Russia's missile output soars amidst strategic constraints
Russia produces roughly 150 long-range missiles each month but uses far fewer. Experts from the Ukrainian portal Defence Express analyse the reasons for this situation, pointing to possible logistical and strategic limitations.
According to estimates, Russia produces around 150 long-range missiles a month, but their usage is much lower. In recent days, Russia has conducted three major attacks on Ukraine, using various means including missiles and Shahed drones. A total of 64 missiles were launched over the course of two days.
Accumulating stockpiles or overstating data
Experts from Defence Express note that the rate of missile usage does not match their production. This might suggest that Russia is either stockpiling these resources or the actual production data is overstated. Over a month, Russia should have accumulated significant reserves, yet only 64 missiles were used.
One reason for the limited missile usage may be issues with carriers and the organisation of attacks. Russia might be reluctant to use naval vessels and have limited capabilities to repair them (for this reason, they may have limited attacks involving Kalibr missiles launched from naval units).
Regarding the conservation of the Kh-101, it suggests an attempt to protect the Tu-95MS aircraft (carriers of the Kh-101) from destruction. Analysts note that Russia launches as few as three missiles per attack instead of the eight for which the mentioned aircraft are equipped.
Additionally, a Ukrainian Armed Forces attack on the Engels air base in March 2025 may have impacted Russia's ability to prepare missiles for use. Russia now keeps its aircraft at distant bases, which limits their availability.
"On paper," Russia has about 40-50 Tu-95MS bombers, but not all are flightworthy. Of the 13-18 known Tu-160s, six are currently under repair or modernisation. This limits Russia's combat capabilities.
