What's happened
Recent Russian missile upgrades involve Iskander-M and Kinzhal systems, which now perform last-minute maneuvers to evade Ukrainian defenses. Ukraine's interception rate has fallen sharply from 37% in August to 6% in September, amid Russian tactics that include steep dives and unpredictable trajectories. The US considers providing long-range missiles to Ukraine.
What's behind the headline?
Russian missile upgrades significantly alter the battlefield dynamics, making Ukrainian defenses less effective. The recent decline in interception rates from 37% to 6% indicates a tactical shift by Russia, likely involving software-based guidance modifications that enable steep dives and unpredictable maneuvers. This development underscores the importance of adaptive defense systems and intelligence sharing. The US's consideration of long-range missiles, such as Tomahawks, signals a strategic escalation aimed at degrading Russian energy infrastructure, which could influence the broader conflict. The Ukrainian reliance on Patriot systems, while vital, is now challenged by these Russian innovations, highlighting the need for rapid technological adaptation and increased intelligence support to maintain defensive capabilities.
What the papers say
The articles from The Independent, NY Post, and The Moscow Times collectively highlight the recent Russian missile upgrades and their impact on Ukrainian defenses. The Independent emphasizes the tactical improvements involving Iskander-M and Kinzhal missiles, describing them as game-changers. The NY Post reports the sharp decline in Ukrainian missile interception rates and details Russian tactics to evade Patriot systems, noting the development of software modifications. The Moscow Times underscores the strategic importance of Patriot systems and the challenges posed by Russian maneuvers, suggesting these upgrades are a deliberate effort to outsmart Ukrainian defenses. While all sources agree on the tactical evolution, they differ slightly in focus: The Independent and The Moscow Times emphasize the technical and strategic aspects, whereas the NY Post highlights the immediate operational impact and the broader implications for Ukraine's defense.
How we got here
Russia has been developing missile tactics to improve evasion of Ukrainian air defenses, including the use of software modifications to guidance systems. Ukraine relies heavily on US-provided Patriot systems, which are now less effective due to these Russian tactical improvements. The US is also contemplating supplying Ukraine with long-range missiles to target Russian infrastructure, amid ongoing conflict since 2014.
Go deeper
Common question
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What Are Russia's Recent Missile Upgrades and How Are They Affecting Ukraine?
Recent upgrades to Russian missile systems, including the Iskander-M and Kinzhal, are significantly impacting Ukraine's defenses. These modifications enable Russian missiles to perform last-minute maneuvers, making interception much harder and raising concerns about Ukraine's ability to protect its infrastructure. Below, we explore the details of these upgrades, their strategic implications, and what they mean for the ongoing conflict.
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What Are Russia's New Missile Tactics and How Are Ukraine's Defenses Holding Up?
Recent upgrades to Russian missile systems, including the Iskander-M and Kinzhal, have changed the game in Ukraine. These new tactics involve last-minute maneuvers that make interception much harder, causing Ukrainian defenses to struggle. Many are asking: what exactly are these new tactics, why are Ukraine's defenses failing now, and can Ukraine adapt to these evolving threats? Below, we explore these questions and more to understand the latest developments in missile warfare between Russia and Ukraine.
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How Are Russia’s Missile Upgrades Changing Warfare Tactics?
Russia has recently upgraded its missile systems, including the Iskander-M and Kinzhal, enabling new maneuvers that challenge existing defenses. These modifications are shifting the strategic landscape, especially in Ukraine, where Ukrainian defenses like the US-provided Patriot systems are struggling to keep up. Curious about what specific upgrades have been made, how they improve Russian tactics, and what this means for global security? Keep reading to find out.
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What Are Russia's Latest Missile Upgrades and How Are They Affecting Ukraine?
Recent developments show Russia upgrading its missile systems, including the Iskander-M and Kinzhal, to improve evasion tactics against Ukrainian defenses. These upgrades are causing a sharp decline in Ukraine's interception success, raising questions about the future of the conflict and potential US involvement. Below, we explore the latest Russian missile enhancements, their impact on Ukraine, and what might come next.
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What Are Russia's Recent Missile Tactics and How Is Ukraine Responding?
Recent developments in the Ukraine conflict highlight significant changes in Russian missile tactics. Russia has upgraded its missile systems, including Iskander-M and Kinzhal missiles, which now perform last-minute maneuvers to evade Ukrainian defenses. Ukraine's ability to intercept these missiles has sharply declined, raising questions about future strategies and support. In this page, we explore the latest tactics, Ukraine's adaptations, potential military aid, and what all this means for the ongoing conflict.
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Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a transcontinental country located in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Covering an area of 17,125,200 square kilometres, it is the largest country in the world by area, spanning more than one-eighth of the Earth's in
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Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.