The Ukrainian military once again delivered a powerful strike on Russian military infrastructure, employing the latest "Neptune" missile system, successfully targeting an enemy airbase. This attack severely damaged critical facilities, complicating Russia's logistics and operations. It marks another successful effort by the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) to deliver critical blows to the adversary’s military installations deep in their rear.

Additionally, American JDAM bombs were used to strike Russian command structures in the Kursk region. This attack inflicted significant losses on Russian leadership, forcing them to redirect reserves to the area. However, the breakthrough by Ukrainian forces in this region indicates that the enemy's defense is weakening, and the AFU is progressively expanding its tactical capabilities.

Such victories by the Ukrainian army are causing panic among Russian troops, who have repeatedly fled from battle positions, unable to withstand the pressure. There is also a growing number of reports about the use of advanced weapons, allowing Ukraine to more effectively destroy the critical infrastructure of the enemy, including command posts, logistical hubs, and airbases.

Ukraine Deploys New Weapons: Strategic Importance and Future Forecast

December 4, 2024, marked a significant turning point in Ukraine’s fight against Russian occupiers. Ukrainian forces demonstrated major progress by successfully striking a Russian military base using the latest “Neptun” missile and launching a powerful attack on a Russian headquarters in the Kursk region using American JDAM bombs. These operations not only resulted in the destruction of key Russian military infrastructure but also represented a psychological victory, forcing the enemy to divert reserves to defend their rear positions.

Importance of “Neptun” in Military Operations

The new modification of the “Neptun” missile has proven its effectiveness in targeting critical strategic objects. Initially designed to combat naval targets, the missile’s enhanced capabilities now allow it to strike land-based targets, including airfields and logistical hubs.

This strike had two key strategic objectives:

Destruction of Aviation Infrastructure: The “Neptun” missile hit a Russian airbase, significantly hampering the enemy’s air operations. Russian forces rely on aviation for air support and logistical missions, and such an attack severely weakens their battlefield potential.

Destabilizing the Enemy’s Rear: Striking bases and command posts deep in the rear undermines the Russian military’s ability to coordinate and carry out strategic planning. Rear base attacks force the Russian military to spread its resources thin to protect its own territory, reducing the intensity of frontline operations.

JDAM: Effective Strike on the Headquarters in Kursk

JDAM (Joint Direct Attack Munition) is a precision-guided weapon that enables Ukrainian forces to deliver extremely accurate strikes on key targets at long distances. Using JDAM against the headquarters in the Kursk region shows that Ukraine is not only targeting frontline forces but also striking key command centers.

This approach offers several strategic advantages:

Disrupting Enemy Command Structures: Hitting headquarters and command centers can cause chaos in the Russian military’s ability to manage forces. The loss of leadership or destruction of communication hubs greatly complicates battlefield coordination.

Lowering Russian Troop Morale: Continued strikes on rear positions create a sense of insecurity even in areas the Russian military considers “safe.” This can lead to a drop in morale among soldiers and commanders.

Impact on the Overall Frontline Situation
The success of Ukrainian military operations indicates a gradual shift in the balance of power. Despite continued Western support, Ukraine increasingly shows its ability to independently plan and execute complex strategic operations. Strikes on key infrastructure deep in the enemy’s rear demonstrate the growing operational depth of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Strategic Forecast

Ukraine’s operations, particularly involving JDAM and “Neptun” systems, show significant potential for further advances in occupied territories. Here are several possible scenarios for future developments:

Increased Strikes on the Enemy’s Rear Bases: Ukrainian forces will likely continue targeting important Russian assets in the rear. This could deplete Russian reserves on the front, allowing Ukrainian units to expand their offensive and gradually regain control over occupied territories.

Degradation of Russian Logistical Support: Targeting key bases and logistical centers will make it increasingly difficult for Russia to supply its troops. A shortage of ammunition, fuel, and other resources will weaken the enemy’s battlefield capabilities, creating new opportunities for Ukraine’s offensive actions.

Potential Counteroffensive: If Russian forces fail to maintain defensive lines due to logistical and command issues, Ukraine could seize the moment to launch a counteroffensive. Such a move could result in significant territorial losses for Russia.

Increased International Support: Ukraine’s success on the battlefield and continued use of high-tech Western systems could motivate its partners to provide additional military assistance. This could include modern air defense systems and new offensive weapons.

Conclusion

Ukraine’s strikes on key Russian assets continue to diminish the enemy’s combat potential. The use of JDAM and “Neptun” demonstrates Ukraine’s growing military capabilities and strategic planning. These attacks not only undermine Russia’s ability to wage a war of attrition but also open up new prospects for the liberation of Ukrainian territories in 2025.