Russia Commences Mass Production of Advanced Glide Bombs with 200km Range

Enhanced Glide Bomb Capabilities Enter Mass Production

The Russian Federation has officially commenced the serial production of new glide bombs, integrating advanced guidance modules designed to significantly extend their operational range. These upgraded munitions are reportedly capable of striking targets up to 200 kilometers deep into Ukrainian territory, according to Ukrainian intelligence reports. The development and combat testing phases for these new bombs were completed in September and October 2025.

The core of this enhancement lies in the 'Unified Gliding and Correction Module' (UMPK), a kit that transforms conventional, unguided Soviet-era aerial bombs into precision-guided glide weapons. This system allows for cost-effective conversion, with estimates placing the cost of upgrading a 'dumb bomb' at approximately $20,000, a fraction of the cost of purpose-built missiles.

Deployment and Strategic Impact

Ukrainian intelligence has confirmed that these upgraded munitions are already being deployed, with strikes recorded against cities such as Dnipro and Poltava, as well as other locations deep within Ukrainian territory. Reports indicate that some of these bombs have demonstrated ranges exceeding 100 to 160 kilometers in recent engagements. The introduction of these long-range glide bombs has been noted for its significant impact on the conflict, having played a key role in the destruction of Avdiivka and facilitating Russian ground advances.

The bombs are typically launched from Russian aircraft, including Su-34 and Su-35 fighters, allowing them to be deployed from beyond the effective range of many Ukrainian air defense systems.

Technical Specifications and Production Scale

The UMPK kits are adaptable to various bomb types, including the widely used FAB-500, FAB-1500, and the more recently adapted FAB-3000. The FAB-3000, for instance, carries a substantial 1,400 kilograms of explosives. These guidance modules incorporate satellite navigation systems, such as GLONASS/GPS, and inertial guidance for improved accuracy. Newer iterations, like the Kometa-M24 guidance system, are designed to be resistant to electronic warfare.

Production of the UMPK kits is primarily handled by Russia's Tactical Missiles Corporation (JSC Tactical Missiles Corporation) and NPO Basalt JSC. Reports suggest that the manufacturing output for these kits has seen a threefold increase since last year. Additionally, Russia began the mass production of FAB-3000 high-explosive aerial bombs in February 2024.

Ukrainian Countermeasures

In response to the growing threat, Ukraine has been actively working on developing its own glide bombs. Furthermore, Ukrainian forces have been enhancing their electronic warfare (EW) capabilities to jam Russian glide bombs, aiming to disrupt their guidance systems and reduce their accuracy.