900 days ago, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, but we held our ground. In this article, we will discuss the weapons that changed the course of the war in Ukraine.
From the first day of the full-scale aggression, our soldiers bravely resisted the Russian invaders. It was immediately clear that they wouldn’t have an easy ride. Fortunately, our Armed Forces of Ukraine could count on Western military support from the very beginning, and it was largely thanks to this support that we were able to repel the Kremlin’s forces.
We have already written many articles on this topic, covering the modern weaponry of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the successes of our defenders on the front lines, and the protection of civilians and infrastructure through air defense systems. You can find all of this on our platform.
Now, let’s determine which weapons have been the most helpful in this months-long struggle of the Ukrainian people.
Read also:
- Weapons of Ukrainian Victory: The 105mm 2-CT Hawkeye Self-Propelled Howitzer
- Weapons of Ukrainian Victory: Mistral Anti-Aircraft Missile System
- Weapons of Ukrainian Victory: Stridsbåt 90H (CB90) amphibious assault craft
FIM-92 Stinger and Piorun air defense systems
With the start of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine in 2022, the United States and other partner countries began actively supplying Ukraine with weapons. Among the first of these were FIM-92 Stinger systems. These systems have played a crucial role in defending against Russian air attacks. Thanks to their mobility and effectiveness, Ukrainian forces have been able to shoot down Russian aircraft and helicopters, significantly reducing the enemy’s air operations’ effectiveness.
Just to remind you, the FIM-92 Stinger is a portable surface-to-air missile system (MANPADS) of American origin, designed to target aerial threats such as aircraft and helicopters at low altitudes. It is known for its mobility, effectiveness, and ease of use. The Stinger can be launched from a single soldier’s shoulder, making it very convenient for infantry use.
Stinger systems are used not only by regular units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine but also by territorial defense forces and volunteer battalions. These MANPADS have become a crucial tool in countering enemy air attacks in various regions of the country, where Russian forces have attempted to establish air superiority. In this way, the FIM-92 Stinger has helped to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities and played a key role in deterring Russian aggression.
After the start of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine in 2022, Poland also provided military aid to Ukraine, which included Piorun missile systems. This weapon quickly proved to be an effective means of combating Russian aviation, particularly at low altitudes where it is most often used to attack Ukrainian positions.
The Piorun system has helped Ukrainian forces in their fight against Russian helicopters and aircraft. It’s also used for defense against strike drones, which Russia employs extensively. Thanks to its high accuracy and enhanced capabilities, the Piorun has become a vital part of Ukraine’s defense efforts.
These systems are used in various conditions—from open fields to urban environments—making them versatile and highly valuable for the Ukrainian Armed Forces. They have significantly reduced the risk of ground troops and infrastructure being hit by air attacks.
Read also:
- Weapons of Ukrainian victory: FIM-92 Stinger MPADS
- Weapons of Ukrainian victory: The military praise the Piorun MPADS
Bayraktar TB2 drones
While the Polish Pioruns effectively dealt with aerial targets, in the first weeks of the invasion, these Turkish drones inflicted significant damage on Russian ground forces.
These tactical combat drones targeted armored vehicles, command posts, ammunition depots, and other objectives. Significantly, these drones allowed Ukraine to repel the initial wave of attacks and, in the following months, only confirmed their exceptional combat capabilities.
The Bayraktar TB2 is also actively used for reconnaissance, providing Ukrainian forces with up-to-date information on enemy movements and enabling more effective planning of their operations. Due to its technological features, such as high accuracy and the ability to evade enemy air defense systems, the Bayraktar TB2 has proven to be an effective and crucial tool in the fight against Russian forces.
This UAV has also become a symbol of resistance and resilience for Ukrainian forces, gaining significant popularity among Ukrainians and becoming a hero in cultural memes and songs.
Read also: Invasion of Ukraine: Bayraktar TB2 strike UAV review
HIMARS launchers
HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) is an American high-mobility artillery rocket system designed for precision strikes over long distances. It can launch various types of rockets, including those with guided warheads, making it highly effective in modern combat conditions.
