Russia-Ukraine War Latest News: Russia has released footage showing a powerful FAB-3000 glide bomb striking Ukraine’s Orikhove town in the Zaporizhzhia region, highlighting the increasing intensity of the Russia-Ukraine war. The three-ton guided bomb, deployed from a Russian aircraft, reportedly caused significant destruction and has renewed concerns over the use of heavy Soviet-era munitions in the conflict.
Russia Showcases FAB-3000 Strike in Zaporizhzhia
According to Russian footage released on Monday, the FAB-3000 bomb was used against targets in Orikhove, a town in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region. The strike comes amid heightened military activity on both sides of the conflict and follows a series of drone and missile attacks exchanged between Russia and Ukraine.
The FAB-3000 is a Soviet-designed heavy guided bomb that has been adapted with a modern glide kit, allowing it to be launched from several kilometres away from its target.
What Is the FAB-3000 Glide Bomb?
The Foundation for Defence of Democracies says the FAB-3000 can carry up to 1.4 tonnes of explosives and uses a UMPK glide kit to extend its range after release. The weapon is typically deployed by the Russian Sukhoi Su-34 and is mounted on the aircraft’s forward centerline station.
Analysts estimate the bomb has a range of approximately 50 to 60 kilometres, which is shorter than smaller FAB-series variants such as the FAB-500 because of its greater weight. The think tank also noted that Russia is reportedly developing an improved UMPK system that could increase both range and accuracy.
Ukraine Expands European Air-Defence Cooperation
As Russian missile strikes continue, Ukraine and nine European countries announced a new air-defence coalition aimed at jointly developing a ballistic missile defence system.
According to Reuters, the proposed system is intended to provide a more affordable alternative to the U.S. Patriot missile defence platform while strengthening Europe’s ability to counter ballistic missile threats.
Long-Range Attacks Intensify on Both Sides
Ukrainian forces have increased long-range drone and maritime strikes targeting fuel infrastructure, logistics networks and vessels around Crimea. In response, Russia has launched additional drone and missile barrages against Ukrainian targets.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has also warned that future Ukrainian attacks could trigger retaliation “much more powerful” than previous Russian responses, signalling the possibility of further escalation.
Russia-Ukraine War Latest News: European Support for Ukraine on Display in France
On Tuesday, France’s national day celebrations featured military participation from several European countries, including Germany, the United Kingdom, Poland, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Norway and Greece. The parade also included nearly 500 soldiers from the “Coalition of the Willing,” a group of 34 countries that includes Ukraine and is focused on providing security guarantees and military assistance.
According to the Associated Press, the event was intended to demonstrate continued European support for Ukraine and showcase regional military cooperation amid ongoing challenges on the eastern front.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information from Russian military footage and reporting by Reuters, the Associated Press, and the Foundation for Defence of Democracies. Battlefield claims from either side in the Russia-Ukraine conflict may be difficult to independently verify.
