Ukraine Develops Homegrown Glide Bomb to Reduce Dependence on Foreign Weapons

Ukraine is acquiring a new glide bomb named the Vyrivniuvach, or 'Equalizer,' which aims to enhance its military capabilities by allowing pilots to strike Russian forces from a greater distance. The bomb was developed by Ukrainian company DG Industry with support from Brave1, a government-backed defense technology group. A Ukrainian military official confirmed that the bomb has completed testing and is being procured for the armed forces. Previously, Ukraine's air force relied heavily on U.S.-supplied JDAM-ER bomb kits and other foreign munitions for precision strikes. The Equalizer is designed to be deployed from MiG-29, Su-24, and Su-27 aircraft, potentially allowing for attacks from safer distances beyond Russian air defenses. Brave1 indicated that the bomb could also be adapted for use with donated F-16 and Mirage fighter jets, pending further certification. Despite its advancements, the Equalizer does not fully eliminate Ukraine's reliance on foreign supply chains, as some components are sourced from abroad. The weapon's development comes amid intensified Russian aerial assaults, with reports indicating that Russian forces dropped over 8,300 guided bombs in July alone. Ukrainian officials continue to seek additional air-defense support from the U.S. and European allies, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy noting that while the U.S. has committed to sending Patriot missiles, the quantities remain insufficient.