Two months after the first appearance of the wreckage of a new type of Russian glide bomb in the war in Ukraine, new imagery has emerged showing the complete weapon, including video of examples being launched. The UMPB D-30SN winged precision-guided bomb is now better established in Russian service, posing additional challenges for Ukrainian air defense operators. Photos show the bomb mounted under the wing of a Russian Su-34 Fullback strike aircraft, highlighting its relatively diminutive size and refined design compared to previous models. The video from the cockpit of a Su-34 shows the bomb being launched, with the wings deploying soon after.
The UMPB D-30SN appears to be a more integrated and sophisticated weapon compared to the previous UMPK, causing difficulties for Ukrainian air defenses since its introduction. The new weapon is similar to the U.S.-made GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb and may potentially have a powerplant for increased range, although there is currently no evidence of this. Rumors suggest that the bomb could be used for ground-based rocket artillery as well, but this has not been confirmed. The weapon is believed to use both inertial and satellite navigation, providing accuracy and resistance to electronic warfare jamming.
Russia’s demand for standoff weapons to counter Ukrainian air defenses is evident, as seen in the development of the UMPK and now the UMPB D-30SN. While the destruction of Russian aircraft by Ukraine cannot be independently verified, the need for weapons that can strike targets behind the front lines remains high. The UMPB D-30SN provides a lower-cost solution compared to other weapons options, addressing the limitations of Russia’s ability to manufacture high-technology weapons without access to Western components. The weapon poses a concern for Ukraine as it awaits new Western-supplied air defense systems.
The addition of the UMPB D-30SN to the Russian armory raises concerns for Ukraine, as even the crude UMPKs have been described as difficult to shoot down. With Russia expanding its campaign and addressing evolving anti-aircraft defenses in Ukraine, the UMPB D-30SN is expected to play a significant role in indirect attacks on Ukrainian targets. Kyiv’s need for additional and advanced air defense systems to counter the threat posed by the new weapon will only grow as Russia continues its operations in the region. The weapon provides Russian aircraft with a low-cost means of launching accurate attacks on Ukrainian targets, emphasizing the importance of enhanced air defense capabilities for Ukraine.
