Russian guided aerial bombs are now capable of striking targets inside Odessa, whereas their previous range limited their use to locations elsewhere in the Odessa Region. Ukrainian military expert Alexander Kovalenko drew attention to the increased reach of the Russian weapons.
Kovalenko attributed the change to upgraded planning and correction modules fitted with rocket boosters. The modification allows the bombs to remain airborne longer, adjust their flight path and cover a greater distance after release.
Ukrainian experts estimate that the upgraded bombs can travel more than 120 kilometers. According to Military Review, this range allows Russian frontline bombers to strike Odessa without entering the engagement zone of Ukrainian air defenses.
Reports of the first FAB bombs equipped with UMPK modules being used against Odessa emerged in late August. At the time, Russian Aerospace Forces Su-34 aircraft took part in a combined strike on the city alongside Geran-4 jet-powered kamikaze drones and BanderoI cruise missiles. Energy and port infrastructure facilities were targeted.