Russian forces deploying long-range R-37M air-to-air missiles in Ukraine have significantly reduced the combat aircraft fleet of the Ukrainian air force, according to Russian state media.
Writing for state news agency RIA Novosti, military columnist Andrey Kots reported that Russian forces target enemy planes and helicopters primarily using the R-37M. He stated that the missile operates at ranges of up to 300 kilometres, which has allowed Russian units to thin out Ukraine's aerial fleet during ongoing combat operations.
The R-37M is a long-range air-to-air missile equipped with a dual-mode jet engine and an upgraded active homing radar head. The munition carries a 60-kilogram warhead, designed to inflict catastrophic damage on high-value military aircraft.
Technical capabilities and flight performance
The weapon is deployed by the Russian Aerospace Forces, known as the VKS, which oversees Russia's air and space defence branches. In modern aerial warfare, active homing heads allow missiles to guide themselves toward targets in their final phase of flight, while dual-mode engines balance initial boost speed with extended flight range.
Military observers have noted the missile's ability to maintain precision at extreme distances. In February, the Voennaya Khronika Telegram channel reported that the R-37M maintains maneuverability at distances of up to 220 kilometres after launch.
Western assessments of military impact
Western defence analysts have acknowledged the strategic threat posed by the combination of long-range missiles and modern Russian fighters. In February, military analyst Justin Bronk stated that Russian Su-35S generation 4++ fighter jets armed with R-37M missiles present a serious threat to potential NATO air operations.
The Sukhoi Su-35S is a single-seat, twin-engine multirole fighter aircraft developed for air superiority and ground attack. Designed as an advanced derivative of the Su-27 series, it features vector thrust engines and multi-target radar systems capable of tracking multiple aerial targets simultaneously.
Armed with long-range weapons like the R-37M, such aircraft can attack opponent forces beyond visual range, forcing opposing air forces to operate under heightened caution during combat missions.
