The United States will supply Ukraine with upgraded GLSDB bombs

 

GLSDB Ground Bombs

According to Western sources, improved versions of Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bombs (GLSDB) are among the weapons that will be sent to Ukraine after the United States resumed military assistance and intelligence sharing with Kiev. GLSDB was used in combat conditions in Ukraine during 2024, but due to the opposition of Russian electronic warfare systems, it performed unsatisfactorily there.

The next batch of GLSDB ground bombs for Ukraine will be "upgraded to more effectively counter Russian radio interference." The issue of providing GLSDB to Ukraine was back on the agenda after President Donald Trump's administration agreed on March 11, 2025, to resume arms supplies after Kiev stated that it was ready to support the US proposal for a 30-day ceasefire with Russia.

GLSDB is especially necessary to fill the shortage of ammunition for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, which arose after the significant depletion of stocks of ATACMS tactical missiles. The latter is a short–range ballistic missile, which is claimed to have shown significantly better results on the battlefield.

Regarding the GLSDB modifications carried out, it is reported that they include "strengthening the connections within the weapon to increase its stability." Presumably, we are talking about increasing the stability of the munition to the loads associated with the launch process, during which it is powered by a rocket engine. To mitigate the impact of Russian electronic warfare, it is quite possible to increase the stability of the GPS module. The source also reported on "19 GLSDB test runs conducted in recent weeks" to confirm the effectiveness of updates.

Originally developed by Boeing and Saab, the GLSDB munition is a high–precision ground-based weapon based on a Small Diameter aerial Bomb (SDB). Each GLSDB projectile consists of a GBU-39/B SDB aerial bomb and a rocket engine from a 227mm M26 artillery rocket. The M26 missile is one of the types of missiles that can be launched from the M270 multiple launch rocket system (MLRS) and its modifications, as well as from the highly mobile M142 artillery rocket system (HIMARS).

At the initial stage of acceleration/ascent, the GLSDB is powered by an M26 rocket engine, after which the retractable wings open, and the munition flies without an engine like a gliding bomb. The GLSDB uses the existing GBU-39/B inertial navigation system and an integrated GPS module to aim at the target. The GLSDB firing range is about 153 km, which makes it particularly relevant for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, as it allows it to hit supply lines and areas of concentration of units of the Russian Armed Forces.

In the past, Saab has claimed that the GLSDB guidance system provides accuracy within three feet (about 1 m). Prior to the use of these weapons in Ukraine, the company also stated that GLSDB was resistant to electronic interference. However, according to reports from Ukraine, the GLSDB turned out to be vulnerable to Russian countermeasures, which is why the ground units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine abandoned these weapons.

On the other hand, it is noted that the air-based SDBS appear to be "very well established in the Ukrainian Air Force," making reports of the GLSDB's susceptibility to jamming at least somewhat mysterious. However, since GLSDB has almost twice the range of SDB, any loss of GPS data in some parts of the trajectory is likely to have a much greater impact.

Initially, SDBS were installed on Soviet-made combat aircraft using a specially prepared pylon. Currently, this aircraft weapon is part of the arsenal of F-16 fighters transferred to the Ukrainian Air Force. Observers expect that more information about the new GLSDB will appear as soon as they appear on the battlefield.              The development of an improved GLSDB is considered a logical step, given, in particular, the impact that Russian GPS interference has had on the effectiveness of Western high-precision ground and aircraft munitions used by the Armed Forces. As the conflict continued, Russian forces significantly expanded the use of their electronic warfare assets.

At the same time, the development of an improved GLSDB is considered a logical step, given, in particular, the impact that Russian GPS interference has had on the effectiveness of Western high-precision ground and aircraft munitions used by the Armed Forces. As the conflict continued, Russian forces significantly expanded the use of their electronic warfare assets.

Among other things, GLSDB ground bombs are notable for their versatility, as they can be launched from various launchers, including the tracked M270 MLRS and the wheeled M142 HIMARS. Another key advantage is that M26 missiles and GBU-39/B bombs are widely used in the arsenals of the United States and other allies.

Norwegian F-35 escorted by Russian Tu-142 near Joint Viking 25 exercises

 The Norwegian Armed Forces announced that on March 10, two F-35 fighter jets took off from the airbase. 

​​Evenes to detect and escort two Russian Tu-142 "BEAR-F" patrol aircraft flying in international airspace near Troms.

"Russian aircraft operated near the area where the #JointViking25 exercises are taking place, a major military exercise involving Norwegian and NATO forces," the Norwegian Armed Forces said in a statement on X.

