What is a KAB and what role does this weapon play in the war in Ukraine?

This information is reported by Holovpost.

What are GABs

A guided aerial bomb is a specific type of aerial weapon equipped with aerodynamic surfaces for gliding and a flight control system. With these elements, the weapon can adjust its trajectory, significantly increasing its effectiveness in hitting targets.

Russia utilizes two main types of GABs:

1. Specially designed gliding bombs, such as the UPAB-1500V.

2. Modified Soviet high-explosive bombs (FAB-250, FAB-500, FAB-1500), to which correction systems are added.

How Russia uses GABs

GABs are dropped from aircraft like the Su-34 or Su-35. These carriers typically operate at distances beyond the reach of Ukrainian air defense systems, releasing bombs at altitudes of 12-14 km and speeds of around 12 km/h.

For instance, the UPAB-1500V has a flight range of up to 50 km when dropped from an altitude of 14 km. Another model, the Grom-E1, can reach targets at a distance of 120 km thanks to its solid-fuel booster. On average, the effective range of GABs is about 80 km, posing a threat to border and frontline regions.

As noted by one military expert, these bombs are difficult to intercept due to their high altitude and speed, as well as the fact that their carriers remain outside the effective range of most air defense systems.

The necessity for modern defense systems

To counter such attacks, Ukraine needs modern air defense systems like Patriot or SAMP-T, as well as Western aircraft, particularly F-16 fighters. These technologies are capable of effectively neutralizing the threat posed by guided aerial bombs.

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