HIMARS has played a key role in Ukraine’s defense since its introduction to the Ukrainian Armed Forces in 2022. This has been made possible through military aid from the US and other allies. HIMARS has proven to be a critical weapon for delivering precision strikes on Russian military targets at significant distances. The arrival of HIMARS launchers is undoubtedly one of the most important moments of the war in Ukraine. Thanks to this rocket artillery, the Ukrainian Armed Forces gained new means to engage the aggressor from up to 90 kilometers away and quickly took advantage of this capability, delivering precise strikes deep behind enemy lines.
HIMARS is used to destroy enemy ammunition depots, command posts, logistical routes, and even fortified positions that were previously inaccessible to other artillery. Thanks to its mobility, HIMARS can quickly move from one position to another, making it a difficult target for counter-battery fire from the enemy.
One of the most notable examples of HIMARS use includes strikes on ammunition depots and other key targets deep within territory occupied by Russian forces. These strikes have significantly reduced the Russians’ capabilities for offensive operations by destroying large stocks of ammunition and fuel.
Additionally, HIMARS assists Ukrainian forces in conducting successful counterattacks, particularly during offensive operations in southern and eastern Ukraine. The system’s effectiveness, combined with its precision and long range, enhances Ukraine’s ability to resist and carry out counterattacks effectively.
Read also: How can M142 HIMARS and M270 rocket systems change the course of war in Ukraine?
Krab, PzH 2000, CAESAR, M109 Self-propelled howitzer
The war in Ukraine has intensified the use of modern self-propelled artillery systems (SPGs), significantly enhancing the capabilities of Ukrainian artillery. These systems include the Polish Krab, the German PzH 2000, the French CAESAR, and the American M109. Each of these SPGs has its own features and advantages, making them effective tools in the fight against Russian invaders.
In 2022, Poland handed over several Krab systems to Ukraine. This is a 155 mm self-propelled howitzer built on the chassis of the Korean K9 Thunder self-propelled artillery system. Our defenders use it to attack important enemy military targets, including ammunition depots, command posts, and equipment clusters.
The PzH 2000 (Panzerhaubitze 2000) is a German self-propelled howitzer with a 155 mm caliber, considered one of the most advanced in the world. It features an automated loading system that enables rapid and precise firing. The PzH 2000 can fire up to 30-40 km with standard ammunition and up to 60 km with specialized rounds. Ukrainian forces have highly valued this system for its reliability, accuracy, and the ability to quickly relocate after firing, which reduces the risk of being targeted by counter-battery fire.
We first heard about the CAESAR self-propelled artillery system on the front lines in the spring of 2022 when France provided Ukraine with several of these units. This powerful 155 mm self-propelled howitzer on a wheeled chassis is used by our forces to support infantry units and destroy important enemy targets at long distances. It is considered effective for carrying out rapid artillery strikes followed by a quick withdrawal to a new position.
The American self-propelled howitzer M109 has also become highly popular within the Ukrainian Armed Forces. It has been actively used by Ukrainian troops since the beginning of the war, particularly for supporting offensive operations and holding back enemy forces. This SPG is a reliable and time-tested system, capable of effectively performing tasks in modern combat conditions.
The Krab, PzH 2000, CAESAR, and M109 self-propelled howitzers have significantly enhanced the firepower of Ukrainian artillery. They allow for precise strikes at long distances, greatly strengthening the ability of the Ukrainian Armed Forces to effectively operate on the battlefield by destroying enemy targets before they can inflict damage. These systems also provide high mobility, enabling rapid repositioning after firing, which reduces the risk of being hit by counter-battery fire from the enemy.
Read also:
- Weapons of Ukrainian Victory: All about AHS Krab howitzers
- Weapons of Ukrainian Victory: Modern PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzers
- Weapons of Ukrainian Victory: the French Caesar self-propelled howitzer
- Weapons of Ukrainian Victory: M109 Paladin self-propelled howitzer
Marine kamikaze drones
Marine kamikaze drones are unmanned devices used to strike enemy ships, maritime targets, and infrastructure. Equipped with explosive charges, these drones can cause significant damage by executing high-speed attacks. In Ukraine, such drones have become an innovative tool in the fight against Russian military presence in the Black Sea.
Undoubtedly, the marine kamikaze drones developed and created in Ukraine are among the most significant weapons that emerged during the war with Russia. They have not only driven Russian ships away from the Ukrainian coast but have also nearly pushed them out of the Black Sea, which became the site of the Kremlin’s greatest defeat during the invasion. Today, thanks to Ukrainian marine kamikaze drones, the number of Moscow’s military ships operating in the region can be counted on one hand.
