According to The New York Times, citing U.S. officials, Ukraine has already used up the majority of the 500 ATACMS missiles provided by the United States. Only about 50 remain, which likely explains the reduction in the intensity of strikes on enemy targets. Future supplies could be affected by a potential change in U.S. leadership, with Donald Trump expected to halt the support for new missile transfers for strikes on Russian territory if he comes to power.
Although the ATACMS missiles haven’t changed the strategic course of the fighting, they have caused significant damage to Russia’s military infrastructure. NATO Admiral Rob Bauer stated that these strikes have destroyed weapons factories and ammunition depots, forcing Russian forces to move their logistics further away from the front lines. While the U.S. and NATO acknowledge the effectiveness of these missiles, they note that Ukraine could have used them more selectively.
Russia Doubles Production of “Shahed” Drones
Analysts from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), citing Ukrainian intelligence data, report that the factory in the special economic zone of “Alabuga” (Republic of Tatarstan) produced 5,760 “Shahed” kamikaze drones from January to September 2024—twice the number produced in all of 2023. Additionally, the facility has signed a contract to manufacture another 6,000 drones by September 2025.
Russia is also actively developing low-tech decoy drones that mimic “Shaheds” to bypass Ukraine’s air defense systems. It is projected that Russia may produce up to 10,000 of these decoys by the end of 2024. This poses a challenge for Ukraine’s air defense, which must adapt to the enemy’s new tactics.
Destruction of “Shahed” Storage Facility in the Oryol Region
The Ukrainian General Staff reported a successful attack on a storage, servicing, and repair facility for “Shahed” drones in the Oryol region on December 26. The strike, using Storm Shadow missiles, hit several concrete bunkers, significantly reducing Russia’s ability to carry out drone attacks on Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure.
According to ASTRA publication, at least three Storm Shadow missiles hit their target. The attack resulted in the deaths of two Russian soldiers, with seven others injured. This operation represents a significant step in weakening Russia’s strike potential.
Context of Russian Aggression
Russia’s growing production of drones and missiles demonstrates the Kremlin’s attempt to compensate for losses and continue its war of attrition against Ukraine. While the international community is increasing its support for Kyiv, Russia is adapting to new challenges by utilizing its resources for a prolonged confrontation.
Ukraine, in turn, continues to improve its countermeasures, including targeted strikes on critical enemy infrastructure. The destruction of the “Shahed” storage facility is an example of the precise work of Ukraine’s armed forces, dealing substantial blows to Russia’s military infrastructure.
Additional Information on Russian War Crimes
In addition to ramping up weapons production, the Russian military continues to violate international law. Read more about the latest crimes committed by Russian soldiers against Ukrainian prisoners of war, including cynical executions carried out on camera: [Russian Military Commits War Crimes Against Ukrainian Prisoners: Cynical Executions on Camera].