Fact Check: "One Ukrainian glide bomb costs approximately 25,000 dollars."
What We Know
The claim that a Ukrainian glide bomb costs approximately $25,000 is supported by various sources discussing the costs associated with glide bombs used in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. According to a report by the BBC, Russian glide bombs are produced at a low cost due to their construction from existing Soviet-era bombs with added guidance systems, with estimates placing their cost between $20,000 and $30,000. This suggests that similar Ukrainian glide bombs, which are designed to counter these Russian munitions, might be in the same price range.
Moreover, a report from Forbes corroborates this cost estimate, stating that glide bombs are inexpensive for precision munitions, with costs around $25,000. This aligns with the context of the ongoing military strategies employed by both Ukrainian and Russian forces, where cost-effective solutions are crucial.
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim about the cost of glide bombs is derived from credible sources that analyze military technology and the specifics of the Ukraine conflict. The BBC article provides a detailed overview of the production and impact of glide bombs, emphasizing their low cost and high effectiveness in warfare. The source is reputable, known for its journalistic integrity and thorough reporting.
The Forbes article also adds credibility to the claim by providing a direct cost estimate for glide bombs while contextualizing their use in the battlefield. Both sources are reliable and offer insights from military experts, which enhances the validity of the cost estimates presented.
However, it is important to note that while the claim is based on the costs of glide bombs, it does not specify which particular model or variant of the glide bomb is being referenced. The Ukrainian military is developing its own glide bombs, which may have different production costs compared to Russian variants. The Trench Art article mentions that Ukraine is working on a KAB-clone glide bomb, indicating that the cost could vary based on the specific design and production capabilities.
Conclusion
The claim that "one Ukrainian glide bomb costs approximately 25,000 dollars" is Partially True. The cost estimates of $20,000 to $30,000 for glide bombs are substantiated by credible sources, but the specific price point of $25,000 may not universally apply to all Ukrainian glide bombs, particularly as they develop their own variants. The variability in production costs and the evolving nature of military technology mean that while the claim holds some truth, it lacks specificity regarding the exact models being referenced.
Sources
- Ukraine war: Russia's lethal glide bombs hitting Ukraine's cities - BBC
- Ukraine Has Its Own 'Miracle Weapon'—A Cheap, Hard-to-Jam Glide Bomb
- Ukraine Unveils Its Own "KAB" Glide Bombs—Finally Hits Back at Russian Tactics
- Ukrainian KAB, an Analog of UMPK, Already Undergoing Flight Tests but Needs Funding to Speed Up Development
- Ukraine builds its own guided bomb that reaches 60 km (video)
- Ukraine Is Jamming Russian Glide Bombs All Along The Front Line
