Strana 28
36 small warheads. These warheads, however,
lacked explosives, suggesting the attack was
either a mere show of strength or intended
to rely on the kinetic impact of high-speed
projectiles.
Putin also claimed that serial production of
the Oreshnik had already begun, though this
appeared to be more propaganda than reality.
Truth is, that the Oreshnik is a modified version
of the RS-26 Rubezh experimental ICBM
developed in 2011. Despite four successful
tests, the RS-26 never entered production due
to high costs and a lack of new technologies.
The Oreshnik seems to be an experimental
prototype created by removing one stage from
the RS-26, reducing its range and reclassifying
it as an intermediate-range missile. The original
RS-26 was highly inaccurate, an acceptable
flaw for nuclear warheads but problematic
for conventional payloads. The addition of
multiple warheads with submunitions aimed
to increase the likelihood of hitting targets,
but this approach proved ineffective. Satellite
images of the Pivdenmash plant post-attack
revealed no significant damage.
Ultimately, this was an expensive
demonstration of power with no tangible
military effect. However, its indirect
implications are notable. Even without serial
production, Russia can feign preparations
for launching another such missile. These
preparations are difficult to conceal,
prompting Ukrainian air defenses to respond.
By observing the redeployment of defenses,
Russia can then target less protected or
undefended locations with conventional means.
The Oreshnik also provided a strategic
lesson. U.S. President Joe Biden confirmed
that Russia was informed in advance of the
decision to permit Ukraine to use ATACMS
missiles against the Russian territory.
Similarly, Kremlin informed the U.S. ahead
of its use of the intermediate-range ballistic
missile. This exchange demonstrates that
communication channels between the two
nations remain functional, helping to prevent
misunderstandings and disproportionate
responses that could escalate tensions.
F-16 pilot traning
Amidst regular Russian drone and cruise
missile attacks, the Ukrainian Air Force
is beginning to utilize F-16 fighter jets
effectively. Although Ukraine currently has
a limited number of these aircraft, their
impact is evident – during individual attacks,
they typically shoot down about 10 Russian
missiles. The first delivery of six aircraft from
Denmark was a significant step, although one
of them has already been destroyed. Another
delivery of six aircraft is expected but has not
materialized yet.
The key factor in deploying the F-16s is pilot
training, which is still ongoing. The Netherlands,
another donor of F-16s, has moved its aircraft
to Romania, where Ukrainian pilots are being
trained.
However, Ukraine's prospects in this area
are very promising. In the United Kingdom,
more than 200 Ukrainian pilots have already
completed basic training on propeller aircraft.
Some of them are continuing their training
in France on Alpha Jet training jets. These
planes have been specially modified to make
their cockpits as similar as possible to those
of the F-16, making the transition to advanced
fighters easier.
After completing training on Alpha Jets,
the next step is training on the actual F-16s.
This takes place not only in Romania but
also in Denmark, with the participation of
the Norwegian instructors. From 2025, the
training will shift to Portugal, with Norway
already having relocated its F-16s to Romania
and Portugal for this purpose.
In addition to training, Norway is providing
financial support for arming the F-16s. During
the observed period, it allocated $119 million to
ensure that the Ukrainian aircraft are equipped
to perform their missions effectively.
The training process for the F-16s not only
enhances Ukraine's defensive capabilities but
also demonstrates that Western nations are
committed to supporting Ukraine with both
technology and the necessary expertise.
UKRAINE
Russians claim that the Oreshnik missile is in large scale production, however it remains it its experimental
stage.
This month, Russians claimed numerous
"military" targets...
INFO Eduard28
January 2025