Ukraine used British Storm Shadow missiles against targets on Russian territory for the first time.
Storm Shadow missiles, unprecedented power at the service of kyiv
The Storm Shadow missiles, designed in the United Kingdom, represent a significant strategic advance for Ukraine. With a range exceeding 250 km, or even 500 km according to some sources, these 1.3 ton, 3 meter long machines make it possible to target key infrastructure well beyond the front lines.. According to the Financial Timesthese missiles were allegedly fired at a military site in Marino, in the Kursk region.
The importance of this first strike lies in the Ukrainians' ability to hit strategic targets in depth, thus destabilizing Russian logistics. In response, Moscow claimed to have shot down two missiles, but without corroborating these statements with clear evidence.
These strikes come after London's explicit agreement, but also after Joe Biden's authorization to use long-range missiles against Russia. Since their delivery in May 2023, these missiles had been used in areas under Russian occupation, such as in Crimea or Zaporizhzhia.. Their use on Russian soil is therefore a great first for kyiv. “ UK will support Ukraine for as long as necessary », Reaffirmed British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
A strategy to weaken Russian logistics
The use of Storm Shadow aims above all to destabilize the logistical capabilities of the Russian army. The strikes target ammunition depots, strategic infrastructure and troop concentration areas. Guillaume Ancel, a former French officer, explains: “ It is not with a few hundred missiles that the war will be overturned, but it will seriously weaken the Russian army. »
These strikes also fuel the media war. Russian Telegram channels broadcast videos showing missile debris, but federal channels largely downplayed the event. For their part, the Ukrainians are demonstrating that they have the means to strike where it hurts, sending a strong signal: the war could further intensify if Moscow refuses to give in.
International, Defense news
Guerre en Ukraine, missiles Storm Shadow
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