Introduction to the DefenceDetective Newsletter
The DefenceDetective Newsletter provides weekly insights and analysis on the latest developments in military technology, strategy, and foreign policy. Recently, a Ukrainian MiG-29 Fulcrum has been spotted armed with an air-launched munition similar to the Russian UMPK, a guided glide bomb that has caused significant difficulties for Ukrainian air defenses.
Ukrainian MiG-29 Fulcrum with Guided Glide Bomb
The appearance of the weapon on the MiG underscores Ukraine’s efforts to field standoff munitions, protect its air assets, and launch effective attacks on Russian targets. The development highlights Ukraine’s push to introduce more advanced homegrown weapons, reducing its reliance on Western-supplied ordnance.
Technical Specifications of the Guided Glide Bomb
The Ukrainian weapon has the same underslung wing kit as the Russian UMPK, which involves flying surfaces popping out after the bomb is released. The bomb appears to incorporate a standard free-fall bomb attached to a self-contained ‘flying device,’ with wings and a navigation package. Judging by the size of the bomb, it is apparently in the 500-kilogram category.
Testing and Development of the Guided Glide Bomb
Initial tests of the munition emerged in June 2025, with reports of the weapon being tested on the Su-24 Fencer strike aircraft. Ukrainian media reported that the new weapon achieved a range of 60 kilometers in tests, with the aim of extending this to 80 kilometers. The developer plans to introduce undisclosed French-made technology to improve the weapon’s guidance package and resistance to electronic warfare jamming.
Advantages and Limitations of the Guided Glide Bomb
The locally developed UMPK analog will provide Ukraine with a lower-cost solution for standoff strikes, allowing the country to keep up the pace of surgical strikes on targets on and just across the front lines. However, the Russian UMPK has been criticized for its poor performance and high failure rate, which may be a concern for the Ukrainian-developed analog.
Comparison with Western-Supplied Munitions
The Ukrainian-developed guided glide bomb will provide a more affordable solution compared to Western-supplied precision-guided standoff ordnance, such as the JDAM-ER and SDB. The arrival of the Extended Range Attack Munition (ERAM) in the coming weeks will provide Ukraine with a powerful new standoff strike capability, but the country’s demand for locally developed solutions remains high.
Conclusion
The DefenceDetective Newsletter will continue to provide updates on the latest developments in military technology and strategy. The Ukrainian-developed guided glide bomb has the potential to reduce Ukraine’s reliance on Western-supplied ordnance and provide a more affordable solution for standoff strikes. As the conflict continues, the importance of locally developed solutions will only continue to grow.