Russia turns old bombs into long-range precision weapons threatening Ukraine deeply

Russia is rapidly transforming its aerial strike capabilities by upgrading legacy Fab and Kab bombs into long-range, jet-powered precision weapons. This shift reflects Moscow’s attempt to maintain offensive pressure while reducing costs, creating a new category of low-cost strike systems that behave like cruise missiles. By extending the range of these munitions, Russian aircraft can now threaten Ukrainian rear areas from safer distances, complicating air-defense planning. For Ukraine, this introduces both operational and economic challenges, as high-value interceptors are now pitted against inexpensive yet effective weapons. At the same time, it underscores the growing reliance of Russia on improvised solutions rather than large-scale innovation. The battle for aerial dominance is entering a new phase where adaptability, electronic warfare, and strategic resource management will determine which side can sustain both defense and deterrence.

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