Russian Su‑30 losses raise questions about drone strategy
The Russians deployed Su-30 fighters to counter Ukrainian naval drones, although older models like the Be-12 and Ka-29 might have been more suitable, according to the Ukrainian portal Defense Express. Analysts suggest this decision may have been driven by a fear of the drones.
The Russian armed forces opted to use Su-30 fighters in response to the threat posed by Ukrainian naval drones. This decision is puzzling, as older models such as the Be-12 or Ka-29 appear more appropriate for this task, as per analysts at Defense Express. They point out that the selection of the Su-30 may relate to its speed and maneuverability.
Russians used fighters, although they have "more suitable machines"
It's notable that in recent days, the Ukrainian naval drone Magura V7 successfully downed two Russian Su-30 fighters. This incident marks the first time such a construct has taken down aircraft. Defense Express questions why the Russians employed Su-30s against the Magura V7 threat, given they possess "more suitable machines for this role," like Be-12 patrol planes or Ka-29 helicopters. The report notes, "Given the cost of Su-30s, the Be-12 and Ka-29 may be considered expendable."
This would not be the first occasion these older models were used against Ukrainian naval drones. Defense Express highlights that in December 2023, there were reports of Russians employing both the Be-12 and Ka-29 against Ukrainian drones. These older models, while less modern, would incur fewer losses if destroyed. However, after the Ukrainian Magura V5 drone downed a Russian Mi-8, the Russians began using the more advanced Su-30s.
It's also important to differentiate between the capabilities of all three constructs in combating naval drones. The maximum speed of the Ka-29 is approximately 300 km/h, the Be-12 can reach up to 320 km/h, while the Su-30 boasts a speed of 1,350 km/h. This makes the Su-30 a substantially more useful tool compared to the other models.
Su-30 fighters in clash with Magura drones
The Su-30 are fast and maneuverable fighters but had to attack traditionally using guns and bombs. This tactic proved costly for the Russians, as their forces lost two Su-30s while attempting to eliminate the Magura V7 drones. This necessitates the exploration of new methods to counter Ukrainian drones.
The success of Ukrainian drones equipped with rocket armament suggests the burgeoning need for the development of modern weapon systems capable of effectively combating such threats. Defense Express proposes that the future could belong to more advanced long-range missiles integrated with drones.
Defense Express concludes that the rise of drones with rocket armament is revolutionizing the rules of naval combat. Consequently, global arms manufacturers will need to focus on creating precise systems to effectively contend with small but formidable targets.
