In A First, Ukraine Attacks Russia with French Supplied AASM "Hammer" Guided Bombs

Footage shows guided munitions deployed in multiple precision strike missions
  • Defensemirror.com bureau
  • 10:45 AM, January 2, 2025
  • 2053
In A First, Ukraine Attacks Russia with French Supplied AASM
Ukrainian Su-25 armed with AASM Hammer guided bomb

Ukraine's Air Force has, for the first time, released footage of Su-25 Frogfoot jets deploying French-supplied AASM "Hammer" guided bombs against Russian targets.

The video, shared by the 299th Tactical Aviation Brigade, reveals at least ten strike missions using the AASM, a weapon that combines precision with extended-range capabilities.

The AASM "Hammer" guided bombs were introduced to Ukraine's arsenal in June 2024 due to the depletion of Soviet-era unguided munitions and dwindling stocks of Western alternatives. The bombs, equipped with a solid-fuel rocket motor, allow aircraft to engage targets at stand-off ranges of over 70 km when launched from higher altitudes. They can also operate effectively at lower altitudes, where range is enhanced by a loft maneuver, as demonstrated in the recent footage.

The video, reportedly recorded by an under-wing action camera, showcases Su-25s performing low-altitude pop-up attacks to release two 250-kg AASM bombs. The Su-25 is one of the Soviet-era platforms Ukraine has adapted to use Western weaponry, alongside the MiG-29 and Su-27.

According to Serhii Holubtsov, Chief of Aviation for Ukraine's Air Force, the adaptation process for Su-25s ensures compatibility with modern precision munitions. "Our Su-25 aircraft are upgraded to use these guided bombs effectively," Holubtsov stated, emphasizing their operational utility.

In A First, Ukraine Attacks Russia with French Supplied AASM
Hammer missile @Safran

The AASM is a modular guidance and propulsion kit compatible with various bomb sizes. It comes in three guidance variants, integrating inertial, GPS, laser, and infrared systems for enhanced accuracy. First deployed by Ukrainian forces in early 2024, the weapon was initially used by MiG-29 and Su-27 jets. Its integration with Soviet-era platforms reflects Ukraine's strategy of maximizing its existing fleet while awaiting F-16 fighters.

The French government committed to providing 600 AASM kits to Ukraine in 2024, delivering 50 units monthly. Safran, the manufacturer, increased production to 90 kits per month to meet growing demand. The munition has been effectively integrated into French and Western aircraft, including the Rafale and Mirage 2000.

While the AASM is expected to be compatible with the F-16 fighters being delivered to Ukraine, its integration with Soviet platforms underscores the adaptability of the weapon system. French officials indicated ongoing efforts to integrate the AASM with F-16s before their deployment. Future deliveries of Mirage 2000-5 fighters, announced by French President Emmanuel Macron, may further expand Ukraine's capability to employ these guided bombs.

The introduction of the AASM reflects ongoing challenges in maintaining sufficient munitions stocks. The Zuni 5-inch Folding-Fin Aircraft Rocket, another Western munition used by Su-25s since 2023, has reportedly seen its reserves depleted. Ukrainian forces continue to adapt to these shortages by integrating alternative precision munitions like the AASM.

Ukraine is also reportedly running out of Storm Shadow and Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missiles.

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