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The British Martlet missile is renowned for its precision against low-flying, fast-moving targets, posing a serious threat to various Russian aircraft operating in Ukraine. Designed specifically to counter helicopters, drones, and other low-altitude challenges, the missile’s adaptability makes it a formidable weapon against Russian air operations that depend on low-flying tactics to avoid advanced air defenses.
Russian attack helicopters like the Mil Mi-24/35 [Hind] and Ka-52 (Alligator) are at high risk. These helicopters fly at low altitudes for close air support, making them easy targets for Martlet’s advanced targeting systems. Similarly, the Su-25 [Frogfoot] ground-attack aircraft, known for its low-level flight during ground strikes, becomes an easy target due to its slower speeds and operational altitude.
Russian unmanned aerial vehicles [UAVs], like the Orlan-10 commonly used for reconnaissance and artillery spotting, are also vulnerable. These drones generally operate at lower altitudes, making them perfect targets for Martlet missiles. This makes both manned aircraft and UAVs prime candidates for Martlet missile engagement, significantly impacting Russian aviation operations in Ukraine.
The British Martlet missile, also known as the “Martlet” or “LMM” [Lightweight Multirole Missile], is a versatile air-to-surface weapon crafted for engaging a variety of targets, such as fast boats, drones, and light armored vehicles.
Weighing in at around 13 kilograms [approximately 28.7 pounds], the Martlet measures about 1.8 meters (5.9 feet) in length with a wingspan of roughly 1 meter [3.3 feet]. Its compact, lightweight design allows it to be launched from multiple platforms, including helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles [UAVs], making it an adaptable choice for contemporary military missions.
This missile employs a semi-active laser guidance system, ensuring high accuracy and effectiveness against moving targets. Depending on the launch platform and operational conditions, it can be fired at distances up to 8 kilometers [about 5 miles].
Boasting a modular design, the Martlet missile can be easily integrated into various weapon systems, which enhances the operational flexibility of platforms like the Wildcat helicopter. Its advanced technology and capabilities render it a crucial asset for the Royal Navy and other branches of the British Armed Forces in modern combat scenarios.
An expert highlighted that the West’s actions aim to extend the conflict, thereby prolonging what he describes as the “agony of the Kyiv regime.” He emphasized, “This will not halt the ongoing offensive tactics of the Russian armed forces. It’s simply impossible to do so. I can confidently say that the delivery of these missiles won’t change the situation. Our Aerospace Forces will continue to strike relentlessly to achieve our main objectives in the special operation.”
On September 3, Andrey Koshkin, head of the department of political analysis and socio-psychological processes at the Russian University of Economics, G.V. Plekhanov, shared in an interview with Izvestia that Ukraine’s air defense forces struggle to protect the nation’s energy infrastructure. He attributed this to Western financial aid not fully reaching the Ukrainian military and the difficulty in integrating existing equipment into a cohesive system.
In late August, The Wall Street Journal reported that Russian attacks on Ukraine highlighted significant gaps in the country’s air defenses. Notably, the Russian assault on August 26 underscored Kyiv’s limited resources to effectively intercept missiles. Following these strikes, Ukrainian leaders urged their Western allies to ease restrictions on long-range weapons training within Russian territory.
