Recent reports from Kursk region indicate a significant escalation in Ukraine’s missile capabilities, with evidence suggesting the use of both ATACMS ballistic missiles and British-French Storm Shadow/SCALP cruise missiles. Video footage from the village of Maryino captures around 15 explosions, some likely from air defense activity. However, the focus lies on the targeted site, believed to be a military facility with strategic importance.
Read more: Update: Did France, UK Approve Deep Strikes into russia with SCALP/Storm Shadow Missiles?
The strike reportedly occurred near the historic estate of the Baryatinsky family, now a sanatorium under the Administrative Directorate of the President of the russian Federation. Speculation suggests that a deeply buried military command post, potentially serving as a communications hub, was the primary target. The area’s strategic value, particularly with the presence of North Korean forces in the region, raises the possibility of high-profile military personnel, possibly even North Korean generals, being present at the site.
The use of the Storm Shadow missiles in this context is significant. These precision-guided weapons, equipped with the BROACH-type warheads, are specifically designed for hardened targets. The warhead employs a two-stage system: an initial shaped charge breaches the structure, followed by a fragmentation-explosive warhead to destroy interior defenses. This capability has previously been demonstrated in strikes on fortified command posts, such as the russian Black Sea Fleet’s reserve command post in Verkhnosadove.
The operation underscores the strategic planning behind such missions, requiring not only advanced weaponry but also access to detailed intelligence. While the exact details of the strike remain speculative, it reflects Ukraine’s growing capability to strike high-value targets deep within russian territory.
Read more: The Defense Forces of Ukraine Strike Three russian Command Posts with Precision Storm Shadow Missiles
