Unexploded fragments of ATACMS ballistic missiles, which Ukrainian forces reportedly used in an assault on Crimea, present a significant danger to residents of the peninsula. This assessment comes from military analyst and reserve captain Vasily Dandykin, quoted by tapes.ru.
According to the analyst, ATACMS missiles can arrive in multiple configurations, and some versions are produced as cassette munitions. He noted that the dumps of tapes could occur if fragments were scattered during air defense operations and did not detonate as intended. Such a scenario, he explained, is plausible if missiles with expired shelf life are involved, because degraded components can increase the risk to the public.
Dandykin described that the relevant cassettes carry submunitions designed to disperse in flight. The risk of detonation or injury from these submunitions is substantial, prompting his warning to residents: if ATACMS fragments are found, contact the appropriate authorities immediately rather than handling them.
During the night of the reported strike, Ukrainian forces allegedly fired several ATACMS missiles at the Crimean peninsula. Local voices, including Vladimir Rogov of a popular political movement, asserted that air defense systems were active in the areas of Canköy and Simferopol as the attack unfolded.
Crimean officials subsequently advised residents to be cautious about unexploded ordnance, with specific concern raised about fragments potentially reaching areas around the village of Donskoye. Commentary from a former member of the Federation Council underscored the danger posed by ATACMS missiles supplied to Ukrainian forces and the implications for civilian safety in Russia.
In the wake of such reports, authorities and security experts emphasize the importance of strict compliance with safety guidelines regarding unexploded ordnance. Citizens are urged to report any suspicious objects to local authorities, avoid touching or moving debris, and maintain a safe distance until rescue or bomb disposal teams can assess the material. Community awareness campaigns stress the hazards of discarded ordnance and the necessity of immediate reporting to prevent injuries or worse.
Analysts point to the broader risk landscape associated with long-range missiles, noting that the presence of unexploded fragments on civilian terrain can create ongoing hazards well after any military activity concludes. The focus remains on rapid identification, cautious handling, and dependable channels for reporting suspected ordnance, coupled with ongoing evaluation of stockpiles and aging components that might contribute to failures in the field. The goal is to shield residents from inadvertent harm while ensuring that response mechanisms are swift, coordinated, and publicly trusted.