Despite receiving modern F-16 fighter jets, Ukraine continues to rely heavily on Soviet-designed aircraft like the MiG-29 and Su-27, which form the backbone of its air force.
Vital for Air Defense
To help Ukraine maintain its defense capabilities, Western nations have stepped in to assist with the production of crucial Soviet-era missiles, specifically the R-27 air-to-air missiles and S-300 air defense system missiles, according to WP.
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin confirmed that companies in Europe and the United States are working to produce new versions of the R-27 missile, which was originally designed in the 1970s.
These missiles are vital for Ukraine’s air defense as they are used not only in air-to-air combat but also for intercepting cruise missiles and drones.
With Ukraine's stockpile of R-27 missiles running low due to the prolonged war, this collaboration with the West ensures that Ukraine’s air force can continue to operate effectively.
Supply Nearly Depleted
Rather than integrating Western missiles into Soviet-era jets, experts found that producing updated versions of the R-27 would be a more efficient solution. These new missiles, enhanced with modern technology, will be fully compatible with Ukraine’s aging fleet, providing an essential lifeline in the fight against Russian forces.
In addition to the R-27, efforts are also underway to produce missiles for Ukraine’s S-300 air defense system.
The S-300, another Soviet-era weapon, remains one of Ukraine’s most important tools for defending against aerial threats. However, after more than two years of intense fighting, Ukraine’s supply of S-300 missiles is also nearing depletion.
Western factories will soon begin producing these missiles, potentially with upgrades that could improve their effectiveness.
