Swedish analysis details long-range weapon threats in Russia-Ukraine war

A technical assessment by Swedish daily Dagens Nyheter has detailed the distinct operational characteristics and defensive challenges posed by long-range weapon systems used in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

The analysis highlights how different threat categories strain air defense networks in unique ways. Ballistic missiles travel on high-altitude trajectories at extreme speeds, granting defenders minimal reaction time during their terminal descent. Conversely, low-flying cruise missiles utilize terrain masking and maneuverability to bypass radar coverage. Additionally, uncrewed aerial vehicles are frequently deployed in mass swarms to overwhelm radar tracking capabilities and deplete stockpiles of expensive interceptor missiles.

Military experts noted that counteracting these mixed aerial threats requires integrated, multi-layered defensive systems capable of detecting and engaging targets across varying altitudes and speeds.

Sources: Dagens Nyheter.