Russia's January 20th Attack on Ukraine Featured a First: Repurposed RM-48U Training Missiles

January 20th Attack on Ukraine

According to Главком: In a significant escalation of tactics, Russia likely deployed repurposed RM-48U training missiles against Ukraine for the first time during an overnight assault on January 20. These missiles, converted from decommissioned 5V55 or 48N6 models, can carry a warhead payload of 133 to 180 kilograms. Notably, at least one of the RM-48U missiles managed to penetrate Ukrainian air defenses. This development highlights Russia's efforts to expand its arsenal by converting older, non-combat stockpiles into operational weapons.

Weaponry Deployed

The large-scale attack involved a diverse and substantial array of weaponry, including:

• One 'Tsirkon' anti-ship missile
• 18 ballistic missiles, including 'Iskander-M' and 'S-300' types
• 15 Kh-101 cruise missiles
• 339 one-way attack drones of various types, such as Shahed, 'Gerbera', and 'Italmas'

This multi-vector strike represents a notable phase in the conflict, showcasing the adversary's evolving capabilities, particularly the novel use of converted training missiles. The effectiveness of these adaptations in future engagements remains to be seen. The deployment of the RM-48U suggests Russia is actively seeking new methods to augment its military potential, while the sheer volume and variety of munitions used in a single attack may indicate an intent to overwhelm defenses for strategic gains. Monitoring the response from Ukraine and the international community to these new challenges is crucial, as it will influence the ongoing trajectory of the war.