One of the most notable attacks carried out using marine kamikaze drones was the strike on the Russian fleet in Sevastopol harbor in October 2022. This attack damaged several Russian military ships, significantly affecting the Russian fleet’s ability to operate in the Black Sea.
These drones have also been used to target other important military assets, such as floating platforms and infrastructure supporting military operations. Their effectiveness has made marine kamikaze drones a crucial tool in the arsenal of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
Marine kamikaze drones demonstrate how innovative technologies can alter the course of combat, especially in conflicts where parties employ asymmetric warfare tactics.
Read also: Weapons of Ukrainian Victory: Sonobot 5 surface drones
Bradley infantry fighting vehicle
The Bradley is one of the most renowned infantry fighting vehicles in the world, and its appearance on the battlefield in Ukraine has been a significant development.
The Bradley has quickly proven to be an effective tool for supporting infantry and engaging enemy armored vehicles. It is used in various combat operations, including defensive and offensive actions, particularly in eastern and southern Ukraine. With its anti-tank missiles and powerful cannon, the Bradley has become a crucial asset for destroying enemy tanks, armored personnel carriers, and other equipment.
One of the key advantages of the Bradley is its ability to protect the crew and dismounts from enemy fire, which is especially important in intense combat conditions. Additionally, the vehicle’s high mobility allows it to maneuver effectively on the battlefield and quickly change positions.
Bradley vehicles are also used to provide fire support for infantry during attacks, enhancing the effectiveness of offensive operations. Its advanced fire control and navigation systems allow for effective coordination of actions on the battlefield.
Overall, the Bradley infantry fighting vehicles have significantly strengthened the capabilities of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in countering the enemy under challenging combat conditions.
Read also: Weapons of Ukrainian Victory: M2 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle
Stryker armored vehicles
The arrival of the Stryker in Ukraine has been a crucial element of support from Western allies to the Ukrainian military. These armored vehicles are used for transporting infantry, providing fire support, and conducting reconnaissance and medical tasks.
One of the main advantages of the Stryker is its versatility and ability to adapt to various combat conditions. For example, the Stryker MGS, with its powerful armament, can effectively support infantry during offensive operations, while the Stryker ATGM versions, equipped with anti-tank missiles, allow for engaging enemy armor at long ranges. Additionally, the Stryker provides high mobility, enabling Ukrainian forces to rapidly move across the battlefield and respond quickly to changing situations.
The Stryker is also used for medical evacuation tasks, significantly enhancing the level of medical support on the front lines. Its armor and speed allow it to safely transport the wounded out of harm’s way.
Overall, the Stryker has greatly strengthened the capabilities of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in various aspects, from supporting infantry and engaging enemy armor to evacuating casualties. Its presence on the battlefield in Ukraine has contributed to increased operational effectiveness and strengthened the country’s defensive capabilities.
Read also: Weapons of Ukrainian Victory: Stryker armored personnel carrier
Storm Shadow / SCALP EG missiles
Another significant development in the fight against Russian aggression was the decision to provide Ukraine with Storm Shadow missiles. It’s noteworthy that, after months of requests for these powerful missiles, it was not the U.S. but the United Kingdom that first took this step. The Storm Shadow cruise missiles, with a range of 550 km, allowed Ukraine to extend the war hundreds of kilometers beyond the front lines, primarily targeting Crimea. This enabled the Ukrainian Armed Forces to strike supply points and command centers, complicating the logistical support for the Russian army.
The high precision and long range of the Storm Shadow/SCALP EG missiles allow Ukrainian forces to strike critical targets well beyond the front lines. This capability significantly impacts the ability of Russian forces to conduct offensive operations. The use of Storm Shadow missiles enhances Ukraine’s defensive capabilities by reducing risks to both Ukrainian military personnel and civilians.
Read also: Weapons of Ukrainian victory: Storm Shadow / SCALP-EG cruise missiles
Patriot, NASAMS, Iris-T
The support from Western allies, including the delivery of advanced air defense systems such as Patriot, NASAMS, and IRIS-T, has been crucial for Ukraine. These systems play a key role in defending Ukrainian airspace from Russian missile strikes, aviation, and drones. The provision of these advanced air defense systems significantly reduced the effectiveness of Russian missile and drone attacks, marking a pivotal moment in the conflict.
