The Russian military constructed aircraft shelters in Kursk in anticipation of potential ATACMS missile strikes, but their efforts were ultimately misplaced.
According to Defense Express and WP Tech, construction began in October 2024, weeks before the United States formally approved the use of ATACMS strikes on Russian territory.
Despite their preparations, Ukraine’s strategy took an unexpected turn.
Misplaced Preparations in Kursk
The Russian military began building reinforced hangars at Chalino Airport near Kursk, assuming that ATACMS strikes would target tactical aviation airports.
At least five hangars were constructed in an effort to shield military aircraft. Before the war with Ukraine, this dual-use airport lacked such shelters entirely.
But Ukraine’s military chose a completely different target.
Instead of hitting Kursk, ATACMS missiles struck the Bryansk region, where no similar preparations or fortifications had been made.
Despite earlier warnings about the potential for ATACMS attacks, the Russian military delayed construction of the hangars.
Reports from Russian war correspondents in July 2024 suggested plans for shelter construction at tactical aviation airports, but delays meant the work did not begin until several months later.
This lack of urgency suggests that the threat of ATACMS missiles was not taken seriously enough until it was too late.
The Power of ATACMS
ATACMS missiles pose a challenge to the Russian military.
With a range of 300 kilometers, these precision-guided weapons can strike targets at speeds exceeding Mach 3 (over 3,600 km/h), reaching their destination within minutes. Their combination of speed, range, and accuracy makes them extremely difficult to intercept.
The missiles’ impact radius spans hundreds of meters, and current defense systems are largely ineffective against them.
As a result, ATACMS missiles are more than just a tactical tool—they are a strategic weapon capable of shifting the dynamics of the conflict.
