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Ukrainian Aircrew Targets Russian Positions with Unguided Rockets
Published 1 years ago
Cockpit footage released by Ukrainian pilots shows the utilization of unguided rockets to hit what is allegedly a Russian convoy on the move into the Donetsk region.
The technique you're seeing in this video has been heavily documented by both the Ukrainian and Russian rotary wing aircrews in the on-going conflict in Ukraine. The way that this works is the target is first identified by a forward observation team. That team can be a reconnaissance unit operating forward of the lines, or more likely a drone flying over the target area, either way the end state is the same, and an eight to ten digit grid is provided to the aircrew.
The aircrew then sets up a heading that aligns with the target on a map, and they utilize simple mathematics and geometry with the known maximum effective range of their rockets to volley them towards the target when they reach a specific point of their flight path.
This is by no means an entirely accurate way of conducting this type of air support, however it's the best that either side can manage at the moment due to the extreme threat of man portable air defense systems. Due to the MANPAD threat, neither side can effectively or safely fly combat operations over enemy controlled territory without their being an extreme risk to the aircraft and aircrew.
About the Author
Josh Brooks
Josh is an American writer and former USMC machine gunner with eight years of experience in ground combat arms throughout the GWOT. He is currently based in Texas and specializes in combat footage analysis and digital marketing.Follow Josh at OfficialJoshBrooks.com