In the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the use of sophisticated glide-bombs has become a decisive weapon, making it increasingly difficult for the Ukrainian forces to defend themselves. With limited air-defense capabilities and lacking crucial ammunition, Ukraine finds itself vulnerable to the barrage of KAB glide-bombs launched by Russian air force Sukhoi fighter-bombers.

The devastating impact of these glide-bombs was witnessed during the recent battle for Avdiivka, where Ukrainian defenses were systematically demolished. The strategic use of KABs paved the way for Russian army assault groups to advance, despite facing significant casualties.

KAB glide-bombs, equipped with pop-out wings and satellite-guidance kits, are proving to be more effective than explosive drones or even traditional artillery. Ukrainian air-defense systems and missiles are in short supply, and the ex-Soviet fighter jets lack the necessary range to engage the glide-bombers. Additionally, Ukraine's hoped-for acquisition of ex-European F-16s, which could provide a fighting chance, are yet to arrive.

The Russian air force has been dropping more than a hundred KAB glide-bombs daily from distances of up to 40 miles, decimating Ukrainian defenses. These strategic bombardments were a major factor in the retreat of the Ukrainian garrison in Avdiivka last month, coupled with the detrimental cut-off of aid from the U.S. Congress.

According to reports, the Russian air force intensified their use of glide-bombing techniques, targeting whichever town the Russian army aimed to seize. Preceding ground assaults with devastating airstrikes, the combination of glide-bombs, artillery shelling, and drone deployments created a considerable strain on the Ukrainian forces, already struggling with limited ammunition.

The Ukrainian air force initially attempted to counter the Russian glide-bombers, successfully shooting down 13 Russian Sukhoi Su-34s and Sukhoi Su-35s within 13 days using American-made Patriot air-defense missiles. However, their efforts were severely hampered when a skilled Russian drone-operator spotted a moving Ukrainian Patriot team and directed an Iskander ground-launched ballistic missile towards them, resulting in the destruction of crucial air-defense launchers.

The Ukrainian air force, not receiving aid from Russia-friendly Republican lawmakers, faces significant challenges in replacing the lost Patriot launchers. With only a limited number of launchers, the balance of power has shifted as Russian technicians have improved the range of KAB glide-bombs from 25 miles to 40 miles, rendering Ukraine's air-defense systems ineffective.

While Ukraine possesses MiG and Sukhoi fighters capable of detecting aerial targets, their engagement range falls short against the extended reach of the glide-bomb armed Russian jets. Without electronic jammers, Ukrainian fighters are extremely vulnerable while flying near Russian-controlled air space, discouraging them from engaging directly.

The acquisition of Lockheed Martin F-16s from Denmark, The Netherlands, and Norway could potentially provide Ukrainian commanders with new options. Equipped with advanced self-protection systems, these F-16s have the capability to safely approach the front line and neutralize glide-bomb armed Russian jets. Their AN/APG-66(V)2 radars can detect targets up to 70 miles away, allowing for missile launches at a safer distance.

However, it is important to note that deploying F-16s is not without risk. Ukraine may potentially lose these aircraft and their pilots. The sacrifice lies in the hope that the strategic use of F-16s, coupled with advanced air-to-air missiles, will counter the threat posed by Russian glide-bombs and provide Ukrainian forces with a fighting chance to defend their positions.

In conclusion, as the conflict continues, the extensive use of KAB glide-bombs remains a challenge for Ukrainian forces. To effectively counter this threat, additional procurement and deployment of Patriot air-defense systems and F-16s equipped with advanced air-to-air missiles may be the only viable solution, as identified by experts at Frontelligence Insight.