Ukrainian Drones Destroy Rare Smerch Battery in Luhansk

(LUHANSK OBLAST, UKRAINE) – Ukrainian long range bomber drones have destroyed a rare BM-30 Smerch multiple launch rocket system battery in Luhansk oblast, striking targets deep behind Russian forward positions, according to footage released by the Lazarev Group, a Ukrainian military unit.

The operation destroyed one BM-30 Smerch launcher, one Slepok-1 automated fire control system, and one transport and reloading vehicle. A second BM-30 Smerch launcher was reported damaged but not destroyed.

The video footage, which the Ukrainian unit said showed a deep strike operation, indicates the use of a Baba Yaga type heavy bomber drone. Analysts suggest the strike may have employed artificial intelligence assisted targeting.

The BM-30 Smerch is a 300 mm calibre MLRS system that fires 12 rockets. Unlike precision systems such as HIMARS, the Smerch is designed to saturate concentrated areas including artillery batteries, troop concentrations and ammunition depots. Its maximum range is between 120 km and 200 km depending on the variant, meaning these systems are typically deployed far behind front lines, making them harder to detect, engage and destroy.

Russia maintains approximately 100 Smerch systems in service, significantly fewer than other MLRS platforms such as the Grad or Uragan. According to open source tracking, only six Smerch launchers and two loader vehicles had previously been documented as destroyed.

The geolocation of the strike was not disclosed beyond Luhansk oblast, the eastern front region towards the north of the country. The Ukrainian unit that released the footage described the engagement as a deep strike, indicating the targets were positioned considerably behind Russian forward defensive lines.