Third, the conversion of the Su-35S, and increasingly the Su-30SM2 fleets,
to rely primarily on the long-range R-37M (NATO codename: RS-AA-13) air-to-air missile – instead of the relatively limited medium-range R-77-1 (RS-AA-12b) – has significantly contributed to increasing the threat that they can theoretically pose to NATO air operations. Equally, the Su-34 fleet has been essentially re-rolled since early 2024 to focus on the delivery of massed glide bombs using UPMK and UPMB (Unified Gliding and Correction Module and Universal Planning Module for Bombs) wing and guidance kits to extend the range and add precision guidance to FAB-500, FAB-1500 and FAB-3000 heavy demolition bombs. These weapons can be delivered from
possible in some conditions. Hundreds of these weapons are employed every week against Ukrainian forces across the frontlines, and due to their heavy explosive payloads, adequate accuracy and sheer quantities, they are highly effective at demolishing strongpoints, trench lines and command centres.
