Russia limits its use of Kalibr missiles: Ukrainian navy explains why
Photo: Ukrainian Navy spokesperson Dmytro Pletenchuk (facebook.com.Taclbery)
Russia is launching Kalibr cruise missiles from the Black Sea in limited numbers due to technical difficulties and unfavorable weather conditions. The effectiveness of these missiles has decreased compared to the start of the full-scale invasion, said Ukrainian Navy spokesperson Dmytro Pletenchuk.
"There is currently no confirmation of mass Kalibr launches. Regarding today’s use, the verification is still ongoing. I am not ready to confirm yet. Possibly, there were only a limited number," the Ukrainian Navy spokesperson emphasized.
According to Pletenchuk, weather conditions and the technical state of the launch platforms limit Russia’s capabilities.
"It is much more difficult to use them now, because even if they can go to sea, launching missiles in three- or four-point conditions or higher is practically impossible," he explained.
Russia is also facing maintenance and logistics challenges.
"There is, of course, wear and tear, considering that servicing all these units is quite difficult," the spokesperson stressed.
Pletenchuk noted that missile effectiveness has significantly declined. Air defense systems have gained experience and equipment during the full-scale invasion to counter this type of missile.
Despite these difficulties, Russia still has launch platforms in the Black Sea.
"At least seven launch platforms remain in the Black Sea, yet we see missile use only two to three times per month at most," Pletenchuk added.
Previously, Russia attempted to use Kalibr missiles to pressure Ukraine and blockade sea routes, but the Ukrainian Navy ensures the operation of the Ukrainian maritime corridor.
The reduction in launch intensity and Russia's technical problems lower the threat to Ukraine's critical infrastructure, highlighting the limits of Russia's naval operational capabilities.
Pletenchuk also noted that technically, Black Sea Fleet ships are capable of launching Kalibr missiles directly from port. He added that the port of Novorossiysk remains dangerous for Russian ships, as Ukrainian forces can strike them even while in harbor.
Additionally, Pletenchuk shared new details about the strike on the Varshavyanka submarine in Novorossiysk. He said the operation was complicated due to a well-defended base, and recently, Russia has avoided keeping its ships and submarines in the Black Sea due to the high risk of attack.
