“Hammer time”: A French-made bomb launched by the Ukrainians destroys a building full of Russian soldiers

The Ukrainian military published images of the destruction of a building where several Russian soldiers had taken refuge, in the Krinki area, Kherson region. Drone footage shows how the building was hit squarely by what Ukrainian sources say is a French-made special AASM “Hammer” gliding kit bomb.

The AASM “Hammer” bombs are glider kit bombs similar to those the Russians have been launching in increasing numbers against Ukraine for several months.

The airstrike took place in the Krinki area, where Ukrainian troops continue to hold a bridgehead on the left bank of the Dnieper River in Kherson region, despite waves of attacks by Russian troops.

The AASM glider kit bombs are called “Hammer” (short for Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range). French President Emmanuel Macron said on 16 January 2024 that France would deliver 50 such bombs to Ukraine per month.

The French-made bombs are equipped with folding wings, which allows them to “hover” towards the target and thus be launched from the plane from distances of more than 70 kilometers – well beyond the range of most anti-aircraft defense systems. The 250-kilogram bombs are also equipped with an inertial navigation system, a GPS system and can also be guided by laser. The French said that the MiG and Sukhoi aircraft in the equipment of the Ukrainian forces can be adapted to launch the AASM/”Hammer”.

Editor: Mihnea Lazar

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