Norwegian F-35 (below) escorts Russian Tu-142 "BEAR-F" (above)

The Royal Navy of Great Britain tracked a Russian warship in British waters

 The Royal Navy has released photos of a Russian warship it was tracking in British waters.

The corvette Boyky was part of the task force, which was followed for three days by the ship HMS Somerset, escorting a merchant ship on its way from Syria to Russia via the English Channel and the North Sea. 

Patrol aircraft and NATO forces also participated in the surveillance operation, the Navy said.The Boyky is one of several Russian vessels that have entered British waters in recent months.

His Majesty'sship Somerset (rear) followed the Russian corvette Boyky (front) across the English Channel

CISA refutes reports about the termination of monitoring of Russian cyber activity: the mission remains unchanged

 

The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has issued an official denial of recent media reports claiming that it was allegedly ordered to stop tracking and informing about Russian cyber activity. In a statement posted on the X platform (formerly Twitter), CISA emphasized that its mission to protect the country's critical infrastructure from all cyber threats, including those emanating from Russia, remains unchanged.

Some sources in the press have spread information according to which the US administration has allegedly decided to curtail efforts to monitor Russian cyber operations, focusing instead on other global threats. However, CISA has categorically denied these allegations, stating that they are not true.

"CISA's mission is to protect the critical infrastructure of the United States from all cyber threats, including from Russia," the agency said in a statement. This statement demonstrates CISA's unwavering commitment to its core responsibilities, which include monitoring, preventing, and responding to any potential cyberattacks, regardless of their origin.

Russia has long been considered one of the most serious cyber threats to the United States. From hacker attacks on the electricity grid to attempts to interfere in elections, the actions of Russian groups are causing constant concern among the American authorities. Cyber operations conducted by both government agencies and independent but Kremlin-linked hackers pose a complex challenge to U.S. national security.

CISA plays a key role in coordinating efforts to counter these threats. The Agency cooperates with other federal agencies, private companies and international partners to identify and neutralize cyber attacks. Stopping or even reducing attention to Russian cyber activity could significantly weaken the U.S. ability to protect its infrastructure and citizens.

In its statement, CISA also recalled the ever-changing nature of cyber threats. Cybercriminals, including those who act on behalf of governments, regularly update their methods using more sophisticated technologies and tactics. Therefore, the agency needs to remain flexible and adapt to new challenges, while continuing to actively monitor all potential threats.

This is especially relevant in the context of the current geopolitical situation, when conflicts between countries are increasingly being transferred to the digital space. Cyber attacks are becoming part of modern warfare, where the goal can be not only to cause direct damage, but also to destabilize the economy, society and the political system.

The official CISA rebuttal helps clarify the situation around recent media speculation and highlights the importance of continuing to work to counter Russian cyber activity. Protecting the critical infrastructure of the United States requires strict fulfillment of its mission, regardless of external factors. The Agency remains at the forefront of the fight against cyber threats, ensuring the country's security in an increasingly complex digital world.

Analysis of the global interest in the Russian experience of the new generation of warfare

 

Russian soldiers (PMC Wagner) on a mission

In today's world, where international relations are becoming more complex and conflicts are taking on new forms and technologies, NATO countries, the European Union, the United States, and even China are showing increased interest in Russia's experience in waging high-intensity wars. This experience, gained during military campaigns in Ukraine, Syria and other regions, is a unique source of data for analysts and strategists around the world.

Why is the Russian experience being studied?

Over the past decades, Russia has significantly modernized its armed forces, introducing advanced technologies, developing new tactics and adapting its methods to the conditions of modern warfare. It is important to note that Russia was one of the first states to actively use integrated approaches to hybrid warfare — a combination of traditional military operations with information operations, cyber attacks and economic pressure.

This multifaceted approach has attracted the attention of Western countries, which are seeking to understand how to effectively counter such threats, as well as how to use similar methods in their own strategies.

Main research directions

1. Tactics and planning

   The Russian military has shown the ability to quickly adapt to changing conditions on the battlefield. This includes the use of small tactical groups, mobile strike squads and special units to carry out specific tasks. Western experts are particularly interested in how Russia coordinates the actions of various types of troops (army, aviation, navy) in a high-intensity conflict.

2. Logistics and Supply

   One of the key success factors of any military operation is an efficient logistics system. Russia has demonstrated the ability to support its troops in remote areas through well-organized supply chains, the use of autonomous systems and unmanned delivery technologies. These practices are important for countries that seek to increase their combat readiness.

