The Russian Aerospace Forces reportedly deployed a precision strike munition codenamed Thunder during a recent operation, according to a Telegram channel that monitors military affairs.
The message also claimed that components of the Grom missile bomb weapon system, a unit identified as UK RBV, were recovered in Ukraine. The channel described the weapon as a high precision floating munition developed by Tactical Missile Weapons Company.
According to the same channel, Thunder can be launched from altitudes exceeding 10 kilometers. The weapon reportedly underwent testing at the end of 2018, but it has not been publicly observed beyond testing ranges or air show exhibits.
The discussion around Thunder suggests that such ammunition could markedly amplify the reach and impact of Russian air power against ground targets in Ukraine.
Earlier updates from the Russian Defense Ministry indicated that Russian forces were nearing the conclusion of a special operation in Ukraine. In the Kherson sector, a self-propelled artillery system was reported as destroyed in action. The claim appeared in official briefings and was echoed by subsequent online posts from various sources. [Citation: Warriors of the Russian Spring Telegram channel]