A Small Bomber Making a Big Impact in the War Against Russia

A Small Bomber Making a Big Impact

the Backfire drone. This small, fixed-wing aircraft acts as a bomber, striking Russian targets deep behind enemy lines.

The Backfire, developed by Ukrainian company Zli Ptakhy, offers a solution to carry out deep-strike missions without compromising payload capacity. This is particularly crucial as Ukraine lacked long-range missiles at the war's outset.

Both Zli Ptakhy representatives and Ukrainian soldiers using the Backfire have praised its effectiveness. They highlight its range, explosive power, and durability as key advantages.

The Backfire's development was a collaborative effort between Ukraine's military and defense industry, aiming to create a weapon capable of penetrating deep behind enemy lines. Since its introduction in 2023, the drone has undergone continuous improvement based on battlefield feedback.

With a cost of around $20,000, the Backfire boasts a range of roughly 90 miles and a cruising speed of around 60 mph. It can carry a payload of over 12 pounds, including mortars, grenades, or mines, and can operate at altitudes between 150 and 1,000 feet.

The drone's flexibility allows for various mission types. It can "carpet bomb" Russian positions, drop remotely detonated mines, or carry out other tasks as needed.

One unit using the Backfire, known as the "Birds of Fury," operates in the Kherson region, flying the drone across the Dnipro River into Russian-held territory. Their aim is to catch the enemy off guard with unexpected strikes.

The Backfire's reusability and ease of repair make it a cost-effective and efficient weapon. However, it faces challenges similar to other drones, including electronic warfare and air defenses. This has prompted developers to explore new tactics and technological solutions to overcome these obstacles.

Despite these challenges, the Backfire remains a valuable asset for Ukraine's military. The country continues to invest in drone production, aiming to enhance the Backfire's capabilities and develop even more advanced unmanned aerial vehicles.