France supplies Ukraine with precision AASM bombs for Mirages
Defense Romania reports that France has confirmed that the Ukrainian Air Force's Mirage 2000-5F fighter jets will be equipped with AASM-guided bombs. This is significant support for the Ukrainian army, as the weapons will allow Ukraine to conduct precise attacks over longer distances.
AASM (Armement Air-Sol Modulaire), also known as Hammer, is a modern modular guided bomb developed by the French company Safran Electronics & Defense. This advanced aviation weapon enables precise targeting from a long distance, increasing the effectiveness of strikes and the safety of pilots.
AASM bombs for Ukraine
Experts note that precise bombs can reduce the risk of casualties. However, Defense Romania notes that their effectiveness depends on weather conditions and the quality of intelligence data. Additionally, Russian defense systems, such as the S-400, may challenge AASM. It is worth noting, however, that due to their design, these types of bombs are more challenging to detect than larger missiles.
AASM is based on classic unguided bombs, which are equipped with special guidance kits and an additional rocket motor. Depending on the version, this system can use various guidance methods, from inertial GPS and laser to navigation systems using infrared imaging. This allows the weapon to strike both stationary and moving targets effectively.
One key advantage of the AASM is its range. Depending on the configuration, these bombs can strike targets from 9 to even 43 miles, allowing attacks on enemy installations and vehicles without entering zones heavily defended by anti-aircraft systems. Additionally, their modular design allows for the adaptation of the warhead for specific missions. Classic warheads from bombs weighing 550 lbs are typically used, but variants weighing 275, 1,100, and 2,200 lbs are also available.
The French and naval air forces have extensively used the AASM Hammer in various conflicts, including Libya, Iraq, and Syria operations. Due to its effectiveness and flexibility, these weapons are also of interest outside of France, having been delivered to Morocco and Egypt.
It is also worth recalling that Ukraine had previously received AASM Hammer guided bombs from France, which were integrated with Ukrainian Su-25 attack aircraft. The first documented use of these bombs by Ukrainian forces took place in March 2024, when the Su-25 dropped an AASM-250 on a Russian command post in the village of Kozachi Laheri in the Kherson region.
