Kherson Under Fire: The Deployment of Russia's Grom-1 Missiles

Discovery of High-Tech Arsenal

In a significant escalation of hostilities, Russian military forces have employed sophisticated Grom-1 air-to-surface missile systems in an offensive targeting the heart of Kherson. Debris from the Grom-1, identified amidst the ruins of the attack, points to Russia's use of state-of-the-art weaponry against urban centers. Launched into operational use in 2013, the Grom-1 embodies the latest in military technology, with features that distinguish it as a formidable instrument of warfare.

Grom-1's Technical Prowess Unveiled

The Grom-1 missile system is equipped with deployable wings and advanced targeting capabilities, underscoring the technological advancements in Russia's arsenal. The missile, measuring 4.2 meters in length and weighing 594 kg, is designed for precision strikes. It carries a substantial 315-kg fragmentation-explosive warhead, propelled by a dual-engine system that includes a booster and a reducer, highlighting its efficiency and lethality. The Grom-1's design allows for compatibility with various Russian aircraft, including the Su-34, Su-35, and the cutting-edge Su-57, enhancing its versatility on the battlefield. With an operational range reported between 70 to 120 kilometers, the Grom-1 stands as a testament to the expanding reach of air-to-surface weaponry.

Emerging Trends in Weapon Usage

The attack on Kherson marks a notable instance of the Grom-1 missile's deployment in the ongoing conflict following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Previous unsuccessful attempts to utilize the Grom-1, such as a malfunction leading to a crash in Donetsk in March 2023, have been documented. This recent event in Kherson represents a pivotal moment, confirming the operational use of Grom missiles on this front. Prior discoveries of such missile remains in Donetsk and Kharkiv regions had hinted at their presence, but the Kherson attack solidifies their active role in the conflict, raising concerns over the escalation of military tactics and the potential for increased civilian and infrastructural damage.