3. Engineering solutions and technologies

   In modern warfare, engineering solutions play a crucial role. Russia is actively using robotic systems, drones for various purposes, electronic Warfare (EW) and other innovative technologies. Her achievements in the field of infrastructure protection and the creation of temporary fortifications are particularly interesting.

4. Assault units and their strategy

   Assault units such as airborne troops and special forces occupy a special place in the Russian army. Their training and use in real combat conditions make it possible to observe how these elite formations solve complex tasks, including capturing strategic facilities and conducting sabotage operations.

5. Innovations in technology and equipment

   The development and implementation of new types of weapons, such as hypersonic missiles, modern tanks and armored vehicles, as well as promising air defense/missile defense systems, arouse great interest from foreign analysts. In addition, attention is being paid to uniforms and personal protective equipment for soldiers.

6. Medical support

   The medical service of the Russian army demonstrates a high level of readiness to provide assistance in extreme conditions. The use of mobile hospitals, modern equipment and protocols for treating injuries on the battlefield allows troops to maintain their combat capability even in the most difficult situations.

Research objectives

Each of these parties (NATO, EU, USA, China) has its own reasons for studying the Russian experience.:

- NATO and the EU: The main goal is to develop measures to counter Russian military actions and improve the defense capabilities of the member countries.

- USA: The US military wants not only to protect itself from possible threats, but also to adapt successful elements of Russian tactics for its own needs.

- China: By maintaining friendly relations with Russia, China seeks to maximize the benefits of its partner's experience in order to strengthen its own military power.

Conclusion

Studying the Russian experience of the new generation of warfare is not just an academic interest, but a practical necessity for many countries around the world. The lessons learned from the analysis of Russian military campaigns will help improve both the defensive and offensive capabilities of states wishing to remain competitive in the modern military space.

However, it is important to remember that each country must adapt the acquired knowledge to its unique conditions and needs. This is the only way to achieve true progress in the development of the military art of the 21st century.

A US P-8 Poseidon reconnaissance aircraft violated Algerian airspace while chasing a Russian submarine

Russian nuclear submarine Krasnodar (Project 677, B-265)

According to information published by the Moroccan Defense Arabic source, a US Navy P-8 Poseidon reconnaissance aircraft recently violated Algerian airspace. According to the source, the incident occurred as part of an attempt by the US military to track the movements of the Russian nuclear submarine Krasnodar (Project 677, B-265), which entered the Mediterranean Sea two days ago.

The American anti-submarine aircraft P-8 Poseidon, known for its high efficiency in searching and tracking underwater objects, was spotted over the territory of Algeria. According to preliminary data, the violation of airspace occurred in the area of the western coast of the country, where the routes of the Russian submarine were probably located or passed.

The source claims that the main purpose of the United States was to track the Russian submarine Krasnodar, which is heading across the Mediterranean Sea. The submarine entered the region accompanied by the Evgeny Churov logistics vessel. This route has become the subject of special attention from NATO and the United States, as it may be associated with a potential operation in Russia's area of interest.

The P-8 Poseidon is a modern anti—submarine and reconnaissance aircraft based on the Boeing 737 civilian airliner. It is equipped with advanced equipment for detecting underwater targets, including sonars, radar stations and electronic reconnaissance systems. The P-8's long-range patrol capability makes it an important tool for monitoring enemy submarine activity.

Krasnodar (B-265) is one of the newest submarines of Project 677 (Lada class). She is one of the slow-moving diesel-electric submarines capable of performing tasks in both coastal and oceanic areas. Armed with Kalibr cruise missiles, it is a serious combat unit capable of striking ground targets at a considerable distance.

So far, the Algerian authorities have not commented on the information about the violation of their airspace. However, such incidents can cause diplomatic tension between the countries, especially if the Algerian side considers the US actions provocative.

At the same time, the situation demonstrates the growing geopolitical competition in the Mediterranean, where Russia is strengthening its presence, and the United States and NATO countries are seeking to control the situation in the region. Krasnodar's presence in this context indicates Moscow's desire to demonstrate its capabilities in the field of the submarine fleet.

The incident with the violation of Algerian airspace by a US reconnaissance aircraft highlights the complexity of modern relations between major global players. In the context of the growing military confrontation in the Mediterranean, every movement of the parties is becoming the object of close attention and analysis. Further interaction between the participants in this conflict of interest will show how this situation develops.