Storm Shadow is first missile to test real capabilities of Russian air defense – military expert Zgurets

Serhiy Zgurets, military expert, Defense Express CEO, shared his opinions with Espreso TV.

Zgurets noted that Storm Shadow missiles, unlike conventional drones, can bend the terrain and fly at low altitudes, which will complicate the situation for Russia.

"When we talk about Storm Shadow, this is the first cruise missile that will now test the real capabilities of Russian air defense. But let's remember how ordinary slow drones loaded with explosives that fly to Russian targets penetrate the enemy's territory. From May 1 to May 10, 53 attacks were launched against Russian targets on the territory of the Russian Federation using unmanned systems. When we talk about Storm Shadow, which can bend the terrain and fly at low altitude, it means that the enemy needs to significantly strengthen its air defense with the means they are currently critically lacking. In addition, Storm Shadow struck Syria, where there were Russian S-400 systems and air defense systems, and these missiles performed their task even when Russians tried to cover their base with S-400 systems," he said.

• The UK has confirmed the delivery of long-range Storm Shadow missiles to Ukraine. They will provide the Ukrainian Armed Forces with a new strike capability ahead of a counteroffensive.

• Valeriy Riabykh, a military expert at Defense Express, noted that according to preliminary estimates, about 10 Storm Shadow missiles will be able to cut Russia’s communications across the Kerch Bridge.