ISW: Russians reduce aerial bombardment, air strikes After shooting down the Su-34

Russian forces are reportedly decreasing aviation activity and their use of glide bombs in Ukraine after Ukrainian forces shot down three Russian Su-34s in southern Ukraine between December 21 and 22. 

Ukrainian Air Force Spokesperson Col. Yuriy Ihnat stated on December 24 that Russian forces decreased their use of glide bombs and air strikes in southern Ukraine, Caliber.Az reports, citing a report by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

According to Ukrainian military observer Konstantin Mashovets, Russian forces are limiting their use of manned aviation near occupied Crimea, particularly in the northwestern Black Sea region.

ISW previously assessed that Russian forces may have recently intensified their use of glide bombs against Ukrainian forces on the west (right) bank of the Dnipro River in part because Ukrainian forces reportedly suppressed Russian long-range artillery in the area.

“Continued decreased Russian glide bomb strikes in Kherson Oblast may present an opportunity for Ukrainian forces to operate more freely in near rear areas on the west bank of Kherson Oblast and establish a safer position on the east (left) bank from which to conduct future operations if the Ukrainian high command so chose.

Russian forces reportedly use glide bomb strikes so that Russian aircraft can remain 50 to 70 kilometres behind the line of combat engagement, and the decreased Russian use of glide bombs suggests that Russian forces are concerned about Ukrainian air defence capabilities following recent losses,” the ISW report reads.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian Ground Forces Spokesperson Lt. Col. Volodymyr Fityo stated on December 23 that Russian forces also reduced their use of aviation and increased their use of strike drones in the Kupyansk and Bakhmut directions.