Russia stockpiles ballistic missiles for new winter strikes on Ukraine — Bloomberg
Illustrative photo: rocket attack (GettyImages)
Russia has reduced its ballistic missile strikes and stepped up attacks with jet-powered drones. This may indicate that it is stockpiling missiles for winter strikes on the energy sector, Bloomberg reports.
Russia's new tactics
According to Bloomberg, since August, Russian forces have significantly reduced their use of ballistic missiles capable of inflicting serious damage on Ukrainian infrastructure, particularly energy facilities.
At the same time, Russia is most frequently using jet-powered drones. This shift may indicate that Moscow is conserving part of its missile stockpile for future use.
Possible strikes in winter
Bloomberg speculates that Russia may use its stockpiled missiles against electricity and heating facilities during the cold season. The winter season in Ukraine typically begins in late October or early November.
Against this backdrop, one of the key risks remains the shortage of interceptor missiles for the US Patriot air defense systems. These are precisely the systems needed to counter ballistic missiles.
Thus, a reduction in the number of ballistic missile strikes does not necessarily mean a decrease in the missile threat at this time.
According to Bloomberg's assessment, the change in the intensity of their use may be linked to Russia's preparations for a new phase of airstrikes during the winter.
Russia intends to significantly increase production of Dan-T strike weapons, which, when combined with other types of missiles and drones, could intensify the strain on Ukraine's air defense.
