Ukraine's Expanding Toolkit: Taking the War to Russia's Doorstep

In the early hours of August 29th, Ukrainian drones embarked on a daring mission across seven Russian regions. Some were intercepted, but others managed to reach a Russian airbase in Pskov, nearly 600 kilometers from the Ukrainian border, where they destroyed two Russian military transport aircraft and damaged two more. This audacious operation marked a significant development in the 18-month conflict between Ukraine and Russia, showcasing Ukraine's growing willingness to take the war beyond its borders.

Ukraine's expanding arsenal includes aerial and marine drones, mysterious new missiles, and sabotage groups, all aimed at Russian targets such as airfields, air defenses, and shipping. The motivations behind Ukraine's decision to broaden the conflict are multifaceted. While winning battles within Ukraine is crucial, inflicting damage on Russian assets, creating uncertainty along the border, and hitting Russian air defenses in Crimea are all part of Ukraine's strategy.

For Ukrainians who have endured relentless drone and missile attacks, this incursion into Russian territory offers a much-needed morale boost, especially when the counter-offensive in the south faces challenges gaining traction. President Volodymyr Zelensky has been unapologetic about taking the war to Russian soil, emphasizing that it is a natural consequence of the conflict's evolution.

What sets Ukraine's approach apart is its reliance on locally adapted technology and tactics instead of Western hardware. Zelensky and Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov have reassured Western donors that Ukrainian weapons won't be used against targets inside Russia, as this would be seen as an act of aggression. This commitment has been reiterated by Ukrainian officials, emphasizing the responsible use of foreign-supplied weaponry.

Ukraine's pursuit of a self-sustaining weapons industry is evident, with plans for manufacturing everything from artillery shells to long-range drones and potentially a new cruise missile. This endeavor signifies Ukraine's determination to become self-reliant in its defense capabilities.

Hints from senior Ukrainian officials suggest the development of a new cruise missile program, with successful tests demonstrating its effectiveness over long distances. Zelensky's cryptic note celebrating the missile's 700-kilometer range underscores Ukraine's intent to bolster its military capabilities.

Key to Ukraine's projection of power is its fleet of drones, both aerial and marine. These advanced drones, boasting longer ranges and greater payloads, are the result of global collaborations and contracts with indigenous manufacturers. The attack on the Pskov airbase exemplifies the fruits of these efforts, though the specifics of the operation remain shrouded in mystery.

Whether the drones were launched from within Russia or Ukrainian territory, their precision over a vast distance would signify a significant leap in navigational capabilities. The attacks on Russian airbases and naval vessels serve as an irritant to the Russian military, forcing them to allocate resources for defense against Ukrainian drone strikes.

Maritime drones pose a unique challenge for Russian naval forces, with attacks on ships in the Black Sea complicating Russia's maritime calculations. Russian vessels have resorted to mounting machine guns on their decks to deter these difficult-to-defend-against drones.

Ukraine's strategy also aims at disrupting Russian transport links, air defenses, and bases in Crimea. Recent missile strikes against Russian air defense systems and commando raids indicate Ukraine's ability to reach strategic targets deep within occupied territories.

While these long-range operations may not decisively alter the course of the war, they play a vital role in keeping the conflict alive and showcasing Ukraine's determination. Such operations serve as a means to project progress to Ukraine's supporters and maintain momentum during challenging times.

As Ukraine continues to push back against Russian aggression, its expanding toolkit, including drones and long-range missiles, underscores its commitment to defending its sovereignty and pushing Russia to reconsider its actions. While the conflict's ultimate resolution remains uncertain, Ukraine's willingness to adapt and innovate in its defense strategy serves as a testament to its resilience and determination.