distances. In contrast, the mechanisms in the upgraded FABs are positioned on top, increasing air resistance and reducing range, as described in the Kremlin's propaganda materials about the so-called "intelligent bomb."
"Astra" notes that by 2024, at least 165 cases of FAB aerial bombs falling on Russia and the territories of Ukraine occupied by it were recorded, thus failing to reach their targets.
Previously, British intelligence reported that emergency bomb and missile drops from Russian planes over their territory are a significant problem, as they pose a threat to the Russian civilian population.
These actions have heavily affected the Belgorod Oblast, which borders Ukraine. In May 2024 alone, stray bombs damaged 30 houses, 10 cars, and injured five people.
