A recent video shows Ukrainian forces using the U.S.-supplied HIMARS rocket artillery system to destroy a Russian Buk-M3 air defense system in Russia’s Kursk region.
Two Key Components Hit
The footage reveals the impact on two key components of the Buk-M3: the 9A316M launcher and the 9A317M radar vehicle.
On September 23, Reuters reported that while Russian forces have managed to slow down Ukrainian advances in the Kursk region, they have been unable to halt the offensive completely. The use of Western weapons, such as the HIMARS, has proven to be a game-changer for Ukrainian forces.
The HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) is known for its precision and long-range capabilities, often utilizing GMLRS (Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System) rockets with a range of up to 80 kilometers (50 miles), according to WP.
These rockets are guided by inertial and satellite navigation systems, providing pinpoint accuracy against designated targets.
Targeting Aircrafts and Drones
The Russian Buk-M3, which has been in service since 2015, is an advanced air defense system capable of targeting aircraft, drones, and even ballistic missiles. Despite being one of Russia's most modern air defense systems, the loss of the Buk-M3 is significant, as Russia’s stock of such systems is limited.
This incident is part of a broader Ukrainian strategy that includes the use of NATO-supplied equipment. Reports indicate that Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region are also employing American Stryker armored vehicles, Polish Oncilla APCs, PT-91 Twardy tanks, Challenger 2 tanks, Leopard 2A6 tanks, and German Marder 1A3 infantry fighting vehicles.