The advanced air defense systems like Patriot, NASAMS, and IRIS-T have significantly enhanced Ukraine’s ability to defend against Russian aviation and missile attacks. These systems offer multi-layered protection, effectively countering both aircraft and missile strikes. Their deployment represents a crucial step in strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities and ensuring the safety of its citizens.
The leader here is undoubtedly the Patriot system, which Ukraine is using not only for defensive purposes. This weapon could have been used to take down the valuable Russian A-50 early warning aircraft, worth several hundred million dollars.
It’s also worth noting that, while the arrival of Patriot, NASAMS, IRIS-T, and other Western air defense systems has significantly helped Ukraine, the country’s needs in this area are still very great. Our military says that more than 20 Patriot systems would be needed to fully protect Ukrainian airspace. Currently, we have only a few of these missile defense systems, which are desperately needed to protect the skies. Every day, civilian casualties occur, and our infrastructure and industrial facilities are being destroyed due to enemy shelling.
Read also:
- Weapons of Ukrainian Victory: Review of the Patriot air defense system
- Weapons of Ukrainian Victory: NASAMS air defense that protects Washington
- Weapons of Ukrainian Victory: Iris-T SLM for Ukraine from Germany
- Weapons of Ukrainian Victory: The SAMP/T Anti-Aircraft Missile Complex
MGM-140 ATACMS missiles
Ukraine received MGM-140 ATACMS missiles from the United States to enhance its capabilities in countering Russia. These missiles allow Ukrainian forces to strike critical targets deep behind enemy lines at long distances, significantly increasing the effectiveness of combat operations. ATACMS are particularly useful for destroying command posts, logistics centers, and other targets far from the front line.
Ukraine waited for more than two years for the ballistic ATACMS missiles. Their use in recent weeks has allowed for the destruction of a significant number of Russian air defense systems. The missiles, equipped with cluster warheads, have also been effective in attacking airfields and the aircraft stationed there. Given the significant successes of this weapon, one can only lament that it arrived so late in the fight. It’s also worth noting that Ukraine can only use this weapon on Ukrainian territory occupied by the enemy. Therefore, ATACMS still await their full destructive potential in this war. We hope that, sooner or later, Washington will lift this restriction and allow the use of these missiles to strike targets within Russia. After all, their range, depending on the modification, is between 165 and 300 km. This range encompasses a large portion of Russia’s defensive potential. We eagerly anticipate this development.
Read also: Weapons of Ukrainian Victory: ATACMS missiles for HIMARS and MLRS
R-360 Neptune missile
We conclude our list with a gem of Ukrainian defense industry. Let me remind you that the R-360 “Neptune” is a Ukrainian anti-ship cruise missile developed by the Kyiv-based Design Bureau “Luch”. It is designed to target ships such as cruisers, destroyers, frigates, corvettes, landing ships, and other maritime targets, as well as for striking coastal targets.
The “Neptune” missile gained worldwide recognition after its successful use during the Russo-Ukrainian War. In April 2022, using the “Neptune” system, the flagship of the Russian Black Sea Fleet, the cruiser “Moskva,” was hit and sank. This event marked a significant success for Ukraine, demonstrating the effectiveness of its own defense developments.
The “Neptune” missile significantly enhances Ukraine’s defense capabilities, providing protection for maritime borders and striking important naval targets of the adversary. I have a feeling that we’ll hear more about this anti-ship cruise missile, and that more Russian ships will meet their end following successful hits by it.
Today, we’ve tried to highlight the most successful and important weapons of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. However, there are many other powerful tools for striking at Russian forces. In the midst of intense battles with the occupiers, every precision shell, every combat vehicle, every air defense system, every cruise missile, combat landing craft, and fighter jet is critically important. We sincerely thank our Western friends and partners for their help and support. The invaders have nowhere to run from retribution. Glory to Ukraine! Death to the enemies! Glory to the Armed Forces of Ukraine!
If you’re interested in articles and news about aviation and space technology, we invite you to check out our new project, AERONAUT.media.
Read also:
- ‘Neptunes’ knocked out ‘Moskva’ cruiser: All about these anti-ship cruise missiles
- Weapons of Ukrainian Victory: BAE Systems CV90 infantry fighting vehicle
- Weapons of Ukrainian Victory: Aspide Anti-Aircraft Missile System