In March, Russia launched over 1,500 more glide bombs on Ukraine than in February, aiming to increase pressure following battlefield setbacks.
Russian Glide Bomb Attacks Reach New Peak
Russia deployed the highest number of glide bombs since the start of the war in March, exceeding February’s figures by over 1,500. The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense stated that Russian forces are attempting to exert pressure by increasing the number of air strikes after failing to achieve desired successes on the front lines.
Russian forces are launching these bombs from aircraft positioned beyond the reach of Ukrainian defenses.
Cost-Effectiveness of Glide Bombs
Experts note that while glide bombs have a shorter range than missile strikes, they are cheaper to produce. Russia is deploying them from aircraft located within Russian territory or in Russian-occupied areas, placing them outside the range of Ukrainian air defense systems.
Record Drone Launches in March
March also saw a record number of drones launched within a 24-hour period. Approximately 1,000 drones were launched by Russia between March 23rd and 24th.
Attacks on Sumy and Nikopol
Over the past day, Russia conducted numerous massive attacks using drones and missiles targeting civilian infrastructure in Ukraine. Seven people were killed and 35 were injured in attacks in the Donetsk and Kherson regions.
Deadly Drone Strike on Sumy
During the night of April 3rd-4th, Russian drones struck a residential area in the center of Sumy, northeastern Ukraine. Several explosions were heard, and a fire broke out in an apartment building, resulting in the deaths of 11 people, including a child.
Nikopol Market Attack
Russian drones also struck Nikopol in southern Ukraine, targeting a local marketplace. Five people were killed, and at least 19 were injured, including a 14-year-old girl.